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

Instead, Lee says that students are more interested in addressing course engagement and rigor—particularly in courses called “gems,” which is Harvard slang for classes that offer a light workload and lenient grading.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Our Gravedigger speaks to us, and to the moon, about her heart’s desire in charming cockney rhyming slang.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

To describe the phenomenon, he used the slang word "glazing" -- to excessively praise something.

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

His decision has stirred discussion on social media, where some have called Macron "kéké", which is French slang for a show-off.

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2026

The room had fallen vacuum-quiet, with me running my mouth a mile a minute, talking nothing but slang.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Related Words

• argot
• jargon
• lingo
• patois
• vernacular