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The Ultimate Cruise Lingo Glossary – 85 Terms You Need to Know

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Cruise vocabulary, jargon or lingo – if you’re going on a cruise, you’ll want to be familiar with the cruise terminology

Are you getting ready for your first cruise? Through the planning process, you may have noticed that there’s a whole world of cruise vocabulary, nautical terms or “cruise lingo”.

This handy glossary of cruise terminology includes some of the new terms and acronyms used in the cruise industry today. These are some of the most common cruise phrases and words you’ll be hearing as you plan your cruise, as well as when you board your cruise ship.

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A Cruise Lingo Tip You Must Know

Before we get started, here’s the most important piece of advice I can give you, when it comes to talking like a cruise pro.

Don’t call a cruise ship a boat.

Cruisers might have different opinions about which cruise lines are the best, cruise line dress codes , and the do’s and don’ts of cruise gratuities , but there’s one thing all cruisers agree on…

Don’t call a cruise ship a boat. Trust me on this 😉

About Cruise Lingo and Cruise Lifestyle

Cruising is a lifestyle unto it’s own, and cruisers really do have their own lingo and cruise terminology. Nautical terms are often used, and cruisers love it!

New cruisers can be left scratching their heads.

Words and acronyms such as Aft, Muster drill, Starboard, OBC and MDR, may seem like a mysterious cruise language. However, in this cruise lingo glossary, I’ll go over all the cruise jargon need to know.

You’ll be chatting like a seasoned cruiser in no time!

Cruise ship vocabulary

You’re on a ship, not a boat. A boat fits inside a ship, and not the other way around. Fellow cruisers won’t hesitate to correct you sternly if you get this wrong.

Try and get used to this one quickly,  just trust me on this…

Below you can hear Celebrity Cruises Captain Kate , explaining this point in her navigational report.

Your room is called a cabin. While hotels have rooms, ships have cabins.

3. Stateroom

Sometimes a cruise cabin will be referred to as a stateroom.

Your cruise ship will have many decks. While hotels refer to floors, cruise-ships refer to decks.

5. The bridge

The bridge is the navigational hub of the ship.

The person in command of the ship.

7. Cruise Director

Think Julie McCoy :-). Your cruise director, among other duties, will act as Emcee, heading up most major entertainment events on the ship. On larger ships you’ll see assistant cruise directors and other activities staff also leading main activities.

8. Itinerary

Your cruise itinerary refers to each destination/cruise port of call you’ll be visiting.

9. Port of departure

This is the port from which your cruise will depart (ie. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Vancouver, Barcelona etc.)

10. Cruise terminal

Just like airplanes have airports, cruise ships have cruise terminals or cruise ports. There are safety and boarding procedures to be aware of.

Recommended:   11 Cruise Boarding Tips You Need to Know

11. Ports of call

You probably remember this one from “The Love Boat”. I know I do! This is individual destination where you will stop at for the day. Examples of cruise ports or ports of call on a Caribbean cruise include Cozumel , St. Thomas , Grand Cayman and so on.

12. Shore excursion

This is an organized activity you may choose to do when in a port. You can book a shore excursion through your cruise line or on your own with a private vendor or tour company. Examples include a snorkeling or sightseeing excursion.

A cruise ship will usually arrive at a large dock when it arrives at the cruise port.

There are some cruise ports where cruise ships cannot access the land directly and dock, due to coral reefs and other reasons. In these cases your ship will tender a few minutes away from the port, and shuttle passengers in by tender boats.

As an example, Grand Cayman is a tender port at this time, but it looks like a new dock will be built in a couple years.

15. Stabilizers

Modern cruise ships have stabilizers to keep motion to a minimum.

The ship’s anchor is impressive. Along with the chain, the anchor holds to the sea bed to keep the ship from drifting at sea.

The super large kitchen where literally tons of food is cooked and prepared. You can actually do a galley tour while on your cruise if you’re interested.

18. Dry dock

When a cruise ship goes into dry dock, it’can be to receive routine maintenance, or to be refurbished. the ship can be out of service for weeks or longer.

19. Charter

Groups will sometimes charter a cruise ship, to host a special event.

Cruise Ship Terminology – understanding common areas of the cruise ship

The atrium is a large central public area usually spanning 3 or more decks. Often very beautiful, it will be the central hub of the ship’s interior.

21. Port side

The left side of the ship, as you face forward, is referred to as port side .

Tip: An easy way to remember – LEFT has 4 letters and so does PORT

22. Starboard side

The right side of the ship as you face forward is the Starboard side.

23. Forward

The front section of the ship.

The back section of the ship is called the aft. The aft or wake view is a favorite for many cruisers.

25. Purser’s desk

These days, the purser’s desk is often referred to as guest or passenger services. However many avid cruisers enjoy the nautical language and will continue to use the term “purser’s desk”. Usually this is located in the atrium.

26. Mid-ship

Generally said in reference to the preferred cabin location . Most cruise passengers will prefer a mid-ship cabin, rather than one that is forward or aft. This area has an advantage of having more stability in general.

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Cruise Cabin Terminology

When booking a cruise, you’ll notice that there are several different stateroom options. Below are the most common cabin options.

27. Interior staterooms

Inside or interior cabins are staterooms which include all the basics, however do not have a window.

Related:  15 Best Tips for Cruising in an Inside Cabin: cabin organization and more

28. Oceanview Cabins

Cabins with a window or porthole are ocean view cabins.

29. Balcony cabins

Balcony cabins , sometimes referred to as Veranda cabins, include a private outdoor space outside your cabin.

Related:   7 Best Reasons to Book a Balcony Cabin

30. Guarantee cabin (GTY)

This refers to an unassigned cabin any type of cabin (inside, ocean view, balcony) . The cruise line will assign the cabin at any point before the cruise.

Often, guarantee cabins will be priced lower, so this can be a great value if you’re not picky about the location of your cabin.

31. Pullman bed

If you have more than 2 passengers in your cabin, you may have pullman beds for 3rd and 4th passengers. They are like bunk beds that come out of the wall or ceiling. They will be tucked back into the ceiling or wall during the day if you like.

32. Double occupancy

The cruise fare will be based on double occupancy as a standard, and this is what you will see as an advertised price.

33. Single occupancy

When cruising solo, most of the time you’ll be paying a single occupancy rate, which can be almost the cost of 2 people in a cabin (you won’t pay taxes twice).

34. Solo cabins – Studio cabins

If you’re cruising solo, look for cruise ships that have studio cabins intended for solo travelers.

35. Triple and Quad Cabins

Some cabins can accomodate 3, 4 or more passengers in one cabin, referred to as triple or quad cabins. These are most popular with young families cruising together .

Read next:   Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Back to the Cruise Ship

36. Deck plan

A map of all the cruise ship decks.

37. Lido deck

The Lido Deck is the public pool deck, often on one of the top decks of the cruise ship. There may be more than one pool, hot tub and outdoor seating.

38. Gangway

The gangway is elevated walkway you will use to board your ship, usually covered, but not always.

The very front of the ship.

The very back of the ship.

The beautiful white trail of waves visible at the very back of the ship. My favorite spot on the ship to realx and take it all in. Please let me know in the comments if this is your favorite as well – if not, where is?

Cruise Lingo you need to know for the first day of your cruise and beyond

42.   Embarkation day

The first day of your cruise and the best day in a cruiser’s life 😉

Recommended reading to prepare for your cruise embarkation day – 25 Cruise Embarkation Day Tips Straight from the Pros

43. Muster drill

The muster drill is a mandatory safety drill which is done prior to sailing. Note, it’s not “mustard” drill, as you just may hear from other passengers.

44. Muster station

Your assigned emergency meeting location. You’ll likely meet here for your muster drill, but don’t worry, cruise ship crew will help to guide you.

45. Daily planner

Different cruise lines use different terms for their daily newsletter of information scheduled activities (Cruise Compass, Princess Patters, Today, Freestyle Daily). Many cruise lines now have this information available on their app.

46. Sailaway

The period of time that your Cruise Ship actually sails away from the shore. Often there will be a Sailaway party on the top deck, however some cruisers enjoy it from their own balcony.

47. Sailaway Party

Check your daily planner for information. Generally the Sailaway party will be at the main pool and will include some drinks, a DJ or band playing and some dancing.

48. Sea day

A day at sea is when your cruise ship is not visiting a port, but sea days aren’t boring ! There will be plenty of activities to choose from if you don’t want to simply relax by a pool.

49. Cruise Card

On most cruise ships, you’ll be given a cruise card which will act as your room key, ID and your method of payment when on your cruise.

50. Ocean Medallion

Ocean Medallion is a relatively new cruise ship technology available on Princess Cruises . Instead of a cruise card, the medallion serves like a cruise card, but also does much more.

You can read about our recent Ocean Medallion experience here .

51. Room steward or cabin attendant

Sometimes mistakenly called a room “Stuart”, the person who cleans your room twice a day (amazing!) and really takes care of you and your cabin mates is called a room steward or a cabin attendant.

52. Dress code

Cruise lines have suggested dress codes , ranging from very casual to more formal.

53. Formal night 

A tradition on many cruise ships, the formal night is a night to dress up. Check your cruise line’s dress codes for suggestions. Some cruise lines have relaxed the dress codes a bit, including Celebrity Cruises which now has Evening Chic , rather than formal.

54. Early dining and late dining

Early and late dining are basically a first and second seating, which some cruise lines with an option of assigned dining will have. This is for a main dining room and not a buffet.

55. Open dining

Open dining is offered on many cruise ships. In some cases, a cruise line will offer both open and set dining. It can go by different terminology including Anytime Dining on Princess , My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean, Select Dining on Celebrity .

To note, some cruise lines offer only open dining, such as Norwegian Cruise Line which is Freestyle dining.

56. Specialty restaurants

This usually refers to the dining in an alternative restaurant that is not included in your cruise fare and is often a more intimate or higher culinary experience. An example of this would be Celebrity Cruises Tuscan Grille .

57. All Aboard

The ship will leave your ports of call promptly. All aboard time is generally set for 30 minutes before your cruise is scheduled to leave the port of call. Do verify the all aboard time before heading off for an excursion in the cruise port.

All joking aside, there are people at cruise ports every year – and you don’t want it to be you.

58. Towel animals

You just may find towel animals in your cruise cabin. These are the super cute towel creations made by your room steward, available on some cruise lines (usually family orientated ones).

We’ve had many years of enjoyment when our kids were young, even miss them a little bit these days.

59. Pier runners: This is an unofficial name given to those (who may have had too many libations) who can be seen running in the last few minutes hoping not to miss the ship’s departure. It is quite entertaining!

60. Roll call

A roll call may be set up for your cruise by yourself or other cruise passengers. Basically, this is a group of people who chat online before a cruise, and may have some gatherings set up once on board.

Read more:   5 Reasons Why You Should Join a Cruise Roll Call

61. Disembarkation

The saddest day in a cruiser’s life is the day that you need to disembark and the cruise is over.

Wondering about how disembarkation day really works?   21 Cruise Disembarkation Tips You Need to Know

62. Onboard booking

Booking your next cruise on board can give you some awesome benefits and is one of the best kept secrets for saving money while booking a cruise . For those that book with travel agents, don’t worry, the future cruise consultant will transfer it to the agency (request if they don’t offer).

Tip: Check to make sure about the terms and conditions and find out if future cruise deposits are refundable if that’s important to you.

Booking a cruise – terms to know

63. Cruise fare

This is the base cost of the cruise, per person

64. Deposit and Final Payment

When you book a cruise, if you’ve booked early you’ll be making a deposit which will secure your booking. As you get closer to sailing (usually about 70-90 days pre cruise), your final payment will be due.

Terms and conditions may be different on various cruise lines, however the details will be on your own reservation.

65. Cruise contract

When booking a cruise, you’ll be agreeing to a cruise contract. The cruise contract includes the terms and conditions that cruise passengers agree to.

66. Online check-in

Before your cruise, passengers are asked to complete an online check in and print out cruise documents to sail.

67. Gratuities

Gratuities or tipping is customary on a cruise. A per person service fee or gratuity will be charged daily to your cabin, on most major cruise lines.

Recommended:   Cruise Tipping Guidelines and Etiquette

68. Prepaid gratuities

When booking your cruise, you can prepay your gratuities , and avoid thinking about additional expenses on a cruise .

69. Lanyard

A lanyard might be used by cruisers to hang a cruise card around the next for convenience. This is one of the most popular cruise accessories in our list of travel essentials .

70. Rum Runners

A type of container used to conceal alcohol brought on a cruise, that isn’t allowed. For more on other items that are prohibited, read this next:  33 Banned Items You Can’t Bring on a Cruise 

Recommended:   10 Things NOT to pack for a cruise

Cruise Start Up Terms

Along with some major changes on cruise ships, we have seen new cruise line policies the have resulted in more cruise lingo – more words and explanations we just don’t know.

71. Cruise with Confidence

The major cruise lines introduced a flexible cruise cancellation policy, during this time, should people decide to cancel a cruise up to 48 hours pre-cruise. When cancelling, in most cases passengers will receive a credit which can be used towards a future cruise.

There are some terms and conditions to be aware of, so always read the fine print.

72. Muster 2.0

A new technology that would allow muster drills to be done using a new app, rather than in a large gathering. Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises came out with this new technology as cruises resume. Several cruise lines are using a form of emuster as well.

The Cruise Line International Association is the world’s largest cruise industry trade association. It represents the major cruise lines, which have suspended cruises leaving from the United States until the end of October .

74. No Sail Order

A no sail order was put into effect by the CDC in March 2020. For cruises to resume, it was imperative that the CDC lift the no sail order . This is lifted and cruisers have resumed with strict guidelines for safety and health.

75. Warm lay up and cold lay up

As cruises are suspended, we hear the terms “warm and cold lay up” of cruise ships.

Warm lay up refers to when a cruise ship has reduced levels of crew onboard, and costs for fuel and other items are reduced. However, the cruise ship is kept in a condition as to be able to be brought back to service relatively quickly.

A cold lay up is a prolonged period of time when the cruise ship is shut down as much as possible to reduce cost. It takes longer for ships to be brought back to service and is a more complicated process.

76. NEW Safety and health protocols

The cruise lines have adopted new safety and health protocols to ensure safe cruising for passengers and crew.

Cruise Lingo Acronyms

It’s quite common to hear people who cruise a lot speak using these acronyms. You may even see these abbreviations in cruise facebook groups and pages, or on cruise forums .

Here is an explanation of the most common cruise acronyms, so you’ll be fluent in cruise lingo of all sorts.

Main Dining Room

On board credit – extra cash credit on your cruise account that you can use on the ship for most purchases. Sometimes this is added as a promotion by the cruise line or your travel agent.

This refers to a back to back cruise, meaning one cruise and then another cruise one after the other. Some cruisers may even do a B2B2B (3 cruises in a row)

The abbreviation for a guarantee cabin (see above in cruise lingo glossary)

Future Cruise Credit – when booking a future cruise onboard

A TA is short for travel agent

Avid Cruiser Lingo

83. Cruisebug

After a first cruiser, it’s not uncommon for a new cruiser to love it so much that they feel an immediate calling to book again and cruise more often. Often, this is referred to as catching the cruisebug.

84. Cruise addict

It’s said that cruising is the healthiest addiction and a vice many are happy to have! If you’ve cruised and now you’re constantly on the lookout for all the cruise info you can find and really just want to book cruises, congrats! You are now a cruise addict!

85. Cruiseaholic

Another word for someone who is addicted to cruising!

Recommended:   30 Best Gifts for Cruisers (that are unique too!)

86. Thallosphile (n)

A lover of the sea , someone who loves the sea, ocean.

87. Post-cruise blues

So, the post-cruise blues is real! One possible remedy is booking another cruise when onboard, but it’s still tough to leave that amazing cruise ship life!

Do you suffer from Post-Cruise Depression?

How To Know if You Have Post-Cruise Depression (a fun read)

*Ultimate Cruise Travel Planner*

Over the last year, I put together a 47 page cruise travel planner that has everything you need as you plan and get ready for your cruise.

If you could use cruise packing lists, to-do checklists, shore excursion forms and more, you’ll love the Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner .

Plus, for a limited time, it’s $10 off. Hope you enjoy!

See details here: Ultimate Cruise Planner -What’s Included

Related and Popular Posts:

Port Side or Starboard Side on a Cruise: Which Side is Best?

37 Interesting Cruise Ship Facts that Will Surprise You

50 Most Popular Amazon Cruise Essentials

25 Cruise Embarkation Day Tips You Need to Know

75 Genius Cruise Hacks and Tips

23 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Worst Cabins to Avoid on a Cruise

Recap: Cruise Lingo Glossary – 85 Cruise Terms You Need to Know

In this post, we went over 85 cruise terms that are important to know when you’re booking a cruise, as well as when you’re on a cruise ship. This list of “cruise lingo” should help to navigate the world of cruise language.

If you’re a new cruiser I hope the information has been helpful. If you’re a seasoned cruiser, I hope it was a fun read!

Is there a cruise term that you think should be added? Please let me know by leaving a comment below.

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you’ve enjoyed this, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-)! Please share it with a friend, on Facebook or save for later on Pinterest. Thanks so much!

Let’s connect:

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20 Comments

You missed out Rum Runners. Those cheapskates that think its clever to smuggle on alcohol rather than buy on board in various containers. This may be a Carnival thing but its creeping on the better lines.

You’re right – I completely forgot that one and it’s now totally in the cruise lexicon, right? For better or for worse, lol!

I’ll add it in. Thanks for taking the time to comment :-)!!

by the way what happens to the “Rum Runners” when caught?

Hmmmm,good question. I actually have heard that any alcohol will simply be confiscated, but I’ve never used them so I can’t say for sure.

I love the drinks on board, so I just drink those 🙂

Thanks for taking the time to comment Lebo.

I really like your blog/page. The information in it is very good. I am a member of the Princess Cruise forum and what I have done is when I have come across something interesting or information I didn’t know I take notes on it. That’s how I’ve learned many of the items here. I would add TA – which is travel agent may seem too simple But I see TA all the time. I liked your comment about if you don’t know something ask a fellow cruise passenger or staff person on board. Since I am a solo travelor that really helped me. I would also add to tips for new cruisers is to be respectful of their fellow travelors and also all staff they encounter onboard (which includes room stewards, wait staff and everyone else they encounter).

Hi Charles,

Great points! TA is one I overlooked and you are so right. I agree completely with respect for passengers and crew – I hope most are.

I really appreciate you reading my blog and taking the time to leave a comment!

All the best,

This is great, but I would have liked a short, printable list, as well.

Glad the list was helpful. Thanks for your suggestion as well. This may be something that I’ll work on doing in the future.

I love your cruise blog. I have the cruise bug bad. PCD is bad in me on disembarkation day. I have only cruised with NCL and when onboard I buy as many CruiseNext Deals as I can. Many times you buy one and get on free, and on balcony and higher you can use two. To me free money off my cruise. NCL has past guest deals and when on bourd I book it. Thus even getting a better deal. I will triple dip looking for a past guest and a Latitudes Reward program. Earn point for every cruise night, Point for Suite, point booking 9 mounts in advance, and point for a Latitudes insider offer. Next cruise I will earn many points per day. That gives you free laundry, free dinners, free bottles of wine at dinner, and hopefully one day a free cruise… I would like to do a B2B2B. Do you have to get off the ship? Only word I would add is RESPECT. Respect yourself not making a scene if something not right. For you are the lesser for it. Hopefully one day we will meet up on a cruise ship. Your friend Russell

Thanks Russell for your kind words and your great tips! I have the same sentiments on disembarkation day – it’s the worst :-(.

For a B2B, you do have to get off the ship (although I hear sometimes not if customs come on), but it’s a pretty good process as passengers are grouped together and passed through quickly.

Would be great to meet you on a cruise one day!

Yes a printable list of the terms would be very helpful. Tyvm for your time to help fellow cruisers!!

Thanks Deborah for your comment. I’ll definitely look into creating one, especially since it’s been suggested a couple of times.

Best to you,

We too had a stressful private tour in Turkey, going to Ephesus. We made it back by the skin of our teeth, but the traffic on he way back through Izmir was heavy and slow. All your tips about not being a pier runner are very apt! Thank you. Jim and Norita Nickerson

Hi Jim & Norita,

Wow I would have been stressed as well. We loved Ephesus but did a morning tour only so were back early. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Not only do I find your newsletters fun AND helpful but ditto your You Tube videos. I have been addicted to cruising since 1959. Wish I could afford to feed my addiction more frequently. Going on an 11 day Caribbean cruise on Rotterdam VII in December.

Thanks so much Jim! I’m so glad that you enjoy my emails and videos & appreciate you taking the time to comment.

Don’t we all just wish we could cruise a little more? Your Caribbean cruise sounds absolutely amazing – enjoy every minute!

I enjoy your work … 2 more often overlooked terms: bunkering and along-side … bunkering of course is the re-fueling process … along-side is the captain’s term for bringing a ship to a full stop at a future pier (“we’re expected to be along-side at 7 am in Fort Lauderdale”) …

Thanks for sharing these!

Hey, Ilana! I love your blog and your YouTube videos. Post cruise depression is real. I got sad today because I used the last bit of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash that I brought home from a Viking cruise in October/November of 2023. I have several cruises coming up and always looking up itineraries to see what is out there. 🙂

I hear you! It definitely helps to have future cruises on the horizon!

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131 top British slang words, expressions & meanings to learn

Karolina Assi

Have you ever watched a British TV show and struggled to understand what the characters were saying? If so, you probably wondered why you couldn’t understand anything if you usually have no trouble understanding movies and TV shows in English.

Here’s the answer to that question that might have been bothering you for a while: although the characters were speaking English, they were likely speaking a different version of it.

You see, the British English you likely know from famous movie stars like Hugh Grant and Jude Law is the standard British accent commonly spoken in London and southeast England. But it’s not the only British accent or dialect there is.

In this article, we’ll go over the regional dialects of British English and British slang terms you might want to know.

The origins of British slang

The roots of British slang can be traced back through centuries, influenced by historical events and cultural interactions.

During the Middle Ages, British English absorbed words from Norman French, while the expansion of the British Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries introduced vocabulary from colonies and trading partners. Industrialization and urbanization in the 19th and 20th centuries contributed to slang development, as cities like London and Manchester became melting pots of diverse cultures.

Today, technology and popular culture play a significant role, with the internet and social media accelerating the spread of slang terms.

Regional variations of British slang and their meanings

Pretty much every English speaker can identify the charming, heavy British English accent. Yet not many people outside of the United Kingdom know that there are actually almost 40 different accents across the UK.

You may have heard of a few, like Cockney, Scottish, or Welsh, but what about Geordie, Scouse, or Brummie? Spoiler alert: Brummie is spoken by Tom Shady in Peaky Blinders.

Aside from the accent, regional variations of British English also include different slang words used in different regions of the UK. Here are some of the UK’s regional dialects with their most common slang words and phrases.

The Queen’s English

The standard British accent everyone knows is the Queen’s English, BBC English, or Received Pronunciation (RP). RP is a term coined by phonetician Daniel Jones. Back in the 1900s, RP was the accent taught to upper and middle-class boarding school boys in southern England.

It later became more widely spread until it became “Standard English” in the late 19th century and became, and still is, associated with people of high social standing. It’s also the easiest of all regional dialects to understand, which is why it’s used by news stations and heard in movies like Pride and Prejudice or Downtown Abbey.

The Queen’s English is spoken in London and Southern England. Here are some of the most common slang words and phrases used by people from those regions.

Cockney is a very characteristic accent spoken in the East End of London, which originated from the working class Londoners.

The term "Cockney" historically referred specifically to someone born within earshot of the ringing of the Bow Bells at the church of St Mary-le-Bow in the Cheapside district of London. Over time, Cockney has come to represent a broader cultural and linguistic identity associated with this area.

Cockney slang often involves replacing a word with a rhyming phrase, where the rhyming part (the second word) is typically dropped in usage, leaving just the first word as the slang term.

Yes, it’s… well, confusing. But back in the day, this rhyming slang served as a form of coded language among working-class communities, allowing them to communicate discreetly in public spaces or among outsiders.

Here are some of the most common Cockney slang words and phrases.

If you’ve ever been to Newcastle upon Tyne, you probably had great trouble understanding people. No wonder! Geordie, the regional dialect spoken in Newcastle and the Tyneside region, is one of the hardest British dialects to understand.

