Slang evolution: If you like it, slang it

By Tracy Gesare | 8yrs ago | 3 min read

Language is a constant evolution and with the way new words are popping up, one gets surprised we are not speaking a completely different language by now.

FOMO: This is basically the ‘fear of missing out’. It comes from the anxiety that something more interesting would be happening elsewhere other than where you are and you could be missing out just from the hype you are seeing on social media (Snapchat and other live feeds). Extroverts live for this.

JOMO: ‘Joy of missing out’, the opposite of FOMO. Often used when people enjoy things and take in the moment they are in as it is and not broadcast them on social media or go on the hilltops to show off that they are having fun. Also could be used when you are not interested in joining the squad for a plan and choose to do something quiet by yourself. This would be an introvert’s best word ever.

Tea: This is not about milk or any hot beverage in a mug, it is a decent word for gossip. And if the story is huge then we say “I have major tea for you.” I would say this is a female preferred vocabulary but the men these days are bigger gossips. Look around.

Saucy: this is in reference to a fine lady with class and pizzazz in all aspects. Great body, informed, well spoken, well-mannered and a little bit of attitude. Not your usual or average ‘Yes’ lady.

Woke: staying and being woke means being informed of what goes on in your surroundings and community that you live in or the world at large. Life is not a Math class, get informed and know a thing or two about what’s going on around you. This could also be about the things you choose to involve yourself in, don’t just follow blindly, be knowledgeable, stay woke!

Obi: if you ever hear someone say “the Obi” please don’t ask what that is. It is short for Nairobi. So yes, you are from the Obi and if you ever leave you stay true and represent “the Obi”.

Manterrupting: When someone, a man, rudely interrupts you when speaking about female or generally gender-related issues.

Hangry: A condition that surfaces when you are too hungry that it makes you moody, grumpy and even angry. This tends to bring lashing out or overreaction. This is usually curable with just eating, even better having the food that you are craving for at that moment. Bropocalypse: Usually a larger than usual gathering of men that intends to have a men-only mission to do fun things like getting drunk. Men are known to be uncomfortable with each other, hence the reference to an apocalypse.

Ink: a tattoo, inked- getting a tattoo.

Steez: the act of going about something fun. Can be substituted for “tingz”.