slang

¹ American  

[slang] / slæŋ /

noun

1. very informal usage in vocabulary and idiom that is characteristically more metaphorical, playful, elliptical, vivid, and ephemeral than ordinary language, as Hit the road.

2. (in English and some other languages) speech and writing characterized by the use of vulgar and socially taboo vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.

3. the jargon of a particular class, profession, etc.

4. the special vocabulary of thieves, vagabonds, etc.; argot.

   Synonyms:

   cant

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verb (used without object)

1. to use slang or abusive language.

verb (used with object)

1. to assail with abusive language.

slang ² American  

[slang] / slæŋ /

verb

Nonstandard.

1. simple past tense of sling.

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slang British  

/ slæŋ /

noun

1. 1. vocabulary, idiom, etc, that is not appropriate to the standard form of a language or to formal contexts, may be restricted as to social status or distribution, and is characteristically more metaphorical and transitory than standard language

   2. ( as modifier )

      a slang word

2. another word for jargon 1

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verb

1. to abuse (someone) with vituperative language; insult

slang Cultural  

1. Expressions that do not belong to standard written English. For example, “flipping out” is slang for “losing one's mind” or “losing one's temper.” Slang expressions are usually inappropriate in formal speech or writing. (See jargon.)

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Usage

See informal.

Other Word Forms

• slangily adverb
• slanginess noun
• slangy adjective

Etymology

Origin of slang

First recorded in 1750–60; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

In modern slang it’s ghosting, or merely ducking out.

From The Wall Street Journal

While Legoland has other coasters, many are known as what Storer refers to as “pink knuckle” coasters, slang for safe for kids and families.

From Los Angeles Times

Department of Homeland Security officials repeatedly have expressed alarm about the potential for agents to be “doxxed,” a slang term for revealing a person’s private information online.

From Los Angeles Times

"I bit my tongue. There was no need to get into a slanging match... but obviously it cut deep and I remember it."

From BBC

“Doxing” is a slang term for revealing a person’s private information online.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• argot
• jargon
• lingo
• patois
• vernacular