Geordie is filled with unique words, phrases, and pronunciations that might leave you scratching your head in confusion, even if you're a native English speaker. For instance, you might hear someone saying "gan doon" instead of "go down" or "howay" instead of "come on."

But it's not just the words themselves that can be tricky. It's also the accent and pronunciation. Geordies often drop consonants or change vowel sounds in ways that can throw off even the most seasoned English speaker.

Here are some of the most common Geordie slang words and phrases.

If you’ve ever been to Liverpool, you know that its dialect is one of the heaviest and most distinctive British English accents. If you haven’t been to Liverpool, you may still be familiar with the Scouse accent thanks to the Beatles.

Scouse can be hard to understand even for native speakers, as its roots lie in various influences, including Irish, Welsh, and Lancashire dialects. Scouse speakers often speak extremely fast, blending words together and dropping consonants, which can make it challenging to decipher for those unfamiliar with it.

Here are some of the most common Scouse slang words and phrases.

Have you ever heard of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch? Yes, it’s one of the longest words in English , with 58 letters, and it’s the name of a small town in Wales.

It's quite the tongue-twister, isn't it? It should give you a pretty good idea of the Welsh dialect, which is full of consonant clusters like "ll" and "pwll." Some Welsh words, such as cwtch and "llongyfarchiadau" (congratulations), look like they were written by your cat when it fell asleep on your keyboard.

Luckily for us, nowadays, the inhabitants of Wales speak Welsh English, which is a combination of the old Welsh language and Standard English rather than old Welsh.

Here are some of the most common Welsh slang words and phrases.

If you’ve ever spoken with a Scottish person, you may have struggled to understand what they were saying. That’s because Scottish English is one of the hardest, if not the hardest, accents to understand, even for all other English native speakers.

Scottish English, or the Scots dialect, has 5 main varieties:

• Insular Scots: Spoken in the Shetland and Orkney Islands, influenced by the Norse language.
• Northern Scots: Includes dialects from the Highlands and Aberdeenshire, known for a strong rolling "r" sound and unique vocabulary.
• Central Scots: Found in areas like Edinburgh and Glasgow, widely recognized and featuring diverse accents shaped by historical and immigration influences.
• Southern Scots: Covers dialects in the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway regions, influenced by English and Scots Gaelic.
• Ulster Scots: Primarily spoken in Northern Ireland, sharing similarities with Scottish English due to historical connections.

Here are some of the most common Scots slang words and phrases.

While Glaswegian is part of the various Scots dialects, it deserves a section of its own because of how particular it is.

Glaswegian is the dialect spoken in Glasgow, which originated from a blend of influences, including Scots Gaelic, Old English, and immigrant languages like Irish and Yiddish.

It’s characteristic due to its rapid speech patterns, frequent consonant dropping, unique vocabulary, intonation, and rich use of slang and colloquialisms. So, don’t worry if you can’t understand a Glaswegian person! You’re certainly not alone.

Here are some of the most common Glaswegian slang words and phrases.

Commonly used British jargon

Now that you can tell apart the different regional dialects in the UK, let’s get down to business. What are the most commonly used words and phrases in British slang?

Here are 20+ expressions used in British jargon you should know to finally understand what all these characters in British TV shows are actually saying so you can understand and speak like a true Brit.

Fun and quirky British lingo

Although the British accent is typically perceived as attractive and charming, British slang can sometimes sound either somewhat aggressive or straight-up funny.

Here are some quirky British lingo expressions that will make you chuckle.

Common slang mistakes to avoid

Here are some common mistakes that non-natives often make when trying to use British slang:

1. Misusing regional slang words

If you're not from the UK, it's easy to assume that all British slang is the same across the country. But the truth is, there are many dialects across the UK, and the slang is different from region to region. Using terms like "trouble and strife" or "apples and pears" might be perfectly understood in some parts of England, but they could leave people scratching their heads in Scotland.

So, take the time to learn about the slang commonly used in the specific region you're in or interacting with. And always ask the locals for clarification if you're unsure!

2. Using slang words in the wrong context

Some slang terms are considered more casual or even rude, so using them in formal settings or with people you don't know well can be off-putting. For example, referring to someone as a "mate" or "bloke" in a professional meeting might come across as overly familiar.

To avoid this mistake, be mindful of the context and tone in which you're using slang. If you’re unsure if it’s appropriate, just don’t use it!

3. Misunderstanding the meaning of some slang words

As a non-native speaker, it’s easy to misunderstand the real meaning behind certain slang expressions. To avoid misunderstandings, take the time to learn about the cultural context and connotations of the slang you're using. Pay attention to how native speakers use these terms and try to use them in the same situations.

Cheers, mate!

Understanding British slang is like deciphering a secret code. It can be hard at first, but once you figure it out, it's the missing key to fitting in.

But keep in mind that slang isn't a one-size-fits-all deal. It varies based on things like age, social group, and context. So, if you're not careful, you might end up saying something out of place or in the wrong context to the wrong group of people.

To avoid awkward silences and confused looks, pay attention to how the locals use slang in different situations. If you're feeling a bit lost, don't be afraid to ask for clarification.

With a basic understanding of the nuances between the regional dialects and a bit of practice, you'll be speaking like a true Brit in no time. If you’re looking for more examples of English slang, you can explore our fun guide to American slang here , learn more about the differences between American English and British English here , or visit our English blog , filled with language, culture, and colloquialisms from around the world. Happy reading!

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Understanding Cruise Words and Lingo To Chat Like a Cruiser

As you start planning your cruise, you’ll quickly realize there’s a world of cruise words to familiarize yourself with. Some cruise ship lingo might be straightforward, but others could have you scratching your head in confusion. Fear not—we’re here to demystify the jargon for you and quiz you for fun.

Soon, you’ll be chatting like a seasoned cruiser, effortlessly tossing around terms like “port” and “starboard,” “aft” and “bow,” along with “gangway” and “lido deck.” You’ll confidently navigate the ship, knowing your “muster station” from your “tender port” with the ease of a seasoned cruiser.

We won’t get into cruise vocabulary you may never need to know or use. We’ll stick to cruise ship terms you’ll find the most useful to understand. For fun, we’ve added a quiz below.

The most important cruise word you should remember is SHIP. It’s a SHIP, NOT a boat.

Table of Contents

Cruise Words and Its Definitions

Fundamental cruise ship lingo you should know from the start.

Let’s start with the basic cruise terms. Familiarize yourself with these keywords to lay the groundwork for your cruise lingo education. You’ll be coming across them frequently as you navigate the planning process.

• Ship: a vessel designed for maritime navigation across oceans and large bodies of water, capable of carrying people and cargo long distances. You can fit boats inside a ship, but not vice versa.
• Bow : The very front of the ship.
• AFT : The rear or back part of the inside of the ship.
• Midship (MID): The middle area of the ship is often used to describe cabin locations.
• Forward (FWD): Refers to the area or direction towards the vessel’s front end.
• Portside : The ship’s left side, facing forward towards the bow.
• Starboard : The right side of the ship when facing forward.
• Port of Call : A port-of-call is a stop a cruise ship makes on its itinerary, where passengers can disembark to explore the destination. Also known as port destination.
• Tender : A small boat transporting passengers from the ship to the shore when the ship cannot dock at the port directly.
• Gangway : The entrance or exit ramp is used by passengers to board or leave the ship.
• Cabin or Stateroom : Your room on the ship can vary from interior rooms without windows to suites with large balconies.
• Sea Day : A day during the cruise when the ship does not dock at a port, allowing guests to enjoy the onboard amenities.
• Shore Excursion : Organized tours or activities in the port cities where the ship docks.
• Deck Plan : A map showing the ship’s layout, including cabins, public areas, and amenities, to help passengers navigate.

• Embarkation : The process of boarding the ship at the beginning of your cruise. You could consider it a happy day because it’s cruise vacation day #1.
• Disembarkation : The saddest day of a cruise vacation. The process of leaving the ship at the end of the cruise.
• Gangway : The entrance or exit ramp passengers use to board or leave the ship, typically when docked at a port.
• Muster Station : Previously defined, this term refers to a designated area where passengers gather during a ship’s emergency drill. Understanding your muster station is crucial for safety.
• Muster Drill : A mandatory exercise for all passengers and crew conducted at the beginning of the voyage to practice emergency procedures.
• Lifeboats : Small boats carried on the ship are used during an emergency evacuation. Knowing how to locate and access lifeboats is essential.
• Life Jackets : Personal flotation devices are provided in each cabin for every passenger. Familiarizing yourself with how to wear it correctly is a key safety measure.
• Cruise Agent : A travel professional or agency specializing in booking cruise vacations.

Other Cruising Terminology and Phrases You’ll Find Yourself Using Rather Quickly

Let’s dive further into some other jargon popular in the cruise world.

• Passenger : That would be you, the cruiser, on a cruise ship.
• Cruiser : Another way to say a passenger on a cruise ship vessel.
• Seasoned Cruiser : Someone with extensive experience taking multiple cruises is familiar with the nuances of cruise travel.
• Cruise Card or Seapass Card: A personalized ID card is given to passengers upon boarding as a room key, onboard payment, and identification for disembarking and reembarking at ports.
• Cabin Category : The classification of staterooms based on size, location, and amenities, from interior cabins to luxury suites.
• Inside Cabin: A windowless cabin on the ship. Usually the most budget-friendly cabin.
• Oceanview (OV): A cabin featuring a window or porthole for ocean views.
• Veranda or Balcony : A private balcony attached to a cabin where you can step outside for ocean views, port views, and fresh salty air.
• Guaranteed Cabin (GTY): Cruise lines offer this booking option for a discounted rate where the passenger secures a cabin within a specific category or type at the time of booking. The exact cabin number is not assigned until closer to the sailing date.
• Freestyle Cruising : A flexible cruising style with no set dining times or seating arrangements and a relaxed dress code. This phrase is synonymous with Norwegian Cruise Line as the originator of freestyle cruising .
• Guest Services or Relations : The ship’s customer service desk is where passengers can inquire about accounts, lost items, and other services.
• Onboard Credit (OBC): Prepaid amount that is sometimes given to passengers by a promotion, agent, or cruise line to use onboard towards their bill.
• Gratuity : A daily tip for cruise staff , often automatically added to your onboard account, acknowledging their service.
• Itinerary : The cruise schedule detailing the ship’s travel plans includes ports-of-call and sea days.
• Sail Away Party : As the cruise sails from port on embarkation day, there is usually a huge celebration on the pool deck.
• Shore Excursion Desk : The place onboard where passengers can book and inquire about guided tours and activities at the upcoming ports of call.
• Towel Animal: The art of folding towels into various animal shapes is a fun and creative touch the cabin attendant may add to your cabin decor during turn-down service. Unfortunately, most cruise lines have stopped making towel animals, but Carnival Cruise Lines continues the tradition.
• Cruise Ducks : A fun tradition among passengers who hide and seek small rubber ducks around the ship for others to find.
• Wave Season : Refers to the time of year (usually January through March) when many people book their cruises, prompted by cold weather in the Northern Hemisphere and the cruise lines offering attractive deals and promotions.
• The Suite Life : The luxury experience of staying in a suite cabin on a cruise ship, offering VIP treatment, personalized service, and exclusive amenities.
• Back-to-Back (B2B) : When you book one cruise after another on the same ship when one cruise ends and the other begins.
• Closed Loop Sailing: When a cruise starts and returns to the same port.
• Obstructed View: When lifeboats or ship structures partially block a view from a cabin, you do not get a full ocean view.

Cruise Deck Terms

• Lido Deck : Often the hub of outdoor activities on the ship, the Lido deck is where you’ll find the main pool area, sun loungers, and sometimes, outdoor bars and buffets.
• Promenade Deck : This deck usually features a wide, outdoor walking area around the ship, perfect for a stroll with ocean views. The promenade might include shops, cafes, and other social spaces.
• Sun Deck : As the name suggests, this is an open deck area designed for sunbathing, offering plenty of loungers and, often, panoramic sea views.
• Pool Deck : Similar to the Lido deck, this area is focused on the ship’s swimming pools and accompanying leisure facilities, including hot tubs and poolside bars.
• Observation Deck : Located at the top of the ship, the observation deck offers the best unobstructed views of the ocean and the ship’s surroundings, making it the perfect spot for sightseeing and photography.
• Sports Deck : Dedicated to physical activities, the sports deck may include jogging tracks, miniature golf courses, basketball courts, and other sports facilities.
• Spa Deck : Typically housing the ship’s spa and fitness center, this deck is about relaxation and rejuvenation, offering treatments, massages, and fitness classes.
• Entertainment Deck : Home to the ship’s theaters, cinemas, nightclubs, and lounges, this deck is the heart of nighttime entertainment.

Cruise Dining Phrases

The dining experience is a large part of cruising. You should know These cruise words when delving into the dining scene on a cruise.

• Main Dining Room (MDR): The ship’s primary dining area, offering seated dining with various menu options, often included in your cruise fare. Sometimes, there is more than one main dining room.
• Buffet : A casual dining option on a cruise ship offering a wide range of options during breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. It’s self-service and usually included in the cruise fare .
• Specialty Dining : Onboard restaurants offering gourmet or special cuisine not covered by the cruise fare often require reservations and cost an additional fee.
• À la Carte : Dining options where each item is priced separately, unlike the set menu prices in the main dining room or inclusive fare at the buffet.
• Anytime Dining : Also known as “Your Time Dining” is an arrangement that allows you to eat your meals at any time during dining hours instead of scheduled seating times.
• Fixed Seating : Assigned dining times and tables for the duration of the cruise, offering a consistent dining schedule and tablemates.
• Room Service : Food and beverages can be ordered and delivered directly to your cabin. Some items and times may be free, while others incur a charge.
• Galley : The ship’s kitchen where all the food preparation happens. Some cruises offer galley tours.
• Chef’s Table : An exclusive dining experience offering a multi-course meal prepared and presented by the ship’s chef. It usually requires a reservation and an additional fee.
• Windjammer : Often the name for the buffet restaurant on Royal Caribbean cruise ships , providing various food options in a casual setting

Cruise Slang Used Regularly Amongst Cruisers

It’s not surprising that cruising has its own slang words. Whether used in a lighthearted manner or with a touch of annoyance, terms like “chair hogs” are part of the cruise community’s lexicon.

• Cruise newbies: They’re what we call first-time beginner cruises.
• Washy-washy : A fun phrase that reminds passengers to wash and disinfect their hands.
• Chair Hog : A person who gets up early to place towels or personal items on poolside loungers to “reserve” them for the entire day, often leaving them unoccupied for long periods.
• Cruise Control : A humorous term referring to the relaxed state passengers enter once they get used to the leisurely pace and routine of life on board.
• Landlubber : A playful term borrowed from old sailor vocabulary, referring to someone not accustomed to life at sea or who prefers to stay on land.
• Pier Runner : A passenger who returns to the ship at the last possible moment before departure, often seen running down the pier to avoid being left behind.
• Sea Legs : The ability to adjust to the ship’s motion and walk steadily onboard. “Finding your sea legs” means you’ve adapted to the movement and no longer feel unsteady.
• Shipfaced : A cheeky term for someone who has enjoyed perhaps a bit too much of the ship’s bar offerings.
• Naughty Room: This is where you’ll find your luggage if prohibited items are packed .
• One Uppers: Cruisers that brag about the many cruises they’ve taken and their loyalty status.
• Shipspotting: Watching and taking photos of cruise ships.

Type of Cruising

These are the most commonly discussed types of cruising within the cruise community .

• Mega Ships : Largest cruise ships worldwide, offering extensive amenities and entertainment options for thousands of passengers. Some of them are like theme parks at sea.
• Expedition Ships : Designed for adventurous travelers, expedition ships are equipped for exploring remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations, such as polar regions and exotic islands.
• River Cruises : Smaller vessels designed for navigating rivers, offering scenic voyages through picturesque landscapes and visits to historic towns and cultural sites along riverbanks.
• Luxury Ships : High-end cruise ships offer unparalleled service, amenities, and accommodations, catering to discerning travelers with refined tastes.
• Theme Cruise Ships : Specialized ships catering to specific interests or themes, such as culinary cruises, music-themed cruises, or wellness retreats, offering tailored experiences for enthusiasts.
• Yacht Cruises : Small, luxurious yachts offering exclusive and customized itineraries to exotic destinations, providing an intimate and upscale sailing experience.

Maritime Jargon and Technical Terms You’ll Most Likely to Hear

Although we may not be on the bridge to use these words, we often hear maritime jargon when the captain speaks and provides a daily update.

• Bridge : The ship’s control center or navigation room, where the captain and crew command the vessel.
• Berth : Refers to a bed on the ship or the ship’s docking location at port.
• Bulkhead : A vertical partition wall within the ship, providing structural support and compartmentalization.
• Stern : The back or aft-most part of the exterior of the ship.
• Gangplank : A movable bridge passengers and crew use to board or disembark from a ship.
• Helm : The ship’s steering apparatus or area from where the ship is navigated.
• Mooring : Securing the ship at a dock or berth with ropes or anchors.
• Nautical Mile : A measure of distance used in maritime navigation, equivalent to 1.1508 miles or 1.852 kilometers.
• Knot : A unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour used to measure the speed of a ship.
• Quartermaster : A crew member responsible for steering the ship and assisting with its navigation.
• Windward : The direction from which the wind is coming. Opposite of leeward.
• Logbook : An official record of the bridge, documenting the course of the journey, important events, and operational notes.

Crew Titles on a Cruise Ship

We can’t sail anywhere without the crew that not only keeps everything running and in tip-top shape. They also work hard day and night to ensure we have the best cruise vacation. You will often run into, see, or listen to these key cruise members over the ship’s intercom throughout the cruise. It’s good to add the crew titles to your cruise vocabulary/

• Captain : The highest-ranking officer on the ship, responsible for all operations, including navigation and safety. The captain has the final authority on board. The CEO of the cruise ship.
• First Officer : Also known as the Chief Mate, this individual is second-in-command and assists the captain in ship navigation and operations.
• Staff Captain : Often responsible for safety and security aboard the ship, including overseeing the crew involved in these areas.
• Hotel Director : Oversees all hotel services on the ship, including accommodations, dining, and entertainment, ensuring passengers’ comfort and satisfaction.
• Cruise Director : Responsible for all onboard entertainment and activities. The cruise director plans and coordinates events and announcements, playing a key role in the cruise experience.
• Purser : Handles administrative tasks, including passenger services such as billing and customer inquiries. The Purser’s Desk is the go-to place for guest assistance.
• Chief Engineer : The engineering department maintains and operates the ship’s mechanical and electrical systems.
• Executive Chef : Heads the culinary team and is responsible for all ship food planning, preparation, and presentation.
• Maitre d’Hotel : Oversees the dining room staff, reservations, and seating arrangements, ensuring a high-quality dining experience for passengers.
• Cabin Steward or Stateroom Attendant : Maintains the cleanliness and orderliness of passenger cabins, providing daily housekeeping services.
• Bartender/Bar Staff : Serves drinks and manages the bars on the ship, offering a variety of beverages to passengers.
• Deckhands : Perform various tasks related to the maintenance and operation of the ship, including cleaning and minor repairs.

Download a Glossary of Cruise Vocabulary

We created a simple glossary of all the terms mentioned in this post for easy reference. You can download a copy to print or save it.

Quiz: Test Your Cruise Lingo Knowledge

What is the word for getting on a cruise ship.

The word for getting on a cruise ship is “embarkation.”

What are people on a cruise called?

People on a cruise are commonly referred to as “passengers” or “cruisers.” Virgin Voyages likes to call them “sailors.”

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Plan a Cruise Trip With These Steps
• A Cruise Cheat Sheet of Tips
• Cruise Jokes and Memes That Will Make You Smile
• Motivating Cruise-Related Quotes

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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The slang encycolopedia

British slang glossary

Welcome to our comprehensive British slang glossary! 🚋🏘💈

Britain isn’t just about the Queen’s Guard and afternoon tea; it’s brimming with a rich tapestry of slang and expressions that might leave even the most adept linguists scratching their heads. Here, we’ve handpicked the most quintessential UK slang terms, complete with their meanings, origins, and illustrative examples. Whether you’re a Brit at heart or a fascinated tourist, this guide will be your ticket to mastering the lingo of the land. Dive in and speak like a true Brit! Without further ado, here’s our comprehensive list of British slang:

Quick navigation:

A b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z.

Trouble finding a certain phrase? Click control + F on your keyboard, and type in the term you’re trying to find. Still not able to find it? Let us know down in the comments below!

• Meaning : Short for “aggravation”. It’s used to describe someone being aggressive or causing trouble.
• Origin : Abbreviation of “aggravation”.
• Usage : “There was a bit of aggro at the pub last night.”

All mouth and no trousers

• Meaning : Someone who talks a lot but doesn’t follow through with their words.
• Origin : Describes someone who’s all talk without substance, as if they forgot to put their trousers on.
• Usage : “He claims he’ll beat the record, but he’s all mouth and no trousers.”
• Meaning : A person obsessively interested in a thing, especially something niche. Can be somewhat derogatory.
• Origin : Refers to the anorak jackets that stereotypical hobbyists might wear.
• Usage : “He’s such an anorak about train schedules.”
• Meaning : Refers to the buttocks. Can also mean a person or way of behavior.
• Origin : Old English “ærs”.
• Usage : “Get off your arse and do some work!”

Arse over tit

• Meaning : Falling over, usually in a clumsy manner.
• Origin : A colorful way to describe someone tumbling down.
• Usage : “I went arse over tit on that icy patch.”

Anti-clockwise

• Meaning : Opposite direction to the way clock hands move, known as “counter-clockwise” in many other places.
• Origin : Descriptive.
• Usage : “Turn the knob anti-clockwise.”

Apples and pears

• Meaning : Cockney rhyming slang for stairs.
• Origin : Classic East London rhyming slang.
• Usage : “I’m heading up the apples and pears to bed.”
• Meaning : A disagreement or heated argument.
• Origin : Possibly from “argue”, repeated for emphasis.
• Usage : “There was a bit of argy-bargy after the match.”

Arm and a leg

• Meaning : Very expensive.
• Origin : The idea that something is so costly it’s like giving up a vital part of oneself.
• Usage : “This handbag cost an arm and a leg!”
• Meaning : Accident and Emergency department in a hospital, similar to the ER (Emergency Room) in the U.S.
• Origin : Abbreviation.
• Usage : “He hurt his hand and had to go to A&E.”

At loggerheads

• Meaning : In disagreement or dispute with someone.
• Origin : Possibly from the use of loggerhead tools that were heated and used in certain industries.
• Usage : “The two families have been at loggerheads for years.”

Away with the fairies

• Meaning : Daydreaming or not paying attention.
• Origin : Refers to the whimsical nature of fairies and being in a dreamlike state.
• Usage : “Sorry, I missed that. I was away with the fairies.”

Back to Top

• Meaning : Tobacco.
• Origin : Abbreviation of “tobacco”.
• Usage : “Got any baccy for this pipe?”
• Meaning : Calling dibs on something.
• Origin : Possibly from children’s language.
• Usage : “Bagsy the front seat!”
• Meaning : Crazy or mad.
• Origin : From “barm”, meaning fermenting froth in beer-making, implying agitation.
• Usage : “You must be barmy to jump into that cold water!”

Bee’s knees

• Meaning : Something excellent or of high quality.
• Origin : 1920s American slang. The exact origins are unclear.
• Usage : “This new song is the bee’s knees!”
• Meaning : A derogatory term, calling someone an idiot.
• Origin : Refers to the glans of the penis.
• Usage : “Stop being such a bellend!”
• Meaning : A drinking spree.
• Origin : To bend one’s elbow while drinking.
• Usage : “He’s been on a bender since Friday.”
• Meaning : Custom or tailor-made.
• Origin : Originated from when material for a suit was “spoken for” by a tailor.
• Usage : “She ordered a bespoke gown for the ball.”
• Meaning : An exclamation of surprise.
• Origin : Likely a corruption of “Blind me!” or “God blind me!”
• Usage : “Blimey, that was a close call!”
• Meaning : Having a narrow or limited outlook.
• Origin : Refers to the blinkers used on horses to keep them seeing straight ahead only.
• Usage : “You have such a blinkered view of the situation.”
• Meaning : To do a clumsy or inelegant job of fixing something.
• Origin : Possibly from “botch”.
• Usage : “I tried to fix the sink but I made a bodge of it.”
• Meaning : Toilet paper.
• Origin : “Bog” is slang for toilet.
• Usage : “We’re out of bog roll!”
• Meaning : Nonsense or something incorrect; also refers to testicles.
• Origin : Old English “beallucas” meaning testicles.
• Usage : “What he’s saying is absolute bollocks!”
• Meaning : The trunk of a car.
• Origin : Descriptive of the storage space at the back of a vehicle.
• Usage : “Put the groceries in the boot.”

