Meaning & Definition of word "Slang"

Slang

/slæŋ/

1. A type of informal language that includes words and phrases that are specific to a particular group, culture, or context.
- Example: Teenagers often use slang to communicate in a way that feels unique to their generation.
2. Vocabulary that is characteristic of a particular group and may not be understood by the general public.
- Example: In the gaming community, terms like 'noob' and 'gg' are common pieces of slang.
3. An informal, nonstandard variety of language.
- Example: The use of slang can vary widely from one region to another, making language rich and diverse.
4. Words or phrases that are often playful or exaggerated.
- Example: He used a lot of slang in his speech, which made it more entertaining.
5. Language that uses metaphor or other figurative language to express a thought.
- Example: The poet used slang to capture the voice of the streets in a way that felt authentic.

The word 'slang' is believed to have originated in the late 18th century, possibly from the language of thieves, with uncertain roots.

hit the sack:

to go to bed

bail someone out:

to help someone out of a difficult situation

spill the beans:

to reveal a secret

colloquial:

characteristic of informal spoken language or conversation.

dialect:

a particular form of a language peculiar to a specific region or social group.

idiom:

a group of words whose meaning is different from the meanings of the individual words.

Meaning: Lit

Example Sentence: That party was lit!

Meaning: Ghost

Example Sentence: I think he's ghosting me; he hasn't replied in days.