noun

slang

SLANG

noun

Very informal words and phrases not used in standard, formal speech or writing.

"Teenagers invent new slang faster than dictionaries can keep up."

"He peppered his speech with British slang after a year living in London."

The specialized vocabulary of a particular group or profession.

"Doctors use their own slang that can baffle patients."

How to Use Slang

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCasual, non-standard vocabulary used within everyday speech or by a specific group.

When to use it

Slang is informal by definition and generally avoided in formal writing.

Common pairings

internet slang street slang slang term

Word Forms

slanged past tense, slanged past tense, slangs plural, slangs plural, slangs plural, slangs singular, slangs singular

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Teenagers invent new _____ faster than dictionaries can keep up.

Etymology

First recorded around 1756 meaning the special vocabulary of tramps or thieves; its deeper origin is uncertain, though it may come from a Scandinavian source related to words meaning "to sling" or "to fling."

Synonyms

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vernacular jargon lingo cant

Related Words

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Rhymes for slang

Ang hang rang sang bang yang pang dang fang gang tang nang

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