Brassed off

• Meaning : Annoyed or fed up.
• Origin : Possibly from the use of brass instruments which can be loud and annoying.
• Usage : “I’m really brassed off with this situation.”
• Meaning : Breakfast.
• Usage : “What are we having for brekkie?”
• Meaning : Short for “brilliant”.
• Usage : “That’s a brill idea!”
• Meaning : To cry or to be in tears.
• Origin : Possibly from the notion of eyes welling up with tears.
• Usage : “The film was so sad, it made me bubble.”
• Meaning : A term of affection or frustration; also used to denote something gone wrong.
• Origin : From Middle French “bougre” for heretic, referring to Bulgarians of the Bogomil sect.
• Usage : “The car won’t start! Oh, bugger.”
• Meaning : Unwanted or excessive paperwork or documentation.
• Origin : Short for “bum fodder”, implying its only use would be as toilet paper.
• Usage : “I’ve got a drawer full of bumf from the bank.”

Butcher’s

• Meaning : A look. Short for “butcher’s hook” in Cockney rhyming slang.
• Origin : Cockney rhyming slang.
• Usage : “Give me a butcher’s at that!”
• Meaning : A derogatory term used to describe someone perceived as lower-class and displaying brash behavior, cheap clothing.
• Origin : Uncertain. Some theories suggest it’s from “Chatham Average” or Romany word “chavi” (meaning child).
• Usage : “Look at those chavs hanging out at the mall.”
• Meaning : Slightly disrespectful, but in a playful or appealing way.
• Origin : Referring to someone’s boldness or audacity, as if “showing cheek”.
• Usage : “He took a cheeky bite of my sandwich!”
• Meaning : A chat or conversation.
• Origin : From the motion of the chin during talking.
• Usage : “We had a good chinwag over coffee.”
• Meaning : Pleased or satisfied.
• Origin : Possibly from the sound of steam being released, like a steam engine puffing.
• Usage : “I’m absolutely chuffed with my new bike.”
• Meaning : A mistake or blunder.
• Origin : Refers to the sound of something being dropped.
• Usage : “He dropped a real clanger in the meeting.”
• Meaning : Clothes.
• Origin : Possibly from the word “clob”, meaning a lump or piece.
• Usage : “Nice clobber! Going out tonight?”
• Meaning : A mistake or something done wrong.
• Origin : Naval term referring to a mishap with rigging.
• Usage : “The whole event was a massive cock-up.”
• Meaning : Nonsense.
• Origin : Rumored (though likely apocryphal) to be from Hiram Codd, an inventor of a bottle for fizzy drinks, and “wallop”, a slang term for beer.
• Usage : “What he said is absolute codswallop.”
• Meaning : An exclamation of surprise or admiration.
• Origin : Possibly a contraction of “God”.
• Usage : “Cor, look at that!”
• Meaning : Potato chips.
• Origin : Descriptive, from the crisp nature of the snack.
• Usage : “Can you grab a bag of crisps from the shop?”
• Meaning : A cup of tea.
• Usage : “Fancy a cuppa?”
• Meaning : Refers to the end or death.
• Origin : Refers to the closing of curtains at the end of a performance.
• Usage : “If he finds out, it’s curtains for you.”
• Meaning : To talk or mutter in a low or indistinct manner; grumble.
• Origin : Possible alteration of “chatter”.
• Usage : “He continued to chunter about the decision.”
• Meaning : A man or boy.
• Origin : Shortened form of “chapman”, an old term for a trader or merchant.
• Usage : “He’s a nice chap, isn’t he?”
• Meaning : Excellent or very good.
• Origin : Possibly related to “crack” as something outstanding (from Irish “craic”, meaning fun).
• Usage : “That’s a cracking idea!”
• Meaning : Silly or foolish.
• Origin : From Old English “gedæfte” meaning gentle or meek.
• Usage : “Don’t be daft, that’s not how it works.”
• Meaning : A quick look or glance.
• Origin : From the Hindi word “dekho” meaning look.
• Usage : “Give me a dekko at what you’re working on.”
• Meaning : Not feeling well or something malfunctioning.
• Origin : Uncertain. Possibly rhyming slang (Dicky Bird = word) or related to Richard III, who had a crooked back.
• Usage : “The radio’s gone a bit dicky.”
• Meaning : Attractive or good-looking, usually referring to a man.
• Origin : “Dish” in the sense of something desirable on a plate.
• Usage : “That new actor is quite dishy.”
• Meaning : Suspicious, unreliable, or of questionable quality.
• Origin : Possibly related to the verb “dodge”.
• Usage : “I wouldn’t buy anything from that dodgy shop.”

Dog’s Bollocks

• Meaning : Something that’s the very best in its category.
• Origin : Likely from “the cat’s whiskers” (meaning the same thing) with a more humorous twist.
• Usage : “This new game is the dog’s bollocks!”
• Meaning : Money.
• Origin : Unknown. Possibly related to the word “dash”, which once meant to sprinkle or to pay out.
• Usage : “How much dosh did you spend on that?”
• Meaning : A board game known as checkers in the U.S.
• Origin : From the Old English “drag-“, meaning to pull or to draw.
• Usage : “Fancy a game of draughts?”

Drop a clanger

• Meaning : Make a mistake or say something embarrassing.
• Origin : Related to “clanger”, which refers to a mistake.
• Usage : “He really dropped a clanger during the presentation.”
• Meaning : Something that’s broken or not working properly; also means a beating as in “to give someone a duffing up”.
• Origin : Possibly from the word “duff up”, meaning to mistreat or manhandle.
• Usage : “This old car’s duff.”
• Meaning : A quilted blanket filled with down or feathers, known as a “comforter” in the U.S.
• Origin : From the French word “duvet”, meaning down (as of a bird).
• Usage : “It’s cold tonight; put another duvet on the bed.”
• Meaning : Go away or leave.
• Origin : Uncertain. Colloquial and informal.
• Usage : “I’ve had enough of this, I’m going to do one.”
• Meaning : A cunning trick or shifty deception.
• Origin : From the action of dodging or avoiding something.
• Usage : “That was a smart dodge to avoid the traffic.”
• Meaning : To eavesdrop on someone’s conversation.
• Origin : Refers to the insect ‘earwig’ believed to crawl into human ears and the association with listening closely.
• Usage : “Stop trying to earwig on our conversation!”
• Meaning : Something very easy.
• Origin : Expanded version of ‘easy’, with the playful rhyme added for emphasis.
• Usage : “Getting that job done was easy peasy.”
• Meaning : A short break taken around 11 a.m. to consume a light refreshment, often with tea or coffee.
• Origin : Refers to the time, 11 a.m., when this break is typically taken.
• Usage : “I’m just making some scones for elevenses.”
• Meaning : A public toilet is in use. Also means a phone line is busy.
• Origin : Comes from the idea of being busy or occupied.
• Usage : “Wait a moment, the restroom is engaged.”
• Meaning : Very or extremely.
• Origin : A way of emphasizing a description.
• Usage : “Thank you, that’s ever so kind of you.”

Excuse my French

• Meaning : An apology for swearing or using a bad word.
• Origin : It’s a way of apologizing by pretending the swear word is a foreign language.
• Usage : “He’s a pain in the ass, excuse my French.”
• Meaning : Being annoyed or in a mood.
• Origin : Possibly from the delicate nature of eggs and how easily they can be broken.
• Usage : “She’s been a bit eggy since this morning.”
• Meaning : A term often used in London to refer to a particular area or neighborhood.
• Origin : Simply short for “end of the street” or a specific locality.
• Usage : “Which ends are you from?”
• Meaning : Short for “here” in phrases like “What’s going on here?”
• Origin : Colloquial abbreviation.
• Usage : “Oi, what’s going on ere?”
• Meaning : A greeting, much like “Hello” or “Hey there”. Mostly used in the North of England.
• Origin : Derived from “hey up”, where “up” is an old Middle English word meaning “on the rise” or “awake”.
• Usage : “Ey up, mate. How’s it going?”
• Meaning : Not to be confused with the tripod stand for artists, in slang, it can mean easy.
• Origin : Rhyming slang, where words rhyme with the intended word.
• Usage : “Don’t worry, it’s easel.”

Elbow Grease

• Meaning : Hard physical work, especially when cleaning or polishing something.
• Origin : Refers to the effort of scrubbing, which requires one to use their elbows energetically.
• Usage : “You’ll need some elbow grease to clean that stain.”
• Meaning : A cigarette.
• Origin : Possibly shortened from ‘fag end’, which means the leftover or useless part, referring to the cigarette butt.
• Usage : “Do you have a fag I could borrow?”
• Meaning : To waste time on unimportant things; dithering.
• Origin : It’s believed to come from the 17th century word ‘faffle’, which meant to flap about in the wind.
• Usage : “Stop faffing about and get on with it!”
• Meaning : To like or be attracted to.
• Origin : Derived from the old French word ‘fantaisie’, which means preference or desire.
• Usage : “I really fancy a cup of tea right now.” or “Do you fancy him?”
• Meaning : Attractive or good-looking.
• Origin : A play on someone being in ‘fit’ physical shape.
• Usage : “Did you see that guy? He’s fit!”
• Meaning : Unreliable; tends to forget or bail out on commitments.
• Origin : Comes from the idea of something that easily falls apart, like flaky pastry.
• Usage : “I wouldn’t count on him, he’s a bit flakey.”

Full of beans

• Meaning : To be lively, energetic.
• Origin : Refers to horses that were fed beans to increase their vitality and energy.
• Usage : “My kids are full of beans this morning.”
• Meaning : A period of two weeks.
• Origin : From Old English ‘fēowertēne niht’, literally meaning fourteen nights.
• Usage : “I’ll be on holiday for a fortnight.”
• Meaning : The whole thing, full measure.
• Origin : Possibly referring to Field Marshal Montgomery, a British officer in WWII, who was known for his full breakfasts. Another theory relates it to a strip show where everything is shown.
• Usage : “If you’re going to have a roast, might as well go the full monty and include all the trimmings.”
• Meaning : Football (or soccer, as it’s known in the US).
• Origin : Abbreviation of “football.”
• Usage : “Are you watching the footy tonight?”
• Meaning : To sell something.
• Origin : A reapplication of an older meaning, which was to beat or whip, suggesting the idea of pushing or getting rid of something.
• Usage : “I’m going to flog my old sofa.”
• Meaning : A five-pound note.
• Origin : Simply derived from “five.”
• Usage : “Can you lend me a fiver?”
• Meaning : Bangs (the part of the hair that’s cut straight and hangs above the eyebrows).
• Origin : Refers to the edge or border of something.
• Usage : “I’m thinking of getting a fringe.”
• Meaning : Home or place.
• Origin : Possibly derived from Romany ‘gav’, meaning town or village.
• Usage : “Come over to my gaff later for some tea.”
• Meaning : The boss or person in charge.
• Origin : From “gaff” which originally meant a fishing hook, leading to the meaning of someone who oversees fishing, and then more broadly, someone in charge.
• Usage : “Ask the gaffer if we can leave early today.”
• Meaning : To go around from one place to another in the pursuit of pleasure or entertainment.
• Origin : Late 18th century alteration of ‘galant’ (associated with going about and flirting).
• Usage : “She’s been gallivanting around Europe all summer.”
• Meaning : Something that’s injured or lame. Often used to describe a leg or foot.
• Origin : Possibly from an alteration of the word ‘gimpy.’
• Usage : “I’ve got a gammy leg after that football match.”
• Meaning : A man, often particularly used to describe an older man.
• Origin : Originally referred to someone who went around in disguise, from the word ‘guise’. Its meaning has evolved over time.
• Usage : “He’s a proper old geezer.”
• Meaning : Amazed; astounded; utterly shocked.
• Origin : From “gob” (mouth) and the word “smack”, suggesting the idea of being so surprised as if one had been slapped across the mouth.
• Usage : “I was absolutely gobsmacked when I heard the news.”
• Meaning : Deeply disappointed or upset.
• Origin : Referring to the idea of having one’s insides or guts removed.
• Usage : “I was gutted when my team lost the match.”

Guv’nor (or Guv)

• Meaning : A term of address or title of respect for a man, often used humorously.
• Origin : Short for “governor”, which was used as a title of respect for men.
• Usage : “Alright, guv’nor? How’s it going?”
• Meaning : Food.
• Origin : Possibly from the old word “grub” meaning to dig, as in digging for food.
• Usage : “What’s for grub tonight?”

Give it some welly

• Meaning : Put more effort into something or go faster.
• Origin : Refers to “Wellington boots”, implying the action of pressing down on a car’s accelerator pedal.
• Usage : “If we want to get there on time, we need to give it some welly.”
• Meaning : Have a look.
• Origin : Derived from the way a gander (a male goose) stretches its neck to look at something.
• Usage : “Have a gander at this magazine.”
• Meaning : Someone who talks a lot and often loudly, sometimes in a rude manner.
• Origin : Comes from “gob”, slang for mouth.
• Usage : “She’s so gobby; she never stops talking.”
• Meaning : Negotiate the price of something.
• Origin : Early 17th century, from an Old Norse word meaning “to chop or cut”.
• Usage : “He tried to haggle with the street vendor to get a better deal on the scarf.”
• Meaning : Bad luck.
• Origin : Refers to the concept of hard boundaries or limits.
• Usage : “Hard lines, mate. Maybe next time.”

Her Majesty’s pleasure

• Meaning : In prison.
• Origin : Refers to the British monarch; being imprisoned is officially done by order of the monarch, hence at “Her Majesty’s pleasure”.
• Usage : “He won’t be out for a while; he’s staying at Her Majesty’s pleasure.”
• Meaning : Everything is fine; okay.
• Origin : Uncertain, but possibly from an American slang term.
• Usage : “How’s everything going?” “It’s all hunky-dory.”

Have a butcher’s

• Origin : Cockney rhyming slang: “butcher’s hook” = “look”.
• Usage : “Have a butcher’s at this photo, mate.”

Hard cheese

• Meaning : Tough luck; bad fortune.
• Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but cheese has been used in various slang contexts in British English.
• Usage : “You missed the bus? Hard cheese, mate.”
• Meaning : Informal greeting, short for “hi there” or “hello”.
• Origin : Contraction of “hi there” or “how are you”.
• Usage : “Hiya! Haven’t seen you in ages.”
• Meaning : Holidays.
• Origin : Simply a shortening of the word “holidays”.
• Usage : “Where are you going for your hols this year?”
• Meaning : Vomiting.
• Origin : Onomatopoeic, from the noise made.
• Usage : “Drank way too much last night and ended up honking.”

How’s your father

• Meaning : Euphemism for sex or sexual activity.
• Origin : Early 20th century; its origin is uncertain but thought to be from music hall songs that used the phrase as a euphemism.
• Usage : “A little bit of ‘how’s your father’ after dinner.”
• Meaning : Nose.
• Origin : Early 19th century, originally denoting an owl, later (early 20th century) a horn, hence a nose.
• Usage : “He’s got a huge hooter, hasn’t he?”
• Meaning : Isn’t it? Often used rhetorically to punctuate or affirm a statement.
• Origin : Contraction of “isn’t it”.
• Usage : “It’s really cold today, innit?”

I’m easy

• Meaning : I don’t mind; I have no strong preference.
• Origin : Casual expression indicating the person’s ease with any decision.
• Usage : “Which restaurant do you want to go to?” “I’m easy.”

It’s monkeys outside

• Meaning : It’s very cold outside.
• Origin : Likely an abbreviation of the longer phrase “cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey”.
• Usage : “Make sure you wear a coat; it’s monkeys outside.”
• Meaning : Teeth.
• Origin : Refers to the ivory-like appearance of teeth.
• Usage : “He’s got a set of ivories on him!”
• Meaning : Upset or in a bad emotional state.
• Origin : Referring to someone being broken down emotionally.
• Usage : “After they broke up, she was in bits.”

In the buff

• Meaning : Naked.
• Origin : The word “buff” historically referred to a soft, undyed leather, similar in color to Caucasian skin.
• Usage : “He was caught running around in the buff!”
• Meaning : A desire to travel or move on.
• Origin : Possibly from the restless sensation one feels when wanting to move or travel.
• Usage : “I think I’ve got itchy feet; I want to see the world.”

I’ll give you a bell

• Meaning : I will call you (on the phone).
• Origin : ‘Bell’ referring to the ringing of the phone.
• Usage : “Don’t worry, I’ll give you a bell later.”
• Meaning : Uncertain or doubtful.
• Origin : A colloquial term that probably evolved from the word “if”.
• Usage : “The weather looks a bit iffy; we might need an umbrella.”
• Meaning : Short for “isn’t” or “aren’t”.
• Origin : Dialectical contraction often associated with Northern England.
• Usage : “Int’ that John’s car?”

In a pickle

• Meaning : In a difficult situation.
• Origin : The term “pickle” comes from the Dutch word “pekel”, meaning “something piquant”, and originally referred to a spiced, salted vinegar that was used as a preservative.
• Usage : “I forgot my wallet at home; I’m in a real pickle now.”
• Meaning : Lucky.
• Origin : Uncertain, but might be related to the idea of getting something sweet or good without much effort (like getting jam from a jar).
• Usage : “He won the lottery? What a jammy bloke!”
• Meaning : Go away or get lost.
• Origin : Literally referring to someone starting to jog or move away.
• Usage : “If you think I’m going to lend you money again, you can jog on!”
• Meaning : Very or extremely; also used to describe something pleasant or enjoyable.
• Origin : From the Old French “jolif”, meaning “merry” or “festive”.
• Usage : “We had a jolly good time at the seaside.”
• Meaning : A sweater or pullover.
• Origin : Possibly from the action of “jumping” or “bouncing”, relating to the movement made when putting on the garment.
• Usage : “It’s getting chilly outside; better put on a jumper.”
• Meaning : To inject oneself with drugs.
• Origin : The term “jack” has been used as slang for a small amount of something, especially in relation to drugs.
• Usage : “He’s been jacking-up again, hasn’t he?”
• Meaning : Buttocks or rear end.
• Origin : Cockney rhyming slang, though the exact origin is unclear.
• Usage : “He fell right on his jacksie!”
• Meaning : A drink, typically referring to a pint of beer.
• Origin : A jar traditionally being a container for liquids.
• Usage : “Let’s head to the pub for a couple of jars.”

John Thomas

• Meaning : A euphemistic term for the male genitalia.
• Origin : Popularized by the novel “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” by D.H. Lawrence.
• Usage : Not often used in daily conversation due to its explicit meaning.
• Meaning : Good or excellent; also, a type of frozen drink.
• Origin : “Jubbly” was a brand name for a triangular-shaped frozen drink. Over time, it became a slang term for something cool or excellent.
• Usage : “It’s a hot day; fancy a jubbly?” or “That film was jubbly!”
• Meaning : A person from Plymouth, Devon.
• Origin : Uncertain, but it may derive from the phrase “cousin Jan” (akin to “John Doe”) which was used in Cornwall and Devon.
• Usage : “He’s a true Janner, born and raised in Plymouth.”
• Meaning : A lively party or dance.
• Origin : Likely comes from the literal act of raising one’s knees while dancing.
• Usage : “We’re having a knees up for Sharon’s birthday on Friday.”
• Meaning : Very tired or exhausted.
• Origin : Originally referred to a tired old horse that might be taken away by the “knacker” to be turned into glue or other products.
• Usage : “I’m totally knackered after that workout.”
• Meaning : A short sleep or nap.
• Origin : Possibly from the Danish word “kipp” which means a short sleep.
• Usage : “I’m going to have a quick kip before we go out tonight.”
• Meaning : Set of personal equipment or belongings; also refers to clothing, especially a uniform.
• Origin : From the Middle Dutch word “kitte” meaning a container for liquids.
• Usage : “Have you got your football kit ready for the match?”
• Meaning : An idiot or unpleasant person; also a euphemism for the male genitalia.
• Origin : Old English “cnob”, meaning a round handle.
• Usage : “Don’t be such a knob.” (Depending on the context, be cautious with its usage.)
• Meaning : Women’s underwear.
• Origin : Shortened from “knickerbockers”, which were a type of men’s clothing worn in the 19th century.
• Usage : “I can’t find my favourite pair of knickers.”

Know your onions

• Meaning : To be very knowledgeable or skilled in a particular area.
• Origin : 1920s, but the exact origin is uncertain.
• Usage : “If you need advice about cars, speak to Gary. He really knows his onions.”
• Meaning : Referring to a situation being mild or easy, similar to how a korma is a mild curry.
• Origin : From the dish “korma” which is a mild curry.
• Usage : “That exam was korma.”
• Meaning : Trousers or pants.
• Origin : Possibly a variant of “kex”, a Northern English term for dried stems of certain plants, which then became used to refer to legs and, by extension, trousers.
• Usage : “Those are some nice kecks you’ve got on.”
• Meaning : A term used to describe the action of police containing a crowd in a restricted area, especially during protests.
• Origin : Short for “kettling”, a tactic used by the police.
• Usage : “The protesters were kettled for hours.”
• Meaning : A young man, often one who behaves in a boisterous manner. Also associated with “lad culture.”
• Origin : Old English “lædel”, meaning leading or conducting, later associated with young men.
• Usage : “He’s one of the lads.”
• Meaning : Flashy, showy, or aggressive.
• Origin : Possibly from “leery”, which means wary or cautious, but took on a different tone in UK slang.
• Usage : “That shirt’s a bit lairy, isn’t it?”
• Meaning : Short for “legend”. Someone who is very admirable or entertaining.
• Origin : Abbreviation of the word “legend”.
• Usage : “You bought me coffee? You’re a ledge.”
• Meaning : To run quickly.
• Origin : Reference to using one’s legs to escape rapidly.
• Usage : “The bus is coming! Leg it!”
• Meaning : A fictitious, often humorous disease; used to refer to feeling slightly ill.
• Origin : Popularized by the 1950s British radio comedy “The Goon Show.”
• Usage : “I can’t come out tonight, I’ve got the lurgy.”
• Meaning : Toilet.
• Origin : Possibly from “guardez l’eau” (watch out for the water) in French, which was shouted in medieval times before throwing waste water from a window.
• Usage : “I need to use the loo.”

Lost the plot

• Meaning : Gone crazy or behaving irrationally.
• Origin : A reference to a story or narrative going off course.
• Usage : “He’s completely lost the plot since she left him.”
• Meaning : Very good, attractive, or appealing.
• Origin : Might be related to the old English word “luscious”.
• Usage : “This cake is absolutely lush!”
• Meaning : A young woman who behaves in a boisterously assertive manner.
• Origin : Female version of “lad” combined with the “-ette” suffix.
• Usage : “She’s not just one of the lads, she’s a ladette.”
• Meaning : Something done for fun, even if slightly mischievous.
• Origin : Possibly from the playful nature of larks, the bird.
• Usage : “It was just a lark, we didn’t mean any harm.”
• Meaning : Aggressive or confrontational.
• Origin : Potentially a variation of “leery”.
• Usage : “He got a bit lairy after a few drinks.”

