gangster vs. gangsta

gangster

noun

  1. a member of a gang of criminals, especially a racketeer in an organized crime syndicate.

    Synonyms: goon, hood, thug, crook, hoodlum, mobster

gangsta

noun

  1. a member of an urban street gang.

    He was a true gangsta, and he fought like a soldier for his turf.

    Synonyms: cholo, homie, homeboy, thug

  2. gangsta rap.

adjective

  1. of or characteristic of urban street gangs, their members, or gangsta rap.

    There was no hiding his prison record or his gangsta tattoos from potential employers.