Maccy D’s

• Meaning : Slang term for McDonald’s.
• Origin : A colloquial abbreviation.
• Usage : “Fancy a burger from Maccy D’s?”
• Meaning : Very enthusiastic or eager.
• Origin : A phrase popularized by the Manchester music scene in the 1990s.
• Usage : “He’s mad for it every time there’s a new game out.”
• Meaning : Friend.
• Origin : From the old French “mat”, meaning equal or peer.
• Usage : “Alright, mate?”
• Meaning : Annoyed or offended.
• Origin : Possibly from “miff”, an old term for a trivial quarrel.
• Usage : “She was really miffed when you forgot her birthday.”
• Origin : Mint condition – refers to something being in perfect state.
• Usage : “That concert was mint!”
• Meaning : Light rain or drizzle.
• Origin : A combination of “mist” and “drizzle”.
• Usage : “Looks like it’s starting to mizzle outside.”
• Meaning : A cat.
• Origin : Possibly from “Maggy”, once a common name for a cow, later used as a name for a cat.
• Usage : “That’s a cute moggy you’ve got there.”
• Meaning : Friend or mate.
• Origin : From the word “muck” (dirt), referencing going through thick and thin together.
• Usage : “Hey mucker, long time no see!”
• Meaning : A gullible person; or to attack someone.
• Origin : Possibly from “muggins” meaning a fool, or from “mug” as a face (making a stupid face).
• Usage : “Don’t be such a mug.” or “He got mugged on his way home.”
• Meaning : Drunk or beaten up.
• Origin : Uncertain, though some speculate a relation to “miller” and the grinding down or crushing of grain.
• Usage : “Got absolutely mullered last night.”

Mum’s the word

• Meaning : Keep this a secret; don’t tell anyone.
• Origin : Possibly from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Part 2: “Seal up your lips and give no words but mum.”
• Usage : “I’ll tell you, but mum’s the word, okay?”
• Meaning : Unfashionable, lacking in style, or low quality.
• Origin : The origins of “naff” are unclear, but it became popular in the 1970s.
• Usage : “That shirt looks a bit naff, doesn’t it?”
• Meaning : An informer, especially a police informer; or to annoy someone.
• Origin : Originally a Romany word for “nose”, it evolved into a term for someone who “noses around”.
• Usage : “Don’t be a nark!” or “That really narked me off.”
• Meaning : To steal; or a state of disrepair; or a police station.
• Origin : Possibly derived from Old English “hnecan” meaning to slay or take someone’s life.
• Usage : “Someone nicked my bike.” or “My phone’s in the nick.” or “He’s down at the nick.”
• Meaning : Stylish or particularly good.
• Origin : From the 1860s, meaning neat and tidy.
• Usage : “That’s a nifty jacket you’ve got there.”
• Meaning : Food; or to eat.
• Origin : Borrowed from Yiddish “nashn”, meaning to nibble.
• Usage : “I’m starving, let’s get some nosh.” or “I’m going to nosh down on this pizza.”
• Meaning : Nothing.
• Origin : From Old English “nāwiht”, meaning “no thing”.
• Usage : “There’s nowt left in the fridge.”
• Meaning : A silly or foolish person.
• Origin : Possibly derived from “numps”, an older term for a blockhead or numbskull.
• Usage : “Don’t be such a numpty.”
• Meaning : Head; or to headbutt.
• Origin : “Nut” is an old term for the head, dating back to at least the 16th century.
• Usage : “He’s off his nut.” or “He nutted him during the argument.”
• Meaning : A crazy or mad person.
• Origin : Derived from “nut”, slang for the head or mind.
• Usage : “He’s a complete nutter!”
• Meaning : Cold or chilly; or quick/fast.
• Origin : Possibly from the quick movement of nipples when cold, or simply from the idea of quick movement.
• Usage : “It’s a bit nippy outside.” or “That car’s quite nippy.”
• Meaning : No problem or it’s okay.
• Origin : Derived from the standard English usage of “bother” meaning trouble or difficulty.
• Usage : “Can you help me with this? – No bother!”
• Meaning : Small, miscellaneous items or tasks.
• Origin : From “odd”, meaning strange or different.
• Usage : “I’ve got a few odds and ends to sort out today.”

On the pull

• Meaning : Trying to find someone to hook up with or date.
• Origin : Probably derived from the idea of “pulling” someone in or attracting them.
• Usage : “He’s going out tonight, and he’s definitely on the pull.”

On your bike

• Meaning : A way to tell someone to go away.
• Origin : Likely a more polite way to tell someone to leave, suggesting they get on their bike and ride off.
• Usage : “You don’t like it? Well, on your bike then!”
• Meaning : Are you okay?
• Origin : Likely a contraction of “are you alright?”
• Usage : “Orate, mate?”

Out of sorts

• Meaning : Feeling a bit unwell or in a bad mood.
• Origin : This phrase originally referred to printing type that had been used so often it was worn out or damaged.
• Usage : “He seems a bit out of sorts today.”

Over the moon

• Meaning : Extremely pleased or happy.
• Origin : The phrase comes from a time when the moon was used as a measure of distance.
• Usage : “She was over the moon with her exam results.”
• Meaning : Anything.
• Origin : From Old English “āwiht”, meaning “aught” or anything.
• Usage : “You want owt from the shop?”
• Meaning : Armpit.
• Origin : From Middle English “oxter”, of North Germanic origin.
• Usage : “I’ve got a pain in my oxter.”

Off one’s rocker

• Meaning : Mad or crazy.
• Origin : Referring to the idea that a person’s rocker, or balancing mechanism, is not working.
• Usage : “He must be off his rocker to think that!”
• Meaning : Off-license; a store that sells alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises.
• Origin : Shortened form of “off-license”.
• Usage : “I’m going to the offie to grab some beers.”
• Meaning : A rude or obnoxious person.
• Origin : Probably derived from the Greek “oikos” for house – an oik was originally a student from a non-prestigious school or non-Oxbridge University.
• Usage : “Don’t be such an oik!”
• Meaning : Rubbish or of poor quality.
• Origin : Likely a shortened form of “underpants”, implying something is as undesirable as used underwear.
• Usage : “That film was absolute pants!”
• Meaning : Cold weather.
• Origin : Derived from the feeling one might have in a cold park.
• Usage : “It’s a bit parky outside.”

Pear-shaped

• Meaning : When something goes wrong or awry.
• Origin : Its exact origin is unclear, but it may be related to distorted, misshapen fruit or possibly from aeronautical slang.
• Usage : “The meeting went a bit pear-shaped.”
• Meaning : A little bit hungry.
• Origin : From the word “peck”, like a bird pecking at food.
• Usage : “I’m feeling a tad peckish. Shall we grab a bite?”
• Meaning : To run away quickly.
• Origin : Possibly related to the motion of pegs in machinery, or from the idea of pegging (throwing) oneself forward.
• Usage : “When he saw the police, he pegged it.”

Penny-dropping moment

• Meaning : The moment of realization.
• Origin : From the old action of penny-in-the-slot machines, where the penny drops before the action starts.
• Usage : “I had a penny-dropping moment about how the system worked.”
• Meaning : Very cold.
• Origin : Hyperbolic use of the verb “perish”.
• Usage : “It’s perishing outside!”
• Meaning : A foolish or annoying person.
• Origin : Originally a slang term for the male genitals, but now used more widely as a derogatory term.
• Usage : “Don’t be such a pillock.”
• Meaning : Drunk.
• Origin : Possibly derived from the idea of being ‘laid out’ like a wall waiting to be plastered.
• Usage : “He got absolutely plastered last night.”
• Meaning : Lies.
• Origin : Rhyming slang. “Porky pies” rhymes with lies.
• Usage : “Are you telling porkies?”
• Meaning : Elegant, stylish, or upper class.
• Origin : Disputed. Some believe it’s an acronym for “Port Out, Starboard Home”, the most desired ticket on ships traveling from England to India, while others argue it’s from Romany “posh-houri”, meaning “half-pence”.
• Usage : “She lives in a posh part of town.”
• Meaning : Genuine or very good.
• Origin : From the Hindi word “pakka”, meaning “cooked, ripe”.
• Usage : “That’s a pukka job you’ve done there.”
• Meaning : Slang term for the British pound.
• Origin : Originated from the Latin “quid pro quo”, which means “something for something”.
• Usage : “He owes me twenty quid.”
• Meaning : To be in a position where you are profiting or benefiting.
• Origin : Derived from the use of “quid” meaning pound, implying a monetary gain.
• Usage : “If this deal goes through, we’ll be quids in.”
• Meaning : A type of hairstyle where the front hair is styled to stand up and curve back towards the back of the head.
• Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but it’s been a popular style in various eras.
• Usage : “He’s got a massive quiff today.”
• Meaning : A derogatory slang term for female genitalia.
• Origin : Dates back to the 18th century, but its exact origins are unclear.
• Usage : Not commonly used in modern conversation due to its offensive nature.
• Meaning : A traitor, especially someone who collaborates with an enemy occupation.
• Origin : Named after Vidkun Quisling, a Norwegian leader who collaborated with the Nazis during WWII.
• Usage : “He’s nothing but a quisling, siding with them.”
• Meaning : In British English, it can mean “to a moderate degree” or “very”, depending on context.
• Origin : From the Latin “quietus” meaning “quiet” or “calm”, its meaning has evolved over time.
• Usage : “It’s quite cold out.” or “She’s quite the expert.”
• Meaning : A brand of light, curly potato snack. Can also refer to a musical note.
• Origin : The snack’s name might have been inspired by its lightness, much like the musical note’s short duration.
• Usage : “Fancy a pack of quavers?”

Quick-sticks

• Meaning : Quickly or in a hurry.
• Origin : The exact origin is uncertain but may be related to the idea of moving quickly, as with “sticks” or legs.
• Usage : “Get here quick-sticks!”

Quockerwodger

• Meaning : A wooden puppet controlled by strings. Can also refer to a politician whose actions are controlled by someone else.
• Origin : A combination of “quock”, an old word for wood, and “wodger”, meaning thing or creature.
• Usage : “He’s nothing but a quockerwodger, doing whatever they tell him.”

Quids for quacks

• Meaning : Money for nothing or very little effort.
• Origin : An alteration of “quids in”, with “quacks” possibly being a nonsensical addition for rhyme.
• Usage : “If we can automate it, it’s quids for quacks.”
• Meaning : Trash, garbage. Can also be used to describe something that’s not very good.
• Origin : Derived from Middle English “rubbous” meaning debris.
• Usage : “Take out the rubbish.” or “That film was rubbish.”
• Meaning : Very drunk.
• Origin : Origin unclear, but it’s a colorful way to describe someone who is beyond tipsy.
• Usage : “He got completely rat-arsed last night.”
• Meaning : An argument or a noisy disturbance.
• Origin : Comes from the Old English “rāw” which means “row or line”, potentially from the noise made in a line of disputing people.
• Usage : “They had a right old row.”
• Meaning : Money, specifically cash.
• Origin : Referring to the reddish color of British banknotes.
• Usage : “Do you have any reddies on you?”
• Meaning : Tea.
• Origin : Cockney rhyming slang. Rosie Lee rhymes with tea.
• Usage : “Fancy a cup of Rosie Lee?”
• Meaning : To call someone on the phone.
• Origin : Refers to the ringing sound phones used to make.
• Usage : “I’ll ring you later.”
• Meaning : Something that’s overpriced or a fraud.
• Origin : Originated in the 1960s in the context of theft.
• Usage : “That bag is a total rip-off.”
• Meaning : Cash or money that’s ready to be spent.
• Origin : Refers to the readiness of the cash to be used.
• Usage : “I’ve got my readies, let’s go shopping.”
• Meaning : A disturbance or quarrel.
• Origin : Possibly from the word “eruption” indicating a sudden outburst.
• Usage : “There were ructions when he arrived.”

Rumpy pumpy

• Meaning : A euphemism for sexual activity.
• Origin : Thought to have originated in the 1970s, playful and non-specific term.
• Usage : “They sneaked off for a bit of rumpy pumpy.”
• Meaning : A series of drinks bought for a group at a bar.
• Origin : Refers to the idea of everyone having a turn to buy a “round” of drinks.
• Usage : “It’s your turn to buy the next round.”
• Meaning : To avoid work or duty; to shirk.
• Origin : Originated from the French word “esquiver”, meaning “to dodge”.
• Usage : “He’s trying to skive off work again.”
• Meaning : A derogatory term often used to describe a woman who is considered promiscuous. Can also mean to criticize or insult someone.
• Origin : Derived from the old Norse word “slagg”, which refers to metal impurities.
• Usage : “Don’t slag her off just because you disagree.”

Sod’s law

• Meaning : A pseudolaw reflecting the principle that things will go wrong at the worst possible moment.
• Origin : “Sod” is derived from “sodomite”, and the law refers to the idea that “if something can go wrong, it will”.
• Usage : “Of course it rained as soon as the BBQ started. Sod’s law, isn’t it?”
• Meaning : Completely naked.
• Origin : Possibly derived from “stark naked”, with “stark” meaning completely or absolutely.
• Usage : “He ran through the field starkers!”
• Meaning : A long, passionate kiss.
• Origin : Possibly from the Old Norse “snogga”, meaning “to snuggle”.
• Usage : “They had a good snog at the end of the date.”
• Origin : Originated from the British naval slang.
• Usage : “I’m starving, let’s get some scran.”
• Meaning : Having no money; broke.
• Origin : Potentially derived from “skinned”, implying nothing left.
• Usage : “I can’t go out tonight, I’m skint.”

Spend a penny

• Meaning : A euphemism for going to the toilet.
• Origin : Refers to the old practice of having to pay a penny to use a public restroom.
• Usage : “Excuse me, I need to spend a penny.”
• Meaning : A large and luxurious meal.
• Origin : Thought to derive from the idea of food being slapped onto a plate.
• Usage : “We had a slap-up meal at that new restaurant.”
• Meaning : Organized, arranged, or resolved.
• Origin : From the traditional definition of “sort”, to arrange or set in some kind of order.
• Usage : “Got my weekend plans all sorted.”
• Meaning : Ingratiating and wheedling in a way that is perceived as insincere or excessive.
• Origin : Unknown, but has been in use since the late 19th century.
• Usage : “He’s such a smarmy salesman.”
• Meaning : Irritable or short-tempered.
• Origin : Possibly from the idea of someone’s collar getting tight when they’re angry.
• Usage : “Don’t get shirty with me!”
• Meaning : A derogatory slang term for a person considered to be foolish or contemptible.
• Origin : Derives from “toss off”, a slang term for male masturbation, but its usage has broadened to be a general insult.
• Usage : “Don’t listen to him; he’s a complete tosser.”
• Meaning : Television.
• Origin : Simply a shortened form of the word “television”.
• Usage : “What’s on the telly tonight?”
• Origin : Unknown, but has been in use since the early 20th century.
• Usage : “You can be such a twit sometimes.”
• Meaning : A colloquial term for the male genitalia.
• Origin : Unknown.
• Usage : “He got hit right in the todger with that football.”

Take the piss

• Meaning : To mock, ridicule, or take advantage of someone.
• Origin : Possibly related to old slang meaning being “annoyed” or “disgruntled”.
• Usage : “Are you taking the piss out of me?”

Tickety-boo

• Meaning : Fine, okay, or in satisfactory condition.
• Origin : Likely from the Hindu “ṭhīk hai, bābū”, which means “It’s alright, sir”.
• Usage : “Everything’s tickety-boo on my end.”
• Meaning : Refers to a woman who dresses in a provocative manner. Also refers to a loved one or sweetheart, similar to “dear” or “darling”.
• Origin : Shortened from “sweetheart”.
• Usage : “Hello, tart. How was your day?”
• Meaning : Nonsense or rubbish.
• Origin : Possibly from Romani “tajo”, meaning “thing”.
• Usage : “That’s complete tosh!”
• Meaning : Two shillings in pre-decimal currency. Used in phrases to indicate something is cheap or of low quality.
• Origin : Refers to the British pre-decimal currency system.
• Usage : “It looks a bit two bob, doesn’t it?”

Throw a wobbly

• Meaning : To get very angry or to throw a tantrum.
• Origin : Possibly from the visual of something wobbling out of control.
• Usage : “She threw a wobbly when she found out.”
• Meaning : A small amount of money. Historically, it referred to two pennies.
• Origin : From the old British coinage system.
• Usage : “I wouldn’t pay tuppence for that.”
• Meaning : To refill a drink or increase the amount of credit on a mobile phone or card.
• Origin : Literal meaning of adding to the top of something.
• Usage : “Could you top up my wine, please?”

Up the duff

• Meaning : Pregnant.
• Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but it’s been in use since at least the early 20th century.
• Usage : “Did you hear? She’s up the duff.”
• Meaning : Anxious or angry in a tense and overly controlled way.
• Origin : Thought to originate in the late 1930s from “up-tight”, meaning in a state of tension or high alert.
• Usage : “Don’t get so uptight about it.”

Use your loaf

• Meaning : Use your head or think about it.
• Origin : Cockney rhyming slang – “loaf of bread” = “head”.
• Usage : “Come on, use your loaf!”
• Meaning : Short for “university”.
• Origin : Simply an abbreviation.
• Usage : “He’s off to uni next month.”
• Meaning : Stimulant drugs, especially amphetamines.
• Origin : Refers to the stimulating, “upper” effect of the drugs.
• Usage : “He’s been taking uppers all night.”

Under the weather

• Meaning : Feeling ill or out of sorts.
• Origin : Possibly nautical in origin, referring to sailors who went below deck due to illness, thus being under the weather.
• Usage : “I’m feeling a bit under the weather today.”
• Meaning : Eager or willing to try something out or participate.
• Origin : Simply a direct meaning of the words, indicating one’s readiness or willingness.
• Usage : “Are you up for a game of footy?”
• Meaning : To move from one’s current place of residence.
• Origin : Possibly from the idea of picking up one’s belongings (like a tent or campsite) to move.
• Usage : “They’ve upped sticks and moved to the coast.”

Up one’s street

• Meaning : Suited to one’s tastes or abilities.
• Origin : Likely derived from the idea of something being in one’s neighborhood or area of expertise.
• Usage : “Cooking? That’s right up her street.”
• Meaning : A board game played in the Royal Navy, similar to Ludo.
• Origin : Shortened form of “Uckers Bucker”, a variation of the name “Ludo”.
• Usage : “Fancy a game of uckers?”
• Meaning : Annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
• Origin : From Old French vexer , or Latin vexare meaning ‘to shake, jolt, or annoy’.
• Usage : “I was really vexed when he didn’t show up on time.”
• Meaning : A traditional Romany wagon or caravan.
• Origin : From the Romani word for wagon.
• Usage : “They traveled around the country in a colorful vardo.”
• Meaning : Relax to the point of complete inertia.
• Origin : Derived from the word “vegetable”, implying the inactive state of vegetables.
• Usage : “After a long day at work, I just want to veg out in front of the TV.”
• Meaning : Somewhat or nearly.
• Origin : Derived from the word “very” with the “-ish” suffix.
• Usage : “The color is veryish like the one I wanted.”
• Meaning : Energy or enthusiasm.
• Origin : Possibly from Latin “vim”, the accusative case of “vis” meaning “force” or “power”.
• Usage : “She tackled the project with vim and vigor.”
• Meaning : Wine.
• Origin : Shortened form of the Spanish/Italian word “vino”, meaning wine.
• Usage : “Let’s crack open a bottle of vino.”
• Meaning : Emergency money carried by a woman in case a date goes poorly.
• Origin : From the term “vex”, meaning to be annoyed. The idea is having money in case one is annoyed or inconvenienced.
• Usage : “Always have some vex money with you just in case.”

Vapours, the

• Meaning : A dated reference to a swooning fit or a state of nervousness or anxiety.
• Origin : Historically, believed to be related to fumes from the womb affecting the brain, a once-popular medical theory.
• Usage : “She got the vapours when she saw the price tag.”
• Meaning : Short for “vegetable” or “vegetarian”.
• Usage : “Are there any veg options on the menu?”

Village bike

• Meaning : A derogatory term referring to a woman who is considered promiscuous.
• Origin : The implication being that everyone in the village has “had a ride”.
• Usage : (This term is derogatory and should be avoided)
• Meaning : To speak or write at length in a vague or trivial manner.
• Origin : Possibly related to the weaving pattern of a waffle, going back and forth without clear direction.
• Usage : “He tends to waffle on without making a clear point.”
• Meaning : A humorous or mischievous person; also refers to truanting from school.
• Origin : Shortened form of “waghalter”, a 16th-century term for a mischievous boy.
• Usage : “He’s such a wag, always up to some prank.”
• Meaning : Effort or force. Also refers to wellington boots.
• Origin : “Welly” for force might come from ‘give it some welly’, meaning to put effort into something; the boot is from the Duke of Wellington.
• Usage : “Put some welly into it!” or “It’s raining; best wear your wellies.”
• Meaning : To complain persistently and in a peevish or irritating way.
• Origin : From Old English “hwinsian” meaning ‘to whine’.
• Usage : “He does nothing but whinge about the weather.”
• Meaning : To tease or to irritate someone intentionally; or to conclude something.
• Origin : Possibly from the winding motion, as in winding a clock, leading to the idea of ‘setting someone off’.
• Usage : “Are you winding me up?” or “Let’s wind up this meeting.”
• Meaning : Not straight; shaky or unsteady; not reliable.
• Origin : Unknown, first known use in the 1910s.
• Usage : “That shelf looks a bit wonky.”
• Meaning : A greeting, short for “what cheer” or “what do you say”.
• Origin : Derived from “what chere be with you?” which is Middle English.
• Usage : “Wotcha mate, how’s it going?”
• Meaning : A derogatory term used to describe someone acting in an undesirable manner.
• Origin : British slang, referring to masturbation.
• Usage : “Don’t be such a wanker.”

Wardrobe malfunction

• Meaning : An unintended exposure of bodily parts.
• Origin : Popularized after the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show incident involving Janet Jackson.
• Usage : “She had a minor wardrobe malfunction during the event, but handled it gracefully.”
• Meaning : Out of order; not right. Also can mean to hit something.
• Origin : Old English “whacian”, meaning ‘to strike’.
• Usage : “That’s totally whack.” or “I might whack the TV to get it working.”
• Meaning : Suitable for adults only because of sexual or violent content.
• Origin : Originally a film classification in the UK from the British Board of Film Censors (now the British Board of Film Classification). It was introduced in 1951 and was replaced by the “18” rating in 1982.
• Usage : “That movie isn’t for kids; it’s X-rated.”

X-marks-the-spot

• Meaning : A phrase used to indicate a precise location, especially on a map or diagram.
• Origin : Often linked with pirate tales where X would mark the location of hidden treasure on a map.
• Usage : “You’ll find the building right here, X-marks-the-spot.”
• Meaning : To talk incessantly.
• Origin : Possibly onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of constant chatter.
• Usage : “She just yaks on and on about her holidays.”
• Meaning : To pull with a jerk; also a colloquial term for an American.
• Origin : For pulling – Old English “geonc”, meaning ‘to pull’; for American – Short for “Yankee”, which has origins dating to the American Revolutionary War.
• Usage : “Yank that cord!” or “He’s a Yank, from New York.”
• Meaning : A very long time.
• Origin : Possibly a corrupted version of “donkey’s years”, which also means a long time.
• Usage : “I haven’t seen him in yonks.”
• Meaning : A rude or uncouth person.
• Origin : It’s “boy” spelled backward and is believed to have been used as a code by Victorian prison guards to refer to troublesome inmates.
• Usage : “Don’t hang around with those yobs.”
• Meaning : A young professional person working in a city.
• Origin : 1980s: abbreviation of ‘young upwardly mobile professional’.
• Usage : “The city center is full of yuppies.”
• Meaning : A long, often elaborate narrative of real or fictive adventures; an entertaining tale.
• Origin : Old English “gearn”, in the sense of ‘spun thread’.
• Usage : “He always has a good yarn to share about his travels.”
• Meaning : To talk persistently and loudly.
• Origin : Middle English, from Old English “geomrian” to lament; akin to Old High German “jammern” to moan.
• Usage : “She’d yammer on about her problems to anyone who’d listen.”
• Meaning : An expression of excitement or enthusiasm.
• Origin : Perhaps a variant of German “Jawohl” or simply an expressive formation.
• Usage : “Yowser! That’s an impressive trick.”
• Meaning : Sleep.
• Origin : From the letter ‘Z’, often associated with sleeping sounds in comic strips.
• Usage : “I need to catch some zeds before the big day tomorrow.”
• Meaning : Extremely tired or exhausted; sometimes used to mean intoxicated or drugged.
• Origin : 1960s, perhaps echoing the sound of a heavy object hitting the ground.
• Usage : “After that long hike, I’m absolutely zonked.”
• Meaning : A pattern made up of small corners at variable angles.
• Origin : Late 17th century, from French. It’s imitative, from the sound of something moving to and fro.
• Usage : “The road goes in a zigzag up the mountain.”
• Meaning : A man’s suit with high-waisted, wide-legged, tight-cuffed trousers and a long coat with padded shoulders.
• Origin : 1930s and 1940s, especially in the Hispanic community in the US. From “zoot” which is possibly a reduplication of “suit”.
• Usage : “He wore a zoot suit with a reet pleat.”
• Meaning : Nothing at all.
• Origin : 1960s, perhaps from US slang “zilchus” meaning ‘worthless person’, of unknown origin.
• Usage : “How much money do you have? Zilch.”
• Meaning : Lively, energetic.
• Origin : 1960s, of unknown origin; perhaps related to zap.
• Usage : “It was a zappy tune that got everyone on their feet.”
• Meaning : A magazine, especially a self-published or underground publication.
• Origin : Shortened from “magazine”.
• Usage : “She publishes her poetry in a quarterly zine.”
• Meaning : Move or travel very quickly; or increase suddenly and significantly.
• Origin : Onomatopoeic; mimicking the sound of a fast-moving object.
• Usage : “He zoomed past me on the motorway.”
• Meaning : Police patrol cars.
• Origin : From the 1962-1978 BBC television drama series “Z-Cars”.
• Usage : “Call the Zed Cars to the scene.”
• Meaning : Make more exciting, lively, or attractive.
• Origin : 1970s, possibly from Polari, the coded language used by some gay men in Britain in the mid-20th century, from Romani “žužo” ‘clean, neat’.
• Usage : “She zhooshed up her outfit with some flashy accessories.”

That’s it for our list of British slang! Thanks for continuing to expand your vocabulary with us.  Did we miss something? Let us know down below in the comments ⤵.

Fascinated by Slang ? Explore More ! Discover other captivating slang terms and their origins. Here are a few more gems for you:

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A Cruise Glossary: Cruise Lingo You Should Know

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: August 29, 2020  - Last updated: January 23, 2023

On your first cruise, you’ll find that seasoned cruisers often tend to speak in cruise lingo. It’s a mix of nautical terms, cruise slang, and abbreviations that might send your head spinning if you’re unfamiliar.

But you’ll probably even encounter some unfamiliar cruise lingo before you set foot on the ship! When you’re booking a cruise, you’ll see lots of these cruise terms when you’re choosing an itinerary and picking your stateroom.

Let’s go over some cruise terminology you’ll want to know before you book your cruise, and what words you’ll want to be familiar with once you’re on board.

Terms you should know when booking a cruise

All-inclusive: a policy where all food, drinks, and entertainment are included in your cruise fare. Luxury cruise lines tend to be far more all-inclusive than mainstream cruise lines. Some luxury lines include airfare, shore excursions, and gratuities as part of the fare.

Read more: Which Cruise Lines Are All-Inclusive?

Balcony:  Sometimes called a verandah, a balcony is a private outdoor space attached to a stateroom. Most balconies face out to the water, but some large ships have interior balconies facing public areas.

Back-to-back: (Often written BTB or B2B) is the cruise term for booking two or more sailings in a row on the same ship.

Booze cruise: A slang term for a very short cruise sailing where many passengers’ primary objective is to drink a lot of alcohol. Some cruisers looking for a short relaxing getaway are often shocked that they’ve inadvertently booked a rowdy booze cruise.

Read more: Pros and Cons of Taking a Short Cruise (2-5 Days)

Closed-loop sailing:  A roundtrip itinerary that begins and ends in the same port. For ships sailing from United States ports, closed-loop sailings often have more relaxed rules that the cruise lines need to follow compared to cruises that begin and end in different ports.

Read more: Why Do Most US Cruises Have to Stop in a Foreign Port?

Cruise to nowhere : A short voyage in which a cruise ship leaves the embarkation port, sails in international waters for several days, then returns to the embarkation port without stopping at another destination. Cruises to nowhere are somewhat popular in Europe and Australia. The US banned this kind of cruise for foreign-flagged ships in 2016.

Cruisetour: A land-based excursion, usually by coach, that cruisers can take before or after a voyage.

Double occupancy: A policy requiring that a minimum of two cruise fares must be paid for a stateroom. Solo travelers booking a double occupancy cabin must pay a single supplement, often 100% of the fare, to book that room.

Expedition cruise: Sometimes called an adventure cruise, expedition cruises often visit far-flung locations like Alaska, Antarctica, or the Galápagos Islands. Ships are generally smaller and purpose-built. Expedition cruises offer more active excursions like hiking, kayaking, and nature walks, and enrichment lectures focus on the destination’s culture, history, and wildlife.

Read more: What Is an Expedition Cruise (and Why You Should Consider One)

French balcony: Although not technically a balcony, a French balcony is the term for a large sliding glass door that opens to the outside, but doesn’t have seating space. French balconies are often found on river cruise ships.

Gratuities: Tips paid to cruise ship staff by passengers. Gratuities for service crew accrue daily (often called automatic gratuities or autograts), and can be pre-paid or settled at the end of the cruise. Specialty dining and drink packages also include gratuities, so there’s no need to tip extra.

Read more: Tipping on a Cruise Ship: What You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities

Guarantee stateroom: A fare class where cruisers are assigned a cabin from unallocated inventory before sailing. Cruisers will receive a stateroom assignment in the cabin category they paid for, or one in a higher category.

Read more: What Is a Guarantee Stateroom on a Cruise (and Should You Book One)?

Interior:  Also called an “inside cabin”, an interior is a stateroom that’s located away from the hull of the ship, in the ship’s interior. Inside cabins don’t have windows to the outside, although some newer ships might include a virtual window or a window to the interior of the ship.

Read more: Is an Interior Cabin Right for Your Cruise?

Loyalty program: A free plan that gives perks and discounts to repeat cruisers on the same cruise line. Cruise line loyalty programs often have several tiers, with more valuable perks offered to passengers who have sailed many times.

OBC: Onboard credit issued as a perk for booking a cruise, or as compensation for a negative event during the voyage. OBC can be used on the ship to pay for items in the ship’s stores, shore excursions, and specialty dining.

Obstructed view: A window or balcony that’s blocked by an object, usually a lifeboat. Obstructions can partially or completely block a window.

Ocean view:  A stateroom with a porthole or window facing the ocean.

Open-jaw sailing: A one-way cruise itinerary where the embarkation port and disembarkation port are not the same.

Port fees: Charges from the cruise port to the cruise line, which are passed on to the passenger at booking. Some ports charge more than others, so port fees can be adjusted if stops on the itinerary are canceled or changed.

Pullman bed: A bed that pulls down from the wall or ceiling of a stateroom to allow higher occupancy in a room. Cabin stewards set up and stow Pullman beds if anyone in your cabin will be using them.

Repositioning cruise: Sometimes called a repo cruise, repositioning cruises take ships from their seasonal home port to their home port for the next season. Repo cruises are generally long sailings with lots of sea days, and are often sold at bargain prices.

Shoulder season: The time period at the beginning and end of the busiest season for cruises in a given area. Cruise fares in the shoulder season can be significantly cheaper than in the peak tourist season.

You may also like: What is the Cheapest Month to Cruise?

Single supplement: The fee that solo cruisers must pay to book a double-occupancy stateroom. It’s usually 100% of the cruise fare, but some cruise lines slightly discount the supplement.

Stateroom: Also called a cabin, a stateroom on a cruise ship is a passenger’s on board accommodation. Staterooms can vary in size from tiny interior cabins to massive owner’s suites with several bedrooms and living areas.

Studio: Sometimes called a solo cabin, studios are small staterooms on some cruise ships that can accommodate a single cruiser. Studio cabins are an economical way for solo cruisers to travel, as a single supplement isn’t required.

Suite:  Larger accommodations on a cruise ship, often with separate living and sleeping rooms. Many cruise lines extend perks to suite guests, like private dining rooms, priority lines, or even butler service.

Theme cruise: A chartered cruise that appeals to a particular audience. Theme cruises for fans of a musical group or style are the most common, but other types of theme cruises center around health and wellness, or crafts. LGBTQ+ cruises are also a popular theme for chartered sailings.

Check out my list of Sweepstakes You Can Enter to Win a Free Cruise to find out how you could win tickets on a theme cruise!

Transfer: The term for coach transportation between the cruise ship and the airport or a hotel you booked through the cruise line before or after a cruise. Transfers are also often included with pre- and post-cruise shore excursions and cruisetours booked through the cruise line.

Mini-suite: Also called junior suites, mini-suites are a type of stateroom that’s usually a bit larger than a balcony cabin but smaller than a full suite. Mini-suites have a separate living space set off from the sleeping area by a partial wall or a privacy curtain. Guests in mini-suites usually don’t share in the added perks that suite guests enjoy, but some cruise lines offer special fare classes for this type of stateroom that allow you to enjoy some of the benefits.

Virtual balcony/virtual porthole: A high-definition screen mounted on the wall of an inside cabin to simulate the look and feel of a balcony or window. The screen shows a real-time feed from the exterior of the ship.

Wave season: The three-month period from January through March when cruise lines typically offer the best deals of the year.

Read more: How to Save Money on Cruises

General cruise ship terms you should know

All-aboard: The time all cruisers need to be aboard the ship on embarkation day and after each day in port. These times are listed in the daily planner, as well as on signs as you exit the ship. All-aboard time is always in ship’s time, which may differ from local time.

Bunkering: A ship’s term for refueling in port. Marine fuel is known as “bunker”, a term that most likely comes from the place a ship’s fuel is stored: the fuel bunker.

Charter: When a company or group books the entire ship (a full charter) or a large amount of cabins (a partial charter). Groups often book charters for theme cruises or corporate retreats.

Crossing:  A cruise across an ocean, such as a transatlantic or transpacific voyage.

Cruise card: A credit card-sized plastic card that each cruiser receives at check-in, linked to your onboard account. The cruise card serves as your boarding pass each time you return to the ship. As cruise ships are an almost cashless environment (except for in some casinos or if you want to give someone an extra tip), cruise cards are used to pay for everything around the ship from purchases in the shops to drinks at the bar.

Daily planner: A newsletter delivered to cruisers each day. The daily planner details times and locations of the next day’s activities. The planner also provides a weather report, port information, and any important announcements cruisers need to know. Each cruise line calls the daily planner by a different brand-specific name. Some cruise lines offer paperless planners via a smartphone app.

Departure port or embarkation port:  The port where your cruise begins.

Disembarkation:  The process of exiting the ship. You’ll sometimes hear this called “debarkation”. Most cruisers only use this term to refer to leaving the ship at the end of a cruise, but it technically can refer to any time you leave the ship.

Disembarkation Day: The last day on board the ship, when passengers leave at the end of a cruise. Disembarkation day isn’t a full cruise day—passengers generally need to disembark in the mid-morning at the latest.

Dry dock: A structure that’s flooded to allow a ship to float in, and is then drained once the ship is in position. This allows workers access to parts of the ship that are usually underwater to perform maintenance. Often when you hear that a ship “just came out of dry dock”, it means that major maintenance or refurbishments were just completed.

Embarkation: The process of entering the ship. Most cruisers only use this term to refer to boarding the ship at the beginning of a cruise, but it technically can refer to any time you come aboard the ship.

Embarkation Day: The day that passengers board the ship at the beginning of the cruise.

Read more: How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

FCC: an abbreviation for Future Cruise Credit, FCC may be used in lieu of cash to pay for all or part of a future cruise. FCC is issued if a sailing is canceled and the cruiser opts to not receive a cash refund of their fare. Cruise lines may also award FCC due to a major customer service issue.

Future Cruise Deposit: Similar to FCC, Future Cruise Deposits can be used to pay for part of a future cruise fare. These deposits can often be purchased at a heavy discount during a sailing to apply to another cruise.

Godmother: The honorary protector of a ship who blesses and officially names the vessel before its inaugural sailing. Traditionally the role of a well-known female, today some cruise ships have godfathers. Notable cruise ship godmothers and godfathers include Queen Elizabeth, Oprah Winfrey, activist Malala Yousafzai, and rapper Pitbull.

Read more: What Is a Cruise Ship Godmother (or Godfather)?

Itinerary: The list of ports visited on a cruise.

Muster drill: Also called the safety drill or lifeboat drill, the muster drill is a mandatory safety demonstration that all cruisers must attend. It’s usually held on the afternoon of embarkation day.

Open tender: The time when any guest can go ashore at a tender port of call (see “tender ports” below) without a ticket. Open tender generally happens after all passengers with tender tickets have left the ship, although later tenders will often take guests who didn’t pick up a ticket prior to tendering.

Pier: A fixed structure that allows a cruise ship to dock in a port. Passengers can disembark at a pier and walk directly ashore without tendering.

Pier runners: The slang term for cruisers who are late getting back to the ship for all aboard. Pier runners are generally seen frantically running toward the ship. Spotting (and heckling) them is a favorite pastime of some cruisers.

Read more: 35 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise

Port of call:  Any destination on a cruise where the ship stops and lets passengers off for the day. Usually just called a port.

Private island: An exclusive destination that only cruise ship passengers can visit. Some cruise ship private islands are entire islands, and some are private sections of an island.

Read more: 12 Amazing Cruise Line Private Islands to Visit in 2021 and Beyond

Sea day: A day on a cruise itinerary when the ship doesn’t stop at any port.

Ship: The cruise vessel you’ll be traveling on. Call it a “boat” at your own risk! (This might be the #1 way to be identified as a new cruiser.) Boats are nautical vessels that can be carried by a larger boat or ship. Examples include lifeboats and tender boats.

Ship’s time: The time zone that the ship’s operations use on any given day. This is often local time, but not always! For example, a ship might visit several ports that are in close proximity to one another but in different time zones. To avoid switching in and out of time zones, the Captain might choose not to change to local time.

Shore excursion:  Sometimes abbreviated as “shorex”, a shore excursion is an activity at a port of call booked with the cruise line, a tour company, or as a DIY activity.

Stabilizers: A set of fins or rotors on ocean-going ships that reduce a ship’s rolling motion from waves or wind.

Tender: A smaller boat that ferries passengers from the ship to the shore (and back) when the cruise ship anchors in a harbor. Passage on tender boats is always free of charge, but guests without cruise line excursions often need to pick up a tender ticket or wait until open tender to secure a spot on a boat.

Tender port: Ports of call with shallow harbors (or limited piers for cruise ships) often force ships to anchor offshore and ferry passengers in on tenders.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise

Zodiac: An inflatable, rigid-bottomed boat used to transport expedition cruise passengers away from the ship.

Read more: What Is a Zodiac Boat on an Expedition Cruise?

Helpful cruise terms for around the ship

Aft:  The rear part of a ship. The opposite end of the ship from forward. Also used to specify which way you’re walking on a cruise ship, e.g. “Head aft and you’ll see the main pool.”

Atrium: The central part of a ship’s interior, with an open floor plan. A ship’s atrium often spans several decks and is where you’ll find guest services, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Forward: The front section of the ship. The opposite end of the ship from aft. Also used to specify which way you’re walking on a cruise ship, e.g. “Head forward and you’ll see the library on your right.”

Bow:  The very front of the ship. Bow is pronounced to rhyme with “cow”—not like the word that refers to a ribbon tied in a fancy knot.

Bridge:  The location where the captain or officers command the ship.

Deck: Although today’s mega cruise ships can often feel like enormous resorts where you could easily forget that you’re even at sea, you’re still on a ship. Although you might be tempted to tell your family “Meet me at the pool on the seventeenth floor”, seasoned cruisers don’t call the levels on the ship “floors”. They’re decks. That pool? It’s on Deck 17. Or just say “Meet me on the Lido in an hour”.

Duty-free: Shops on board a cruise ship that sell products without having to collect local import taxes. Alcohol, tobacco products, and cosmetics are popular duty-free items.

Galley:  A kitchen on a cruise ship.

Gangway: The ramp or stairs that you use to embark or disembark the ship.

Hull:  The outer waterproof covering of the ship, from below the lowest open decks to the keel. A cruise ship’s hull is made of welded steel panels.

Keel:  The bottom center line of a ship, running from bow to stern.

Leeward:  The side of the ship that’s most sheltered from the wind. This side can vary based on the direction of the wind and the direction a ship is sailing. The opposite of windward.

Lido:  Also called the pool deck, the Lido is the deck where you’ll find the outdoor pools, sun loungers, and live entertainment.

Midship:  The middle area of the ship between forward and aft.

Muster station: A meeting point for guests and assigned crew in case of an emergency. Muster stations are assigned by cabin location, and are usually located on open decks near the lifeboats.

Port:  The left side of the ship as you face forward.

Promenade deck: A deck designed for walking in a circular path around the perimeter of the ship. Promenade decks traditionally were open decks, but today’s cruise ships sometimes have them partially or fully enclosed.

Starboard:  The right side of the ship as you face forward.

Read more: Port vs Starboard: Which Side Is Better on a Cruise?

Stern: The aft-most section of a cruise ship.

Windward: The side of the ship that’s least sheltered from the wind. This side can vary based on the direction of the wind and the direction a ship is sailing. The opposite of leeward.

Dining and Entertainment terms on a cruise ship

Captain’s table : The table where the Captain eats dinner, often with senior officers and invited guests. Passengers are sometimes invited to join by formal invitation, and this is considered to be quite an honor.

Captain’s party: Usually held on the first formal night of a sailing, the Captain’s party or ball is open to all passengers. During the party, which is often held in the atrium, guests will have the opportunity to chat and take photos with the Captain and officers. Often, complimentary Champagne or sparkling wine is served.

Resort casual:  The general dress code on many of today’s cruise ships, especially in the main dining rooms. It usually includes trousers and capris, casual dresses and skirts, polos or dressier tops, and dressy jeans. Some cruise lines have specific rules around shorts, sleeveless tops, or t-shirts, so check with your cruise line for their specific rules.

Formal attire:  For cruise lines that have formal nights, this is the dress code in the main dining rooms on these evenings. Dress code varies by cruise line, but many passengers wear cocktail dresses or longer gowns, a blazer, suit, or tuxedo.

Formal night: On more traditional cruise lines, there are often one or more evenings each week when formal attire is required in the main dining rooms. Formal nights often take place on sea days, and are announced in the daily newsletter.

Friends of Bill W . : The cruise ship term for an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting on board.

Friends of Dorothy: The cruise ship term for LGBTQIA+ meetings and activities on board.

MDR: The main dining room (or dining rooms) on a cruise ship.

Read more: What New Cruisers Don’t Know About Cruise Food & Drinks

Seating: On cruise ships with assigned dining times, there’s often more than one set dinner time. These times, known as seatings, are spaced several hours apart.

Served buffet: A style of buffet where each guest indicates which dishes they’d like to have, and crewmembers place their servings on a plate. Served buffets are popular on luxury cruise lines, although mainstream cruise lines will offer served buffets during times of increased risk of disease transmission.

Open seating:  On cruise lines that allow guests to eat dinner on their own schedule, at least one dining room will have open seating. Passengers don’t need to make a reservation or dine at a specific time.

Sailaway party: On embarkation day, the cruise director and entertainment staff host a party, often on the Lido deck, to celebrate leaving port and the beginning of the cruise. Sailaway parties often feature live music and dancing.

Specialty restaurant: A dining venue on a cruise ship that offers elevated cuisine and service for an extra fee. Specialty restaurants often serve food from a specific region, like Italian, French, or Japanese. Or they may specialize in seafood, BBQ, or steak dishes.

Terms for cruise ship employees

Butler: Some cruise lines employ butlers, generally for suite guests, who pick up where cabin stewards leave off. Butlers can pack and unpack your luggage, make dinner reservations, take care of laundry service, and arrange in-suite dinner or cocktail parties.

Cabin steward:  A crew member responsible for cleaning your stateroom, setting up beds, and delivering items like ice and extra hangers. Stewards are often excellent sources of information, especially for new cruisers and guests who are new to the cruise line.

Captain:  The cruise ship Captain holds the ultimate responsibility for safe transportation of the ship, passengers, and crew. They direct the ship’s navigation and make decisions to avoid hazards, especially those due to weather conditions. The Captain also socializes with passengers, notably at Captain’s table dinners and at the Captain’s party.

Crew: Service employees on the ship including waitstaff and cooks, bartenders, and cabin stewards. Skilled maintenance workers like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers are also considered crew.

Cruise director:  The staff member who organizes entertainment and activities on a cruise ship. A cruise director usually takes on the role of Master of Ceremonies during events and parties, and spends time mingling with guests to make sure everyone’s having a good time. Cruise directors also oversee the entertainment staff on board.

Dance Host: Sometimes called a “gentleman host”, male dance hosts are available on some of the more traditional cruise lines to dance and converse with unattached female cruisers. Dance hosts aren’t technically employed by the cruise line, but receive free or heavily discounted fares in exchange for their service.

Head Waiters: Although service levels in cruise ship restaurants are often impeccable (even on mainstream cruise lines), the Head Waiter in the MDR and in specialty restaurants is there to ensure service runs smoothly and guests enjoy the experience.

Maître d’:  A cruise ship Maître d’Hôtel (usually abbreviated as Maître d’, and pronounced “may-truh-DEE”) is in charge of operations for one or more restaurants on a cruise ship. Cruise ship passengers with dietary restrictions can usually speak with the Maître d’ to ensure kitchen and waitstaff comply with those needs, but sometimes the Head Waiter takes care of that function.

Officers: Employees on a cruise ship who oversee the safety, navigation and mechanical aspects of the ship. Officers report directly to the ship’s Captain.

Porter:  A baggage handler that takes your checked luggage on embarkation day and delivers it to the ship. Porters often aren’t cruise line employees, and they rely on tips (generally $1 to 2 per bag).

Purser:  The Purser on a cruise ship is the staff member in charge of guest billing and all monetary transactions on board.

Purser’s desk: Traditionally, the Purser’s desk is the place where guests can ask questions about charges to their on board account. Today, what used to be called the Purser’s Desk is generally called Guest Services, Passenger Services, or the Reception Desk. Cruisers can still ask questions about their onboard accounts, along with other general questions. If you have a problem with your cruise card not working, or you need to check the lost and found, this is where you need to go.

Staff: Cruise ship employees in upper-level positions including cruise directors, assistant cruise directors, entertainers, retail workers, and spa technicians.

Nautical terms cruisers should know

Knot:  The unit of speed used by ships. One knot is equivalent to one nautical mile per hour. In the 16th century, sailors used a rope with knots tied at intervals in a length of rope to measure speed. As the ship moved forward, the line of rope rolled out behind the ship. The number of knots that went over the ship’s stern during a period of time was used to calculate the speed.

You may also like: How Fast Do Cruise Ships Go?

Mooring:  A permanent structure to which a ship is tied, such as a pier when in port.

Wake:  The waves created by a ship as it moves through the water. The wake is seen as a churning trail of water at the stern of a ship.

What’s your favorite cruise lingo? Are there any cruise terms I should add to the glossary? Let me know in the comments below!

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Glossary of cruise lingo

A guide to help you navigate the jargon of the cruising world.

Cruiseable team

On a cruise ship

CruiseClout score: 95.0

Unless you're a cruise veteran, chances are you've come across the occasional term on a cruise or travel website that makes you wonder, Huh? What the heck does that mean?

The cruise landscape is riddled with insidery terms and strange lingo — but don’t feel intimidated! Here’s a quick guide to some of the terms you may encounter.

Come across a term that’s making you cross-eyed? Tell us and we’ll define it, add it to the list and credit you. 

Get a handle on cruise terms

Cruiseable team The Cruiseable editorial team consists of award-winning travel writers, cruise bloggers and journalists.

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An A-Z of cruising

Author: Saskia Den Boon

Published on: 13 July 2022

Updated on: 15 July 2022

Clueless about cruising? We’re here to help. Our A-Z of cruising terms will get you clued up in no time.

Ever wondered what an aft is? Or what starboard actually means? Nautical terms can tie us in knots – especially if, like me, you’re new to the cruise scene. With this in mind, I’ve compiled a comprehensive A-Z of cruising terms to help us both find our sea legs. Think of it as your essential guide to cruise ship terms. Take a little look, and soon we’ll all be speaking fluent sailor.

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Aft The back of the ship, also known as the stern.

Anytime dining This is ideal for passengers who want a little bit more flexibility in their schedules. Anytime dining allows you to choose your dining time.

Bow The front of the ship.

Bridge No... this is not an actual bridge. Or the card game. Rather, the term refers to where the captain and crew steer and navigate the ship.

Cabin steward The team member who is responsible for cleaning and maintaining your stateroom during the cruise. Make sure to say thanks when you spot them!

Capacity The number of passengers a ship can hold.

Captain Jack Sparrow. Just kidding – otherwise known as 'the Master' this is the person who oversees the ship, as well as crew and passenger safety. Coastal cruise When the ship hugs the coastline for the entire sailing.

Coastal cruise When the ship hugs the coastline for the entire sailing.

Crossing A voyage from one port to another on the open water. If you’re on an ocean cruise, you’re likely on a crossing.

Cruise casual This dress code generally refers to a relaxed dress code: casual skirts and trousers are permitted but swimwear, ripped jeans, and tank tops aren’t. That said, check your cruise line's dress code – some do allow denim.

Cruise director Basically, the cruise’s social planner. The person who schedules activities organises the entertainment and acts as the ship’s master of ceremonies.

Cruise elegant Cruise lines typically up the ante for one or two nights and invite guests to don something a little fancier – think cocktail dresses for women – for the evening.

Deck The ship’s equivalent of floors in a building.

Dock Where ships land, unload, and board. Usually a large platform.

Expedition cruise A specialised, smaller ship built to explore areas off the beaten track . Often featuring an ice-strengthened hull, this sort of vessel takes the daring and adventurous to remote – and usually chilly – regions of the planet.

Fly-cruises When you must book a flight to and from the port city where your cruise departs/ends.

Galley The ship’s kitchen area. *Yum*

Gangway The ramp/staircase you’ll use to embark and disembark the vessel.

Gratuities The extras – read food, drink, and tips – that aren’t included in your up-front cruise fare.

Helm Crew only, thank you! This is the part of the bridge that houses the steering wheel and a whole other bunch of buttons, bits, and bobs that only the crew knows how to operate.

Home port Where the ship begins the cruise journey. All aboard!

Hull The belly of the ship.

Inaugural cruise A ship’s maiden voyage… queue the pomp and circumstance.

Itinerary A schedule of all the fabulous places your ship will be visiting, including all the fun on-shore expeditions.

Jetty Basically, a dock, except it’s slightly more fun to say. Jetties are usually wooden or stone and are often used to protect harbours from rough tides.

Keel The bottom centre of the ship.

Knot Here’s some true nautical lingo for you! A knot is the unit of speed at which your cruise is cruising, equal to one nautical mile per hour.

Leeward Too windy? Has your hat blown off? Head to the leeward side of the ship – the term for whichever side is sheltered from the wind.

Lido The deck which typically houses the cruise’s pools. The place for a dip and a chance to cool off.

Liner A ship built to withstand rough seas while journeying through the open ocean. There is only one ocean liner in the world: step forward Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 , the last of her kind.

Maître d’ The crew member you’ll see first when you enter a cruise restaurant. Maître d’s are the hosts, supervisors, and managers of fine dining experiences onboard your cruise.

Midship The middle of the ship (surprise surprise).

Muster drill A mandatory safety drill during which crew members help passengers familiarise themselves with safety measures onboard the ship, including life vests and lifeboats.

No-fly cruises When you don’t have to book a flight to or from the port city where your cruise is launching. The opposite of Fly-cruises.

Ocean cruise Any cruise traversing the salty seas.

Ports of call Any destination listed on your itinerary where your cruise plans to stop. Here, you’ll hop off the ship for shore excursions, city strolls, beach days, museum visits, and more.

Quarter The part of the boat midway between the stern and the beam.

Repositioning cruises When a one-way cruise transitions to sail in a new region, with an entirely new itinerary.

River cruise Any cruise a-rolling on the river.

Sailaway party An enormous party on deck to celebrate the start of a ship’s sailing. Break out the champagne.

Sea day A day on which a ship remains at sea, with stopping at ports of call. Ah, relaxation.

Ship Also known as a vessel – whatever you do, don’t call her a boat. That’s just rude.

Shore excursion Time to hop off the ship and explore, be it on an organised excursion or under your own steam.

Single supplement A single supplement is a premium charged to people who take a room alone. However, times are changing and more cruise lines are scrapping single supplements for solo travellers. Specialty restaurants Many cruise lines now feature specialty dining options that are, well, special. They tend to be higher-end options, often involving partnerships with such world-renowned chefs as Thomas Keller, Daniel Bouloud, and Eric Lanlard, and a cover charge applies.

Starboard Aha. That one’s right. Right?

Staterooms A stateroom is the nautical term for your cabin or accommodation on a ship. Usually, you’ll have four categories to choose from: Inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite.

Stern The back of the ship.

Tender A small ship used to carry passengers from the ship to the dock when the cruise ship is unable to dock alongside the pier.

Themed cruise Spice up your holiday with a themed cruise. From history and wine tasting to painting and yoga, themed cruises bring like-minded people onboard to explore both their interests and the world together.

Turnaround day The changing of the guard, cruise style. This is the day when one set of passengers disembarks, and another set embarks.

Upper deck Where you’ll find me soaking up the sun and sipping bubbles once onboard. Wake The lovely trail of water behind the ship as it sails.

Windward The side of the ship where your hat blows off into the water and, sorry to say, you’ll probably never see it again.

World cruise Your ticket to see the world. World cruises can last for three, four, nine (or more) months, taking guests all over the globe. Passengers can join for the entire sailing or book a segment.

X-tras Actually, it’s just extras – the term for any additional activities, meals, or experiences which aren’t included in the overall cost for the cruise.

Yacht Some cruise lines have a collection of yachts that offer guests the most intimate of cruising experiences. Because these yachts are smaller ships, they can often take guests to more remote destinations.

Zenith A navigation term referring to the point which joins the centre of the earth, the observer, and the celestial sphere in a straight line. You don’t really need to remember this one… I just needed a Z.

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A Cruise Lingo Glossary to Make You Sound Like a Pro

By Andrea M. Rotondo

Do you know your roll from your wake ? Just like every other industry on the planet, the cruise business uses a few words and terms that may, at first glance, leave you scratching your head. For first-timers, here’s a quick reference cheat sheet that lists the most important lingo to know before your book your first cruise. We’ll talk about booking and cabin terms as well as crew and ship-specific lingo. Let’s dig in:

BOOKING TERMS

Cabin category: Every cruise ship offers accommodations in different categories, ranging from inside staterooms (no windows) to ocean view (with a porthole or panoramic windows) to balcony/veranda rooms to full-blown, multi-room suites. The higher the cabin category, the more you can expect to pay for those accommodations.

Charter: Any group of individuals—a company, church group, or family members—can charter all or part of a cruise ship. It’s a good idea to ask if there are any partial charters booked on any sailing you’re interested in taking. Sometimes large partial-ship charters book entire restaurants for certain nights of the cruise or can be disruptive to other passengers.

Crossing: If you book a “crossing,” that means your itinerary crosses the Atlantic or Pacific oceans.

Cruise contract: The cruise ticket contract lists the terms and conditions passengers agree to when they book a sailing. It lists all types of things, like what you can expect if your cruise is canceled or what happens if you miss embarkation due to travel delays. This document is filled with legalese but you should try to read through it before booking your voyage since you will be signing away some of your rights as soon as you make a payment.

Cruise fare: The cruise fare outlines how much each person will pay for the voyage and stipulates exactly what is included in that fare.

Deck plan: You can’t easily learn your way around a ship without first reviewing the deck plan. These illustrations show what type of staterooms are located on each deck along with the location of elevators, laundry rooms, restaurants, theaters, and shops.

Double occupancy: Most cruise fares are based on double occupancy. That means two people sharing one cabin.

Guarantee: Also known as “run of ship,” a guarantee is a type of cruise fare. You book a particular cabin category but are not assigned a cabin number. Instead, the cruise ship keeps selling that cabin category. If it sells out, you might be bumped up to a better stateroom category. If you’re not, you’re guaranteed a spot in the category you originally booked.

Itinerary: The itinerary lists the voyage’s schedule day by day, noting both ports of call and sea days.

Port expenses: Wherever you sail, each port of call will levy a charge based on local taxes and fees. That fee is charged to the cruise company, which then in turn charges it back to you. Cruise fares generally don’t include port expenses and other taxes and fees.

Repositioning cruise: This is a one-way itinerary that effectively moves a cruise ship from one part of the world to another. Look for repositioning cruises as the seasons change, as these itineraries are often well priced.

Sea day: A day in which the cruise ship does not visit a port of call and stays on the open water.

Shorex: This is the abbreviation for “shore excursion.” You can book a shorex through your cruise line or independently.

Single supplement: Cruise fares are based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo, you will likely be charged a single supplement. Some cruise ships charge 150 to 200 percent of the cruise fare while other ships offer a small number of single cabins that don’t cost extra. Most river cruise lines are moving away from the idea of the single supplement and offer sailings that won’t cost extra for solo travelers.

Transfer: A transfer can be the bus ride from the airport to your docked cruise ship or from the cruise ship to a hotel you’ve booked through the cruise line for a post-cruise stay. If you buy your airfare directly from the cruise line, it will usually include transfers to and from the ship. If you are traveling independent, you can inquire about paying extra for the ship-sponsored transfers.

CABIN TERMS

Butler: A butler assists cruisers with everyday tasks like unpacking and packing laundry and making restaurant and spa reservations. The butler also serves meals en-suite and can provide afternoon teatime snacks or cocktails before dinner.

Cabin: Your room aboard a cruise ship may be called a cabin or stateroom or, if you’ve upgraded to a higher category, a suite.

Cabin attendants: Cruise ship cabins are cleaned and serviced by cabin attendants, also known as stewards and stewardesses. Some cabin categories also come with butler service.

Cruise director: This person is the “face” of the cruise ship and acts as the emcee at events like the captain’s reception and deck parties.

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Purser: The ship’s purser handles all monetary transactions onboard. You can find him or her at the reception desk.

Bridge: The navigational control center of the ship is called the bridge. This area is usually off limits to passengers although smaller lines—like Windstar Cruises and Un-Cruise Adventures—do invite their guests to visit the bridge at certain times throughout the voyage.

Dock vs. tender: When you read your cruise brochure, the itinerary will list the ports of call and a note next to them will indicate either “dock” or “tender.” Dock means that the ship will actually pull up to the pier and deploy the gangway. You’ll simply walk off the ship into port. A tender port indicates that the ship will anchor in the bay near the port. You will board a smaller vessel that will ferry you between the cruise ship and port.

Embarkation/disembarkation: When you first board your cruise ship, you are embarking. You disembark the ship at the end of the cruise.

First seating/second seating: In the old days, almost all cruise ships had set dining times. You sat with the same people every night and ate your evening meal at the same time. First seating refers to the early dinnertime while second, or late, seating happens thereafter. But this sort of fixed seating arrangement has become less popular, as cruisers now tend to prefer open seating.

Galley: A ship’s kitchen is called the galley. Sometimes larger cruise ships offer fun galley tours.

Gangway: The gangway is the ramp or staircase you use to embark or disembark from the ship.

Muster/muster station: Every cruise passenger is assigned to a “muster station.” This is where you are instructed to gather—with your life jacket—in case of emergency. You will be called to your muster station at the beginning of your cruise so the crew can explain what to do in case of emergency.

Open seating: Many of today’s cruise ships have segued from fixed dining times to open seating, which means you can dine whenever you want and with whomever you want.

Roll: In rougher seas you might feel a little “roll,” the side-to-side movement of the ship.

Ship locations: Specific words are used to describe locations aboard watercraft. The stern is at the very back of the ship (aft is the back portion of the entire ship). The bow is the very front. Forward is near the front of the ship while midship is—you guessed it—the midpoint of the boat. Portside is the left side of the ship (as you face forward) while the starboard side is on the right. If you’re looking for the pool, head to the “lido” deck.

Specialty restaurant: A specialty, or alternative, restaurant requires a nightly per person fee in addition to your cruise fare.

Wake: The wake is the pretty trail of waves at the stern that’s created as the ship moves forward.

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Ocean Lingo: Glossary of Cruise Ship Terms

By Carnival Cruise Line

If you’re a newbie to cruising culture, take a few minutes to learn the cruise ship lingo. Knowing the language both on board and on shore will make you feel more at ease on your very first cruise . We’ve compiled a list of the most essential terms for you to be familiar with before you step on board.

From knowing the ins and outs of stateroom design to understanding cruise ship nautical terms, you’ll be ready to hit the waves with confidence.

Planning Your Cruise

• Crossing: A voyage across the water – in other words, a cruise is a crossing. For example, if you take a cruise to Europe , you can depart from New York and cross to ports of call, including Northern Ireland .
• Departure port/embarkation port: Both of these terms refer to the port or location where your cruise begins and ends . Carnival has many departure ports in the United States. For example, you can cruise to the Western Caribbean from the departure port of Mobile, Alabama .
• Disembarkation: This is when you leave the ship at the end of your trip.
• Embarkation: It’s when you board your cruise ship at the beginning of your trip.
• Port of call: A port of call is a destination on your cruise and where you’ll likely be able to enjoy shore excursions. For example, if you take a cruise to Mexico , you can depart from one of three ports in California and visit multiple ports of call in one trip, including Cozumel , Costa Maya and Mahogany Bay .
• Shore excursion: A shore excursion is an activity off the ship at a port of call that you can purchase as part of your itinerary. For example, if you cruise to The Bahamas , you can take a shore excursion in Half Moon Cay. You may want to book the educational Stingray Adventure shore excursion there that allows you to interact with the sea creatures.
• Tender: Also called a lifeboat, a tender is a small boat that takes you from the ship to shore when the cruise ship anchors in a harbor.

Stateroom Speak

Even before booking your cruise , you’ll want to know the types of staterooms that are available to ensure a comfortable trip. Whether you’re cruising solo or with a group, this list helps you choose the right stateroom for your needs.

• Balcony stateroom: This room has a small, personal, outdoor balcony. A balcony stateroom is recommended when taking a cruise to Alaska , for example, so you don’t miss any unexpected wildlife or glacier sightings.
• Interior stateroom: Located in less active spots on the ship, interior staterooms are comfortable for sleepers who prefer a quiet place to curl up after a day of fun and activities.
• Ocean view stateroom: An ocean view stateroom with a porthole or window lets you gaze out at ocean vistas and ports of calls.
• Specialty stateroom: This has a thematic setting that caters to families, couples or solo guests. Specialty staterooms include Cloud 9 Spa staterooms located next to the Cloud 9 Spa Family Harbor staterooms are next to the Family Harbor Lounge, a great escape when traveling with kids .
• Suite stateroom: Larger rooms that are ideal for family cruises . These suites give everyone in your group ample room to stretch out.

Cruise Ship Terminology

It pays to understand cruise ship terms and definitions so you don’t wander around too much during your vacation. Although, while on board, you’ll never be truly lost. You can find a deck plan of each vessel so you can get to know it before your trip in the comfort of your home. Until then, here’s a crash course in ship architecture.

• Bow: The bow is the front of the ship.
• Bridge: The bridge is the location from which the captain steers the ship.
• Galley: A galley is a ship’s kitchen. On a cruise ship, there are many galleys.
• Gangway: The gangway is the ramp or staircase that you’ll use to embark or disembark the ship.
• Helm: The helm is the area of the bridge on which the steering wheel is located and used by the crew only .
• Hull: The hull is the outside of the ship.
• Keel: The keel is the ship’s bottom center.
• Leeward: The side of the ship where you’ll feel most sheltered from wind is leeward.
• Lido: Lido is an often-used term because it’s the deck where you’ll find the outdoor pools .
• Midship: This is the middle of the ship.
• Port: The left side of the ship as it’s facing forward is called port. If you have a hard time remembering that, just keep in mind that “left” and “port” both have four letters.
• Starboard: The right side of the ship is starboard.
• Stern/aft: This is the rear part of a ship closest to the casual dining
• Upper deck: The upper deck is typically the area closest to the entertainment , fun and outdoor deck areas.

Dining Discussions

• Cruise casual: This is what you can wear most nights at dinner. For men, that includes slacks, khakis, jeans, dress shorts and collared sport shirts. Women wear casual dresses and skirts, pants, capri pants, dressy shorts and dressy jeans.
• Cruise elegant: This is the one or two nights on a cruise where it’s suggested you wear evening wear to dinner in the main dining room and some other restaurants. For men, that means dress slacks, dress shirts and sport coats (optional). For women, it’s cocktail dresses, fancier pant suits or skirts. In restaurants, such as the Steakhouse , you will be required to wear tasteful attire.
• Formal night: There are two formal, or elegant, nights on longer cruises. Elegant nights mean formal suits and ties or tuxedos for men and evening gowns for women. It’s not required to dress formally, yet formal attire is welcome.
• Main seating/late seating: This means there’s an assigned schedule and seating for passengers in the main dining rooms.
• Open seating: There’s no fixed schedule and no seating arrangements for dining with open seating.

Crew Member Chatter

Who wouldn’t want to be a crew member on a cruise to Hawaii ? Here are some of the cheerful faces you’ll meet on board:

• Cabin steward: Crew member responsible for the housekeeping of your stateroom.
• Captain: Crew member in charge of the cruise ship, responsible for the crew and passenger safety.
• Cruise director: Crew member who organizes for the ship’s activities and entertainment and is often the emcee for onboard events.
• Maître d’: Crew member responsible for the dining room.
• Porter: Crew member on land to help you with your luggage curbside before you embark the ship.
• Purser: Crew member in charge of onboard billing and monetary transactions.

Nautical Lingo

Knowing nautical terms in the cruise ship world is important when you’re underway (which means moving through the ocean). You may hear the captain discussing knots with another crew member.

• Knot: A unit of speed at which ships travel, which is one nautical mile per hour.
• Mooring: A place where a ship is tied, such as the dock when in port.
• Wake: The trail of water created at the back (stern) of the ship as it moves forward in the water.

It’s perfectly fine if you forget your cruise-speak and just say “meet me at the room,” instead of stateroom, or “where’s customer service?” instead of asking to see the purser. On a Carnival cruise, you can just be yourself and learn at your leisure. Once you have your first cruise under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a seasoned cruiser with insider tips of your own.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.

Related articles

What to expect.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-ships.aspx

British Slang Words 50 Plus Examples – Britlish™

British slang is something that most non-Brits have trouble understanding.  British slang is a cross of British and American English butchered with slang and idioms. Proverbs are often backward, upside down, and frequently incomprehensibl e.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our  disclosure and privacy policy  for more information.

Brit did not create some of the British Slang “Britlish™ ” on the Move ™ Brit defines all the British Slang examples for you. Some of these originate from Northern England slang and are understood by most from this region. Others are cockney rhyming slang, widely known by all in England. Several of these can’t be explained and are simply Nikkism’s ™.

British Slang

Closing Thoughts

So now you know some British slang, put it in to practice and let me know how it goes!

Looking For Places Try Out British Slang? Start Here:

• Castle Howard – Yorkshires Brideshead Revisited
• Chatsworth House – England
• Helmsley, England
• Harrogate’s Victorian Turkish Baths
• Lotherton Hall – Yorkshire
• Whitby Abbey
• Yorkshire Lavender Farms  

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Nikki Webster is a travel writer who covers how to travel while grinding a day job without breaking the bank. Nikki is always in search of off-the-beaten-track experiences and unique stays. She is particularly fond of Florida and writes extensively about the state. She flies around 60,000 miles annually and has visited 74 countries, 50 states, and six continents. You can read all about her travels at www.britonthemove.com or follow along on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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No Cap, Just Facts: Your Simple Guide to British Slang

British slang is a fun way to get a glimpse into British culture, offering a window into the wit, humour and unique expressions that make the Brits, well, brilliantly British.

Read on to learn about the origins of British slang and add some new phrases to your vocabulary as we journey through the whimsical and wacky world of slang!

What is British slang?

Slang isn’t just a bunch of jumbled words, it’s a unique part of the English language. Slang provides a creative way for people to express their emotions in casual conversations and is often used in films, TV shows and music. Plus, it’s always changing, so it keeps you on your toes!

The history of British slang

Thieves’ cant: the sneaky language.

Believe it or not, some of the earliest recorded slang was a secret code among criminals during the Elizabethan era (16th century). They called it “Thieves’ Cant,” and it allowed criminals to plot their crimes without other people understanding them.

While we’re not encouraging a life of crime, some of these terms are still used today, including:

• “Rascal” – A criminal.
• “Rat” – An informer.
• “Shoplifter” – Someone who steals from a shop.
• To “squeak” – To tell the truth.
• “Birds of a feather” – Criminals in the same gang.

The charm of Cockney Rhyming Slang

Cockney Rhyming Slang is a form of British slang where words are replaced by phrases that rhyme with those words.

Originating in 19th century East London, it’s not clear why Cockney Rhyming Slang was created, but there are a few theories.

Some people believe it was developed from Thieves’ Cant and was used by criminals and locals so that outsiders wouldn’t understand their conversations. Others say it was created by locals purely to confuse outsiders.

Another theory is that it was developed by the local market traders to sell their goods, using it to capture the attention and charm passers-by.

Cockney Rhyming Slang is still commonly used by locals today, whether they use the full saying or just half of it. Here are some examples:

• Original word: Money Slang term: Bees and honey Example: “My nan gave me some bees and honey.”
• Original word: Look Slang term: Butcher’s hook Example: “Have a butcher’s at this.”
• Original word: Gin Slang term: Vera Lynn Example: “I’ll have a Vera Lynn please.”

Modern-day slang

Just when you think you’ve got a handle on slang, new terms emerge.

One of the most interesting parts of British slang is that it’s always evolving, with new words developing from day-to-day life or social media platforms like TikTok.

Some examples of modern-day British slang terms include:

• “No cap” – Meaning ‘for real’ or ‘no lie’ – something that is genuine.
• “Drip” – In previous generations, this was a negative word used to describe someone as unattractive or boring. But now, it has evolved to mean a good thing and refers to someone’s look or style, especially if they’re fashionable.
• “Extra” – Describing something as over-the-top, dramatic, or too much.
• “Vibing” – Relaxing or enjoying the atmosphere around you.

Knowing when to use British slang terms

While it’s fun to throw in some British slang words while you’re chatting with friends or on social media, it’s best to avoid using slang in professional settings such as work. Trust us, your boss might not appreciate being told they’re “extra” in a meeting!

Spice up your chat: British slang words to add to your vocabulary

Explore a combination of modern and traditional British slang terms that you can use in casual conversations.

Describing something or someone as mad or crazy. Example: “That man is bonkers.”

A “fiver” or “tenner”

This slang for British money, describing a £5 or £10 note. Example: “Can I borrow a fiver?”

This is a shortened version of isn’t it usually used when someone is either asking a question or in agreement with a statement. Example: “This movie is cool, innit?”

“Dishy” or “a dish”

This is a term to describe someone as attractive. Example: “Rajesh is dishy.”

“Donkey’s years” or “yonks”

Another way of saying “a long time.” Example: “I haven’t seen you for donkey’s years.” Example: “I haven’t seen you for yonks.”

This means “I understand”. Example: “You don’t want to go out? Say less.”

A way of describing gossip or an interesting story. Example: If you want someone to tell you some gossip, you would say “Spill the tea.”

Meaning to agree or approve. Example: “You’re going to the party? Bet.”

This is British slang for good, cool or going well. Example: “Everything is Gucci.”

“Go off” is used as words of encouragement. Example: “You passed your test? Go off!”

Describing someone as extremely stylish or successful. Example: “You slay that outfit every time you wear it!”

Ready to slay your English conversations?

So, you’ve gotten the hang of some British slang – why stop there? Dive deeper into the English language with our wide range of courses, helping you to develop your skills.

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• Oct 13, 2020

100 Brilliantly British Slang Words and Phrases

Did you know that the UK has around 40 different dialects of English, each with their own accents and slang? This can cause a great deal of confusion if you’re exploring the country, or even if you’re just looking to stream the latest British TV series.

So, as a way of easing you in, here are some of my favorite slang words, phrases and expressions from around the British Isles.

What a great way to start the list. An arse is your rear end (not to be confused with an ass, which is a donkey). But it can also be a reference to an annoying person: “Stop being such an arse”.

Making jokes, often at the expense of others in your company. British people love to banter, and someone with good banter is likely to be popular. While from the outside it may look like we’re insulting each other, it's actually a sign of affection.

Used mostly in London to mean "a lot of". “There were bare man at the rave”.

Note the use of “man” in the singular to mean “men” or even “people”. I just threw in an extra slang term for free.

Crazy. “That’s a barmy idea”.

British people like to enjoy themselves. A bender can last a significant amount of time, and involves large amounts of alcohol or drugs. “He went on a week-long bender”. Think rockstars, mid-90s footballers and Prince Harry.

A man. Often used with “good” attached. “He’s a good bloke”.

07. Bollocking

You get a bollocking when you’ve done something you shouldn’t have. “I didn't do my homework and the teacher gave me a right bollocking”.

08. Bollocks

Testicles. You can also “talk bollocks” (speak nonsense, or lie) and if something is a “load of bollocks”, it’s not true. Not used in polite company.

09. Bonkers

Can mean either "crazy" or "angry" depending on the context. Someone can be “completely bonkers” or can “go bonkers” (the latter can also mean losing your temper).

Used in Scotland, this word means "pretty" or "beautiful", and is normally used in reference to a woman. Some think it has its origins in the French word bon , meaning "good".

Short for "brother", this London street slang is used to refer to a male friend. “You alright bruv?”

12. Bugger all

Nothing. “I did bugger all today”.

13. Buzzin’

Used mostly in Manchester to mean "very excited/happy". “I’m buzzin’ for this”.

A multi-purpose word which can be used as a toast, to thank someone or even say goodbye.

What’s more British than fish and chips? And the best place to get some is in your local chippy. Don’t forget the mushy peas.

16. Chuffed

To be happy or satisfied with something. Often preceded with the word "quite" or "pretty" because British people don’t like to show off. “I’m pretty chuffed with my results on that exam”.

17. Cor blimey

An exclamation of surprise. “Cor blimey, did you see that?” For more usage examples, check out this instructive video by British rapper Bigz.

Short for "of course" and normally followed by a word like "mate" or "bruv". “Did you take care of that thing? Course bruv”.

London street slang for sneakers (which British people call trainers ).

Used to mean "very", particularly in the north of England. “Did you see that bloke? He’s dead gorgeous”.

Untrustworthy. A person can be dodgy but so can an object: “I think I ate a dodgy curry”.

A British slang term for money .

London slang for the area you’re from. It’s important to represent your ends.

This slang word for a cigarette has no pejorative associations in the UK, but causes all sorts of problems for Brits visiting the US. They just want a cigarette, guys.

Used as a verb to show desire for something or someone. “I really fancy her” is a profession of a love interest, but you could also ask someone: “Do you fancy some lunch?”.

A shortened version of "family", this is used mostly in London. It can refer to your actual family but it’s often just how you’ll greet a friend. “You alright fam?”

While most British people think “food” is something you eat, it’s also street slang for drugs. Think twice before you ask someone if they know a good place to get some food...

A slang term for the national sport—football. That’s the game you play with your feet, hence the name. Don’t say soccer to a British person. You might get a bollocking.

Home. “Do you want to come round my gaff?”

Boss or manager. Often referred to as "The Gaffer".

32. Gagging

Used in the north of England to mean "thirsty".

Mostly heard in London, this means "ladies". See also mandem.

34. Geordie

Someone from Newcastle. Can also be used as an adjective to describe something from Newcastle.

A mouth. If someone is annoying you, you can tell them: "shut your gob". Best done at a distance as there may be repercussions.

36. Gordon Bennett!

An exclamation of surprise. The origin of this phrase is disputed, but the most likely candidate for inspiring the expression is an eccentric wealthy newspaper owner named James Gordon Bennett Jr .

£1,000. Interestingly, it’s only ever used in the singular. Whether 1 grand or 20 grand—never put an "s" on the end. Also used as an adjective in parts of northern England to mean "fantastic": “That’s grand”.

38. Grass up

To inform on someone to the authorities. You can refer to a person who grassed you up as a "grass".

39. Have a strop

To have a tantrum or go into a rage. Used with toddlers, teenagers and adults alike.

A shortened form of “isn’t it”, this can be added onto the end of sentences for emphasis. “Cor blimey, it’s bloody hot today, innit!”.

A short period of time. “I’ll be with you in a jiffy”.

Used as an adjective, to mean “funny” or just “fun”. “Let’s go into town tonight mate, it’ll be jokes”.

43. Knackered

Extremely tired. A possible result of a knees-up.

44. Knees-Up

A lively party. “We had a bit of a knees-up last night”.

A penis, but also an annoying person. “Don’t be such a knob”.

Mostly heard in London to mean a "lot of effort" or "annoying".

A toilet. The origins of this word are disputed, but all British people will know what you mean if you tell them “I’m just popping to the loo”.

Heard a lot in Wales but also in parts of northern England to mean "great" or "very nice".

Someone from Manchester.

Mostly heard in London, this means "men". See also galdem .

Another London term to mean the area you come from.

A term of address, usually to a man but not always. “How are you, mate?”

Crazy. An object or event can be mental (“Did you see that goal? Mental!) and so can a person (“The new gaffer’s mental”). If someone “goes mental”, it means that they got very angry.

54. Merc (or merk or murk)

You’ll find multiple spellings of this word, largely used in London, to mean "to kill". “He got merked last week”.

Mostly heard in Manchester to mean "great".

Very wealthy. “She’s absolutely minted, mate”.

Money. “He’s making loads of moolah”. Yes, British people have a lot of slang words for money.

A face, or an idiot, depending on context. “He’s got an ugly mug” would be the former, “do you take me for a mug?”, the latter.

Tasteless, cheap-looking. Normally used together with "a bit". “Those curtains are a bit naff, don’t you think?”

To be arrested. Possibly because you nicked something.

A little bit cold—as if the cold air was nipping at your skin. “It’s a bit nippy out, isn’t it!”.

A crazy person. “He’s a complete nutter”.

London street slang for someone untrustworthy.

Another London term, for someone or something that is attractive or desirable. A person can be peng, but so can food. Check out some peng chicken .

66. Pig’s ear

When you’ve made a pig’s ear of something, you’ve really messed it up. “He’s made a complete pig’s ear of that project”.

67. Pillock

An idiot, or annoying person.

A beer. Beer is drunk in pints in the UK, which is still valiantly struggling against the encroachment of the EU-mandated metric system. A British pint is roughly 20% larger than a US one, which means Brits are 20% more likely to be drunk.

69. Plonker

Someone who is a bit stupid or annoying. A little bit more affectionate than calling someone a pillock. “Don't be such a plonker”.

70. Porkies

Cockney rhyming slang: pork pies = lies. No one likes someone who tells porkies.

London street slang for money, from a shortening of "pounds".

Short for “public house”, these are the default places for British people to meet and drink pints, and they are everywhere. Unlike bars, they open in the morning, often serve food, and normally have at least one resident drunk.

A customer. “You’ve got to keep the punters happy”.

A pound. Like “grand”, quid only ever appears in the singular.

Rugby, another popular sport which the British invented only for everyone else to beat them at it.

76. Scouser

A person who comes from Liverpool. The Beatles were Scousers, for example.

A not so delicate way to refer to sexual intercourse. Can be a verb (“I'd love to shag him”) or a noun (“she was a great shag”).

A black eye. Possibly caused by telling someone to shut their gob.

London street slang for "scared".

To be without money.

81. Slag off

To criticize. “Stop slagging him off behind his back”.

A crude term for urinating. “I'm just going for a quick slash”.

A major effort. Can be combined with "hard" for emphasis. “This project was a really hard slog”.

Much more fun than a slog, this is a term for a french kiss. Can be a noun (“fancy a snog?”) or a verb (“did you snog him?”).

85. Sod off

A not so polite way to ask someone to go away. “Oh, sod off, won’t you?”.

86. Take a punt

To take a chance on something. Originally a reference to gambling but can be used in a broader context now.

87. Take the Mickey

Cockney rhyming slang: take the Mickey Bliss = take the piss. This is a slightly politer way to say our next expression:

88. Take the piss

To mock or laugh at someone or something. Alternatively, to not be serious about something (“this essay was a joke—are you taking the piss”?). Taking the piss out of your friends can be done as part of banter.

A £10 note.

90. The dog’s bollocks

Something or someone that is the best it/they could be. “Our new defender’s the dog's bollocks”. “That new chippy is the dog's bollocks”.

91. The local

A pub that may be your closest or just your regular favorite. For some reason, you don’t “go to” the local—you “go/are down” the local. “He’ll be down the local”.

Used in Wales to mean "fantastic". The Welsh clearly place a high value on tidiness.

A thing, person or even a situation, this is a great multi-purpose word. Coming originally from Caribbean English, it’s most prevalent in London. Can be combined with other slang for extra effect: “Check out that peng ting over there fam”.

A pejorative term for someone from the upper classes of British society.

Similar to a pillock, a tosser is someone who is annoying or a bit of an idiot. Calling someone a tosser to their face won’t normally go down well.

96. Wagwan (or wagwarn)

Imported from Jamaica to the streets of London, this reduced form of "what’s going on" is used as a greeting between friends.

This classic British insult literally means that someone masturbates, but is used much like pillock and tosser . It is not considered appropriate for use in polite company.

98. Wankered

Usually used together with "completely", this means to be drunk. “I got completely wankered last night”.

99. Wasteman

A London street insult which seemingly is derived from the idea of someone who is wasting their lives or is a waste of space.

A Scottish classic which is also popular in Northern Ireland. It means "little", but can be added to almost everything. “That’s a lovely wee doggie you’ve got there”.

Now you’re definitely ready to stream that new British TV show or blend in with the locals on your next trip to the UK. Did I miss any of your favorite British slang off the list? Let us know in the comments.

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I like languages, puns and rappers.

• Grammar & Style

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Cruise Lingo 101

Sometimes taking your first cruise can feel a bit like learning a foreign language. Is the ship's port side on the left or the right? Is your muster station aft or mid-ship? And what does the captain mean when they say the ship is traveling at 20 knots?

The lingo may be a bit different than you're used to on land, which is why we created a glossary of the shipboard terminology you're likely to encounter when booking, boarding, and enjoying a cruise. Here's every cruise term you can ever imagine. 

Booking & Boarding

Cruise fare: The price of a cruise (per person, based on double occupancy), excluding taxes and port fees.

Port fees: An additional expense covering the dockage, pilotage, customs, and other fees charged by the ports visited that are passed on to the passenger. Port fees are added to the base cruise fare at the time of booking and vary based on the itinerary and number of ports visited.

All-inclusive: A cruise fare (usually on luxury and premium cruise lines) that typically includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, crew gratuities, and specialty dining. Wifi, (some) shore excursions, and airport transfers are often part of all-inclusive fares.

Read more: The Best All-Inclusive Perks at Sea

Guarantee cabin : A cruise fare that allows the cruise line to pick your cabin, often at a price lower than an assigned cabin in the same category chosen at the time of booking.

Wave season : Every year from January to March, cruise lines offer promotions, deals, and discounts designed to generate bookings—during what's known as wave season.

Read more: 10 Tips for Getting the Best Cruise Deals During Wave Season

Itinerary : The specific route that the ship will take. This can range from two days to more than 120 days and is categorized by region: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, Mediterranean, Baltic, Greek Islands, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, and more.

Read more:  12 Amazing Small-Ship Cruise Itineraries for 2022 & 2023

Port of call: The city a ship will visit—and there are hundreds of possibilities around the world.

Sail date: The day the ship welcomes passengers and departs from the port of embarkation.

Embarkation : When you board a ship at the beginning of a cruise; the city where you board is called the port of embarkation.

Disembarkation: When you leave the ship at the end of a cruise; the city where you exit the ship and head home is called the port of disembarkation. 

Cruise terminal : The building within the port where cruise lines check-in passengers, much like an airline terminal.

Close-loop sailing : A cruise that begins and ends in the same port (AKA a roundtrip sailing). 

Open-jaw sailing : A cruise that begins in one port and ends in another.

Sea day: A day spent entirely at sea, without a port call.

Crossing: A voyage across the water, such as a transatlantic cruise from New York, New York to Southampton, England, or vice-versa.

Repositioning cruise : A longer voyage marking the end of the cruise season in one region and the beginning of one in another. These often involve an ocean crossing, from the Mediterranean across the Atlantic to the Caribbean in the fall or vice versa in the spring, for example. Repositioning cruises can be of great value—that is, if you don't mind a lot of time at sea.

World cruise : As the name implies, these lengthy sailings last 100 days or more and typically visit several dozen countries on five or six continents.

Loyalty program : Like airline frequent flier programs, cruise line loyalty programs reward repeat passengers with onboard perks and upgrades.

Upgrade: A change by the cruise line to a passenger's booking, often one category higher.

Gangway: The ramp-like stairs used to embark and disembark a ship; in larger ports, the cruise terminal will have gangways connecting to the ship, much like an airport gate to a plane.

Aft: A directional term for the rear of the ship. You'll often hear this used in reference to aft-facing staterooms or aft infinity pools.

Stern: The technical term for the rear of the ship.

Wake: The frothy trail a ship leaves behind it as it moves through the water.

Forward: A directional term for the front of the ship.

Bow: The literal front of the ship, where the sides of the hull come together. It's the spot where Jack and Rose strike their famous "king of the world" pose in Titanic .

Keel: The bottom center of the ship, located below the water.

Port: The left side of the ship. (A tip for remembering this: Both port and left have four letters.)

Starboard: The right side of the ship.

Midship: The center of the ship. This term is often used when referring to muster stations, stairways, or gangway locations.

Leeward: The side of the ship that is most sheltered from the wind.

Windward: The side of the ship from which the wind is blowing.

Deck : The levels or floors of a ship, which are often numbered and named—the Lido Deck, Promenade Deck, or Sun Deck, for example.

Bridge: The control center of the ship that holds all of the navigation and communication equipment; it's where the captain and officers work.

Knot: The speed at which a ship moves through the water, with a knot being one nautical mile (the equivalent of 1.15 land miles) per hour. 

Nautical mile: A unit for measuring distances at sea; equivalent to 2,025 yards.

Tender: A small boat, often one of the ship's lifeboats, that's used to ferry passengers ashore from an anchored position at a port that doesn't have a cruise ship dock (referred to as a tender port). 

Zodiac: An inflatable boat used by expedition cruise ships to take passengers ashore in Antarctica, the Arctic, and other remote destinations.

Read more: 7 Things to Know Before Booking an Antarctica Cruise

Accommodations

Inside Cabin/Stateroom: A windowless cabin, varying in size from snug to similar to standard oceanview and balcony staterooms, that offers value. The lowest prices for a cruise are usually for inside cabins unless the ship doesn't have them (most luxury ships don't). 

Oceanview Cabin/Stateroom: This category of cabins is located on the lower decks and offers a view outside, typically through a porthole-shaped window. 

Balcony Cabin/Stateroom: Also sometimes referred to as a veranda stateroom, most cabins on most cruise ships fall into this category. Passengers who book these cabins enjoy access to a small private outdoor sitting area via a sliding glass door.

Obstructed view: A balcony or oceanview cabin with something (usually a lifeboat) blocking or partially blocking the view.

Virtual balcony or porthol e: A special effect in inside cabins (mainly found on a handful of Royal Caribbean and Disney ships) that projects a live feed from outside onto one of the walls.

Suite: Anything larger than a standard balcony cabin. These range from junior suites (or mini-suites), which are slightly larger, to Owner's suites, which are usually the top accommodation. Most suite cabins include special onboard perks or privileges.

Family cabin: A stateroom that can accommodate more than three passengers.

Spa cabin: A stateroom designed for passengers who intend to frequent the spa. They are often located near the spa and come with in-cabin amenities.

Accessible Cabin/Stateroom: These cabins are typically roomier than standard cabins and have unique design features (think: wider doors, grab bars, shower benches, and lowered closet rods) intended for passengers with disabilities. 

Studio or Solo Cabin: A cabin, typically a smaller inside one, designed for a single guest. Not all cruise ships have them, but they are increasingly popular with solo cruisers looking to avoid paying a single supplement;  some new or renovated ships offer a small number of them.

Single supplement: The extra charge levied on a solo traveler who wants to occupy a cabin priced for double occupancy. The surcharge can vary from as little as 10 percent to as much as 100 percent of the cruise fare.

Onboard credit: Also known as an OBC, this is a dollar amount credited to a passenger's stateroom—as a bonus perk for booking during a promotion or for the cancellation of a shore excursion that was paid for before embarkation, for example—and must be used during the cruise. That means some or all of your charges (for beverages, specialty dining, onboard shopping, or spa treatments) can be erased from your bill at the end of the cruise. Yippee!

Crew appreciation: Also known as crew gratuities or tips, this is a daily amount added to a passenger's stateroom account on cruises that aren't priced on an all-inclusive basis. These funds are distributed among the crew employed throughout the ship. 

Key card: Like a hotel room key card, a ship's key card (also called a cruise card) provides access to a cabin—but it's also your ID card. It should be carried at all times and will be scanned at the gangway as you disembark and embark the ship in port. 

Crew quarters: The living and sleeping area for the hard-working men and women who work aboard the ship. This area is located on the lower decks and is not accessible to passengers.

Officers: The team of highly trained professionals responsible for getting a cruise ship from port to port and across oceans, as well as protecting the safety of passengers on board. They are distinguished by their crisp black or white uniforms with golden stripes, called epaulettes, on the shoulders. The more stripes, the higher the rank.

Captain: The individual in charge of the ship and who leads the officers in its operation. They can be distinguished by a uniform with the fanciest epaulettes.

Staff Captain: The second in command. Staff cabins must be familiar with all aspects of the ship and take command should the captain be indisposed.

Chief Engineer: The officer responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of the ship. 

Hotel Manager: The shipboard equivalent of a hotel manager who oversees the hospitality staff across housekeeping, the galley, restaurants, bars, and lounges.

Purser: The money guy (or gal) who's in charge of onboard billing. 

Cruise Director: The typically vivacious person who coordinates all onboard entertainment and activities (like Julie from the 1970s TV series, The Love Boat ), acts as an emcee in the theater or lounge during nighttime performances, and makes port-related announcements. 

Crew: The hundreds and even thousands of onboard workers who keep all aspects of a cruise ship running—from operating the engine room and laundry room to cooking and serving in the restaurants and cleaning cabins and public spaces.

Cabin Steward: The individual responsible for the cleaning of your cabin. Cabin stewards will generally greet you upon arrival. Throughout your voyage, cabin stewards are tasked with keeping your space super-tidy, as well as delivering the in-cabin printed daily schedule, turn-down chocolates, and, on some cruise lines, towel animals (a towel folded into one of many animal shapes).

Butler: On some small luxury ships, suite guests are also serviced by a butler, who can make onboard dining reservations, collect clothes that need to be pressed or laundered, and deliver late afternoon cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

SOLAS: The acronym of Safety of Life at Sea, the regulations that cruise ships must follow to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Muster drill: The required protocol for all cruise ships before they set sail. All passengers must participate by gathering at their assigned muster station (or, since COVID-19, this sometimes means watching a video in their staterooms) as crew members explain the general emergency signal, how to put on a life jacket, and other safety protocols.

Muster station: The place on the ship that's assigned to each passenger as the spot to gather for a muster drill or if the general emergency alarm sounds. Passengers will find their muster station indicated on the inside of their stateroom door and their key card as A, B, C, D (and so on), which corresponds to a public space, such as a theater, restaurant, or lounge.

General emergency signal: The loud alarm of seven short horn blasts followed by one long blast that sounds if passengers are required to gather at their muster station.

Life jacket: The bulky, bright orange flotation device used in emergencies. These are typically stowed on a shelf inside each cabin. 

Lifeboat: The smaller enclosed vessels attached to certain outside decks of a cruise ship and intended to be used in the case of an onboard emergency.

Crew safety drill: Passengers get one muster drill per cruise, but the ship's crew practices safety drills more often, typically when passengers are ashore, so you may hear announcements if you're on board when they occur.

Sea legs: The term used to connote having adjusted to the rolling movement of a ship in moderate to high seas without losing one's balance.

Main dining room: A large restaurant (or restaurants, since many cruise ships have multiple dining rooms) that serves á la carte menus for dinner and often breakfast and lunch.

Buffet restaurant: Almost all ships have a buffet-style restaurant, often called a café, that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In light of COVID-19, these are no longer self-serve. Instead, crew members now dole out what passengers ask for from behind Plexiglas partitions. 

Specialty dining: The term refers to smaller dining venues—steakhouses, Italian or French restaurants, and sushi bars, for example—that require a reservation and, on most major cruise lines, an added charge. On some luxury vessels, specialty dining is included in the cruise fare.

Complimentary/Included: Cruise lines use the term "complimentary" or "included" to indicate that dining in a restaurant will not incur an added charge.

Early seating: To accommodate passengers in the main dining rooms, cruise ships traditionally have two seatings. Those who choose the early seating generally dine at 6 p.m.

Late seating: The second seating in the main restaurant that typically starts at 8 p.m.

Open seating: Some cruise lines have ditched early and late seating times for open seating, meaning passengers can eat whenever they want during the 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. dining period (although there may be a wait for a table during popular dining times).

Galley: The ship's kitchen, a massive prep and cooking space that services the main dining room. Ships with multiple specialty dining restaurants often also have smaller individual galleys.

Beverage package : An add-on available to passengers aboard cruise ships with fares that aren't all-inclusive. A beverage package offers unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages for a set daily fee or a flat fee covering the entire cruise duration. Some cruise lines use free beverage packages as part of their deals and promotions.

Open bar: Free open bar is another way of saying that beverages (typically standard but not premium wines or spirits) will not incur an additional cost.

Onboard Activities

Sail away: When passengers gather on the top deck or in a panoramic lounge, sometimes for a sail-away party with cocktails, to enjoy the view as the ship sails away from the port.

Shore excursions: The tours and activities offered by the cruise line when a ship is in port (most times, these cost extra, although a few luxury lines include some excursions in the cruise fare). 

Private island : A tropical cay (a small island pronounced like "key") typically in the Bahamas and off the coast of Belize, owned by a cruise line. Many Caribbean itineraries call on them for a day of enjoying the beach, water sports, and other activities.

Dress code: These vary by cruise line, but most have a casual dress code by day and smart casual (a step up with collared shirts suggested and no tank tops) in dining rooms at night.

Formal night:  Traditionally, most lines have one formal night, when passengers don cocktail dresses, evening gowns, suits, and tuxedoes to dine on special menus and take portraits (at an extra charge). Some lines maintain this tradition, while others have done away with it altogether, opting for a dress code that's "cruise elegant."

Captain's cocktail: A cocktail party, generally held in the theater or largest lounge, with drinks and hors d'oeuvres served as the captain introduces the ship's officers.

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The Complete Guide:

British slang, phrases and insults (2021).

• British Accent Course
• December 21, 2021

It’s no secret that the English language is becoming increasingly widespread. 

You can  readily find English speakers in every corner of the world.

Nevertheless, one of the most tricky aspects of learning English is understanding British slang and British phrases. 

These unique terms and unwritten rules are key to helping you sound like a local.

And in some cases, knowing British slang will indirectly boost your authority and confidence by allowing you to flow better whilst talking.

What’s more, being able to understand these nuances will ensure you can converse freely, recognise cultural references and avoid any embarrassing mishaps! 

To help you learn British slang as fast as humanly possible, we’ve created this all-inclusive guide.

Common British Slang Words or Phrases

1. Mate  –  this is an interchangeable word that is a commonly used term for a friend or as a greeting to a male you are unacquainted with. “Hello mate, how are you?”

2. Gutted  – is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. “I’m absolutely gutted”.

3. Alright  – a  very common and interchangeable word. Commonly used as a greeting and does not usually require a response. “Alright mate”.

4. Dodgy  –  used to describe something or someone that is suspicious or questionable. “That person looked dodgy, so I stayed away”.   

5.  Banter  –  or its abbreviated version ‘bants’, refers to a witty, quick and fun joke, usually at the expense of a friend or loved one. “Don’t be offended John, we’re only having some banter”.

6.  Cheeky  – a  British term of endearment used when a friend or loved one is being a little rude or disrespectful but in a funny way.

7.  Quid  – a British  term used to describe a single pound sterling. “Lend me a quid mate”.

8. Fit  – w hile meaning something that is very healthy, fit can also mean someone who is very physically attractive. 

9. Fancy  – a n interchangeable term used for an object or person that you have taken a particular liking to. “Fancy a pint after work?”

10. Daft  – a  friendly term that is not offensive and used to describe something that is a little stupid or silly. “Don’t be daft!”

11. Wicked  – d espite sounding like something evil, wicked is actually used when referring to something that you thought was amazing. “That was wicked!” 

12. Rubbish  –  multi-use term that can either describe your household waste or something that was very bad or below expectations. 

13. Chips   – this is the most commonly used term to describe French fries, as in Fish and Chips.

14. Crisps  –  Coming in a variety of flavours, this is the British equivalent of a packet of potato chips. 

15. Loo  – a  common term used to describe going to the toilet or bathroom, “I’m just going to the loo”.

16. Bare  –  a British term commonly used to describe a lot of something. “There were bare people in the club last night”.

17. B anging  – a  common phrase that is used to describe something very good or of high quality.

18. Blatant   – refers to something that is very obvious. “It was blatant that they were cheating”.

19. First-class  – a  phrase used to describe something that was truly excellent and superior to anything else. 

20. Boozer  – a  common term used to describe a pub or drinking establishment that is not a bar or nightclub.

21. Having a natter  – a  phrase commonly used to describe having a friendly chat or gossip with close friends and family. 

22. Backhander  – a  British term used to refer to the money used to describe bribing someone. “He was given a backhander”. 

23. Cuppa  – a  friendly way of describing a “cup of”. Often used when referring to a cup of tea. “You’re looking sad, do you want a cuppa?”

24. Barney  – t his is a slang word used to describe an argument or disagreement with a friend or family member. 

25. Legless  – a  friendly British term used to describe someone who is very drunk. “you were legless last night!” 

26. Bagsy  – a  British slang term commonly used by British children and teens to stake a claim on something. “Bagsy the front seat of the car”.

27. Bog  – h as two meanings, either a muddy marsh or a phrase used to describe the toilet. “I’m going to the bog, be back in a minute”. 

28. Bonkers  – a  phrase used to describe a situation that is particularly surreal and unexpected. “That was bonkers!”  

29. Stag Night  – t his is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. Otherwise known as a bachelor’s or Bucks party.

30. Hen Do  – t his is the bride’s equivalent of a Stag Night and is otherwise known as a bachelorette party.

31. Skive off  – t he British slang term used to describe avoiding the job or duties that you are meant to be completing. “I don’t fancy going to work today, I might skive off”. 

32. Bits and bobs  –   a term used to describe an assortment or collection of different items that do not have any real connection to each other. 

33. Cream Crackered   – A cockney rhyming phrase that is typically used to describe being worn out and extremely tired mentally and physically. “I’m cream crackered!”

34. Minted  – is a British term typically used to describe someone who is wealthy and has a large amount of money, “They’re minted”. 

35. Kip  – t his is a term commonly used to refer to having a short nap or snooze during the day. “I’m off for a kip”. 

36. Footy  – a  colloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). “Are you going to the footy?”

37. Chuffed  – t his is used to describe feeling very pleased and proud of something either you did, or a close friend accomplished.

38. Peanuts  – a  British term used to describe the cost of an item that is very cheap to what it normally is. “I got this jacket for peanuts”. 

39. Fortnight  – a  duration of time that refers to a period of 14 days or two consecutive weeks.

40. Give us a bell   – a  common phrase used to describe wanting someone to telephone you. “Give us a bell when you finish work”. 

41. Haggle  – a  common British slang term used to describe bartering someone down or negotiating a particular price. “I haggled them down from the asking price”. 

42. Gobsmacked  – a B ritish slang phrase used to describe amazement, “I was gobsmacked, it was so good!” 

43. Shambles  – t his is a term used to refer to something that is in disarray or in a mess. “That was a complete shambles”.  

44. Bob’s your uncle  – t his is a term used to describe something that is a guaranteed success. “Do it that way, and Bob’s your uncle!”

45. Easy peasy  –  is a commonly used term to describe something that was very easy to complete. 

46. Have a butcher’s  – t his is a phrase that is used when you want someone to take a look at something closely. 

47. The bee’s knees  – a British slang  term used to describe something that is better than anything else or is the pinnacle of their profession. 

48. Numpty  – a  light-hearted British term referring to someone who does something stupid or says something that is incorrect. 

49. Naff  – a  term used to describe something that is not very good. “That was naff”.   

50. Butty  – t his is a phrase typically used in the south of the country and refers to a sandwich. “I’ll have a bacon butty please”. 

51. Hunky-dory  – t his is a term that refers to something that is going very well. “It’s all hunky-dory!” 

52. Hyper  – a British slang  term used to describe someone, often children, or a pet that is very over-excited. “They were so hyper”. 

53. Moreish  – t his is a phrase used to describe something that is very tasty and addictive. “Oh, that cake was very moreish”. 

54. Peckish  – u sed to describe a feeling of being hungry or craving something that is not quite a full meal. 

55. Rough  – t his is commonly used to describe a feeling of being sick or unwell. “I feel really rough, so I can’t come out”. 

56. Yucky  – r efers to a food or drink item that does not taste nice or has gone off. “That was yucky!”

57. Faff  – a   British slang   term used to describe someone who is being overly fussy or delaying something with unnecessary tasks. “Stop faffing around and get on with it”. 

58. Flutter  – a  gambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. 

59. Full of beans  – t his is a term used to describe someone who is incredibly eager and full of energy to achieve something. 

60. Her majesty’s pleasure  – d espite its pleasant sound, this phrase refers to someone who has spent time in prison. 

61. Jammy  – a  very common  British slang  term for someone who is always very lucky and fortunate, often more than should be normal. 

62. Knees up  – a  phrase often used in the South and London regions that describes a big party, packed with drinking and dancing. “We’ll have a right knees-up!” 

63. Nick  – a  British term used to steal something. “I’m going to nick that coat”. Being nicked refers to being caught by the police and arrested. 

64. Mug  – a  slightly negative term used for someone who repeatedly makes mistakes or is particularly gullible and will believe anything. 

65. Nosh  –  refers to a hearty plate of food that is very tasty. A meal that you find very tasty could be referred to as a “proper nosh up”. 

66. Not your cup of tea  –  classic term used to describe something that does not take your fancy or is not something that brings you enjoyment. 

67. Nowt  – a  phrase used in the north of the country that is typically used as a replacement for the term nothing. “There’s nowt wrong with that”. 

68. On your bike  – a  relatively polite way of telling someone to go away and stop bothering you. “On your bike, mate”. 

69. Pear-shaped  – t his is a  British slang  term used to describe a situation that has not quite gone to plan. “Things have gone a bit pear-shaped!”

70. Piece of cake  – a   British slang  phrase commonly used to describe something that was very easy to complete. Similar use to the term Easy Peasy. “That was a piece of cake!” 

71. Plastered  – a nother popular phrase used to describe someone who was very intoxicated with alcohol. “I was plastered last night!”

72. Put a sock in it  – t his is a fairly firm and rude way of telling someone to stop talking and to be quiet. “Oh put a sock in it will you!”

73. Sloshed  – y et another term that is commonly used to describe someone who is very drunk. “You were absolutely sloshed!” 

74. Smarmy  –  a slightly derogative term used to describe someone who appears particularly unpleasant and tries to showcase how they are better than you.

75. Snookered  –  a British term taken from the game of the same name, this term refers to a situation where there is no clear or obvious route of escape. “I’m snookered!”

76. Sod’s Law  – t his is a common phrase for when something that can go wrong, does go wrong. “It is sod’s law my car won’t start on the one day I really need it”. 

77. Having a strop  – a  British slang term  t ypically used to describe someone who is having a public display of anger or frustration. Commonly used for young children.

78. Taking the biscuit  – a n old English phrase used when someone is beginning to push their luck or push their boundaries. “You’re really taking the biscuit now”.

79. Waffle  – a  friendly term used to describe someone who is incessantly talking and mentioning things that are not relevant. “Stop talking waffle and get to the point”. 

80. Trolley  – a n interchangeable British term used to describe either a shopping cart or someone who is saying something silly, “You’re off your trolley if you think that’s correct!”

81. Bloke  – a  term used to describe a typical adult male in the UK. Used in the same way American’s use the term dude. 

82. Off-licence  –  is a shop that is typically opened late into the night and serves essential groceries and alcohol. 

83. Biscuit  – a  British slang term used to describe any cookie or cookie-like snack in the UK. 

84. Blinder  – a  word used to describe something that was truly exceptional. “You played a blinder last night!” or “That was a blinding performance”. 

85. Botch job  – a  British slang term  used to describe something that has been repaired or completed in a quick time without any care or attention. “That was a bit of a botch job”. 

86. Brolly  – a  word that every Brit knows! A brolly is a slang term for an umbrella, something that is needed very regularly in the UK. 

87. Builder’s tea  – t he British love their tea, and this is a term used to describe a tea that features a lot of milk and is typically quite weak. 

88. Brass monkeys  – a  slang phrase that is slowly disappearing but is used to describe very cold weather. “It’s brass monkey’s out there!”

89. Minging  – a  slightly derogative term used to describe something that is either disgusting or gross. “I’m not being funny, but that meal was minging!” 

90. Pork pies  – a nother Cockney rhyming slang phrase that refers to someone who is lying. Typically used in London, it has expanded to other regions of the country.  “I’ve got no time for your pork pies”. 

91. Fluke  – s omething that is very lucky or caused by complete chance. “Hitting the bullseye was such a fluke!” 

92. Arsed  – a  slightly less polite way of saying that you cannot be bothered to do something. “I can’t be arsed to go to work today”. 

93. Innit  – a  common abbreviation for Isn’t it. This is typically used in the south of the country and particularly amongst the younger generations. 

94. On the pull  – a British  term used to describe going out for the evening with the sole intention of attracting someone of the opposite sex. 

95. Spanner in the works  – a n event that disrupts your plans. “That was a right spanner in the works that I didn’t see coming.”

96. Splash out  – a  common British term used to describe spending more money than you should have to treat yourself or a loved one. “Splash out and treat yourself, you only live once!” 

97. Take the mickey  – a  light-hearted way of mocking someone you love for something that they did or said. A slightly less pleasant way of saying this is “taking the piss”. 

98. Wally  – a  less common term nowadays, but a Wally is someone who is a little silly or has said something stupid. 

99. Cheesed off  – a  feeling of being angry or depressed at the actions of someone you care for. “I’m a bit cheesed off they never called me on my birthday”. 

100. Gormless  – a  negative term used to describe someone who is incredibly foolish or lacking in intelligence.

How To Learn British Slang Fast?

You should strive to learn British slang if you want to surprise people with your pronunciation. There are numerous aspects of your speech that can accentuate your strengths but also weaknesses. And your accent is one of those aspects .

Although the common perception around the world is that every British person speaks eloquently as if they are a part of the royal family, the truth is actually very different.

Understanding British English can sometimes be very difficult, and despite the small size of the country, there are vastly different accents and slang terms. 

Even different parts of the same city can use diverse terms and accents . 

For example, a south Londoner will speak very different from someone born in the north of the city. 

Slang terms are almost an entirely separate language, and it can be very hard to pick these terms up as they are not listed in your usual English language textbooks. 

However, if you look close enough, there is a wide array of options available to help you learn these colloquialisms and British slang phrases . 

With the right attention, you’ll soon be speaking with a modern British accent!  So how do you learn British slang? 

Here are our top, easy-to-implement, practical tips:

Watch Local TV Shows

TV shows such as The Crown on Netflix are very captivating and can be extremely helpful to put in perspective the more old-school “Queen’s English” and modern British English (or Received Pronunciation).

Also, try watching some of the popular soap operas such as Eastenders, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks, as this will help you to understand how certain terms are used in a real-life situation. 

There are also some fantastic sitcoms that can help you to learn how certain phrases can be used to elicit laughs. 

The Inbetweeners is a very southern England show, while The Royle Family caters more to the north of the country. 

Other shows such as The Great British Bake Off are great in helping you to see how certain phrases are used in context. 

Check out our guide on the top 5 British TV Shows that will help you learn British slang and English in general from the comfort of your own home (Click here) .

Listening To The Radio

Another great way of picking up certain colloquialisms and slang phrases is to listen to both popular and local radio shows. 

As the presenters talk, you will soon start picking up on the phrases and terms they use to describe certain situations and conversations. 

Listening To British Artists

If the radio presenters do not help you, then listening to some of the biggest British musicians certainly can. 

From Stormzy and Adele to Dua Lipa and the Arctic Monkeys, they all use certain words and phrases that are distinctly British. 

Be Around British People

One of the most effective ways to learn British slang and to pick up those phrases and terms to make you sound like a modern British person is to spend time with English speakers. 

Throwing yourself in at the deep end and heading to the pub with some native speakers will soon seeing you understand exactly what phrases and terms to use in certain situations. 

Learning English can be incredibly tough, and understanding British slang is even tougher, but taking your time and using these 100 phrases will soon see you conversing with native speakers like you have been living here for years!

Do You Want to Speak With an RP Accent?

Yes, knowing and understanding British slang is great and will definitely make you sound more like a local.

However, in order to truly boost your status, authority and confidence you would need to speak with an all-around modern British accent, also known as, Received Pronunciation.

Received Pronunciation is by far the most sought after English accent in the world and that’s why many people wish to learn it. 

If you are a non-native English speaker and are looking for an authentic English accent that will open doors for you in your career check out our flagship British Accent Programs .

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60 British Slang Words and Phrases You Need to Know!

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Brit Slangs Decoded!

Slang is the speaking style of a person in a particular region, most commonly used by young people. These slangs are ever-evolving, and one cannot truly keep count of them since people create new lingos every now and then. British slang can help if you are planning to visit England soon. So, let's upgrade your British slang game!

What is British Slang?

British slang has an ancient and extensive history. It started in the 19th century and has changed over time. The British military used slang in the 1960s and 70s, which then evolved with the influences of Americans and new generations. We've rounded up the top 60 British slang words that you need to know to navigate the UK. So, let's crack on!

Common British Slang Words and Phrases

Are you buzzing? Or, let's say, are you excited to explore the realm of British slang words? Let's take a look at some common British Slang words and phrases. 

1. Any Road

This British slang is not a person asking you to pick a road. It means “anyway.”

‍ Example: “Any road are you from China or Japan?”

Let's start with the British short form of beverages commonly used for beer. This is not to be confused with "Bev", which is the British slang word for "a handsome chap."

Example: "You free to grab some bevvy with me, Susan?"

This is an English expression for something that surprises you, and it is something you might often hear on Doctor Who. 

Example: "Blimey! That watch is expensive."

Similar to its American counterparts, "guy" and "dude," this British term refers to a "man."

Example: "I can't be arsed about that bloke's problems!"

One of the most popular British slang words, "bloody", requires no definition. Although it was originally considered a cuss word, its present meaning is limited to adding an emphasis on whichever word follows it. You might exclaim, "That's a bloody good discount!" when you learn about student discounts in the UK . 

Example: "That was a bloody amazing overhead kick by Wazza!"

More than a muddy marsh, the British use the term "bog" for toilets, and "bog paper", as you might've already guessed, means toilet paper. "Big standard", however, is a phrase for "average or normal."

Example: "Excuse me, I have to use the bog real quick."

Depending on the context, "bonkers," the British slang, can either mean crazy or angry and is often paired with "completely" and "go".

Example: "That hairstyle of yours is completely bonkers, Karan!"

What Americans call the "trunk" of their car, the British call the "boot." People in the UK often hold "car boot sales", selling off unwanted possessions from the boots of their cars. 

Example: "I got this grill bloody cheap at Bob's boot sale."

Brolly is also one of the English slang words. It is something you might also come across in Australian slang and means "umbrella."

Example: "I'm getting totally drenched, should've brought my brolly."

A short way of saying "brother", your British mate might say "You alright, bruv?" to check on you when you're buzzin'.

Example: "Bruv, Chelsea are getting relegated, innit?"

11. Buzzin’

This is a British English slang word for tipsy and excited, with the latter meaning mainly used in Manchester. 

Example: "I am absolutely buzzin' to go to the game this Sunday!"

12. Can't be Arsed

When you can't be bothered doing something, you might use ‘Can’t be arsed,’ one of the British slang phrases. You can shorten it to "CBA" when texting your mates. 

Example: "I can't be arsed with doing the assignments Bobby."

If someone calls you cheeky, you might have done something impolite or disrespectful that came across as charming or amusing. 

Example: "He's a cheeky bugger, innit? Tricked me into believing him!"

14. Cock-up

If you've turned in the wrong paper, you can use the British slang phrase for a mistake to describe what you're doing. Not booking student accommodation early when moving to study in the UK would be a cock-up even after being aware of the benefits of early booking !

Example: "I definitely cocked up by accidentally revealing the baby's gender to the parents."

15. Cracking

Often used to describe a person or thing, "cracking" is also one of the British slang words for something particularly good or excellent. 

Example: "Harry Kane was properly cracking against Arsenal today!"

Daft, one of the British English slang words, is one you'll want to avoid being called as it means dumb in a silly way. 

Example: "This is the third time I'm explaining this to you today. You're quite daft."

No, this doesn't mean anything morbid. This British slang word is another example of the people's fondness for emphasis as it means "very."

Example: "I am dead serious, John. McGregor will knock him out in two rounds!"

"Dodgy" basically means something sketchy or suspicious. You might use this British English slang for food that seems outdated. 

Example: "That ravioli looks dodgy, mate, I wouldn't touch it."

19. Faffing Around

Faffing around is one of the British phrases and slang that is used when you take longer than needed to do something or spend your time in a not-so-productive way. When you've been faffing around all day, and someone asks you what you did, you can respond by saying, "Bugger all", which means nothing at all. 

‍ Example: "Quit faffing around and complete your work!"

If someone calls you fit, they aren't exactly talking about your physique or exercise habits. It means they find you attractive. So go ahead and make a move, but don't be gutted if you get pied off.

Example: "Daniel Ricciardo looked quite fit on the telly today!"

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21. Fiver & Tenner

This one's quite simple, really. Fivers refer to five-pound notes, while a tenner is, you guessed it, a ten-pound note. If you've run out of both, you can call yourself skint, which means broke or lacking money. 

Example: "I ran out of all my tenners. Can you please lend me a couple of fivers for the taxi fare?"

22. Gobsmacked

It doesn't get more British than this. Gobsmacked is a British slang word for utterly shocked or surprised.

‍ Example: "Despite him dancing for the first time, I was gobsmacked at Josh's moves."

It might sound like something Egyptian mummies undergo, but it's nothing of the sort. However, depending on how gutted you are, you might even want to switch places with a mummy. "Gutted" is one of the British slang words for extremely upset, devastated or disappointed about something.

Example: "I am absolutely gutted at the Queen's passing, mate."

24. Hunky-dory

You might use this in response to a question about how your day is going. This is the UK slang phrase for alright or OK.

Example: "Don't worry about our travel; we're all hunky-dory."

25. Kerfuffle

This one's a mouthful, but it's one you need to know to avoid feeling confused. Kerfuffle is a UK slang word for a disagreement or fight. It can also mean fuss. 

Example: "I stumbled upon a minor kerfuffle as soon as I entered the bar."

A long study session might make you want to take a quick kip, meaning a short nap. 

Example: "There aren't any customers today. You better take a quick kip."

Used in a similar sense to bloke, the lad is a UK slang word for younger men and boys. 

Example: "Go on then, lad! Score some goals!"

28. Lost the Plot

If you are sad to lose the plot, you might want to take a step back. Losing the plot, one of the British English slang phrases is used for someone who is behaving irrationally or is enraged. 

Example: "You're wearing white to her wedding? Have you lost the plot?"

29. Minging

Pronounced ming-ing, this is a lovely word to describe something that isn't quite so lovely. Minging is a UK slang word for something gross or disgusting. 

Example: "Blimey! The detailing on that car looks minging."

If you've been called a mug, it means you're gullible or daft and can easily be taken advantage of. If the term is used to describe a face, it means ugly.  

Example: "I am usually polite, but he looks like an absolute mug!"

Nosh is a UK slang word for food.

Example: "You wanna grab some nosh while we're out?"

You might already know that the UK uses the word pants for underwear while Americans use it to mean trousers. The British might also say, "That's pants!" for anything that's utterly bad or rubbish.

Example: "That penalty call is pants; that's a soft foul!"

33. Pied off

If you've been pied off, it means you've been rejected or shot down. Yikes!

Example: "Yeah Janet pied me off when I asked her out last night."

A rather interesting insult, muppet is used for someone who is rather ignorant or clueless. 

Example: "You muppet, Indians don't speak Indian, that's not a language!"

Although this British slang is often used to replace "very," proper also retains its original meaning of not inappropriate.

Example: "That pie is proper gobsmacking!"

"Quid" is a word used in the same way as the American's "bucks." If someone "quids in", it means they're investing in someone or something to gain some benefit. 

Example: "That shirt actually just cost 10 quid, quite cheap in this economy."

37. Slag off

Slagging someone off is a British English slang word for mocking someone. 

Example: "My mates have been slagging me off for weeks now for overhitting that pass."

Although this British slang word means "devil", it is often used to refer to a person, typically a man. 

‍ Example: "You sod! How dare you drive over my plants?"

39. Throwing a Wobbly

You might want to avoid throwing a wobbly as it is one of the British slang phrases for throwing a tantrum. 

Example: "Leave him alone; he's just throwing a wobbly."

40. To Crack on

Cracking on means getting started with something. This is different from cracking, which is used to describe someone or something excellent. You particularly want to avoid being called crackers, as it's a British slang word for crazy. 

Example: "I have to go to bed early since I'll be cracking on that road trip tomorrow morning."

41. To Leg it

If you're legging it, you're likely physically running away from trouble.

Example: "That's the police. Leg it quick!"

42. To Nick

Nicking something is a British English slang word for stealing. However, when you get nicked for nicking, it means you're getting arrested. Further, "The Nick" is a British slang word for the prison.

Example: "That orange purse? It got nicked in the concert yesterday."

43. Trollied/Plastered

Trollied and plastered are both British slang words for drunk.

Example: "Man, you are so funny when you're plastered."

When talking about the national sport, you might come across this word, which is a UK slang word for football. Don't call it "soccer" in front of a British person unless you're prepared to get a bollocking. 

Example: "Got me some new boots, let's crack on with the footie then?"

45. Bollocking

When you do something that you shouldn't, you might get a bollocking, one of the British slang words. 

Example: "Mum gave me a proper bollocking for taking the car out without her permission."

British Slang Sayings

Not just British slang words, but there are a number of British slang phrases used on a daily basis while communicating with their friends and family.

1. "Get in!"

If your mate tells you about something terrific happening, you can reply with "Get-in!"

Example: "You got into Oxford? Get in then, mate!"

2. "Fancy a Cuppa?"

"A cuppa" is a British English slang word for the stereotypical parched Brit's favourite drink, a cup of tea. 

Example : "You're drenched! Fancy a cuppa to warm you up?"

3. "Alright?"

Although the Americans might ask this with genuine concern, the Brits use this as a casual greeting and often pair it with a slight nod. 

Example: "You alright, Frank?"

"I'm good, you alright, Joe?"

4. "I'm Knackered!"

This UK slang phrase means tired or exhausted and originates from the 19th and 20th-century term for the person who slaughtered worn-out horses for their hoofs, hides, and meat. 

Example: "Man, I'm knackered after all that dancing."

5. "I'm Chuffed to Bits."

This is one of the British slang phrases for being happy or satisfied, especially about an achievement. It usually follows words like "quiet" or "pretty" since British people don't like to show off. 

Example: "Congrats on the promotion, Ramirez, I'm chuffed to bits at this news!"

6. "I'm Pissed."

This one might take you by surprise, as pissed doesn't have quite the same meaning as it does in the US. This is one of many British slang phrases that mean drunk. Make sure you don't confuse this with "taking the piss", which means mocking or being sarcastic. 

Example: "Can you book me an Uber home? I'm pissed."

7. "What a Load of Poppycock!"

This is a British idiom derived from the Dutch words "pap" and "kak", which translates to "soft dung." You might say this instead of saying, "That's nonsense."

Example: "They are changing the offside rule? What a load of poppycock!"

8. "That's Smashing!"

Here's one of the British slang phrases that is a staple in Austin Powers' vocabulary. Smashing is British for something fantastic. 

‍ Example: "They are giving out free cookies at the corner shops? That's smashing, mate."

9. "Don't Get Your Knickers in a Twist."

This unusual UK slang saying simply means don't get worked up or upset. 

Example: "He was always going to move to a better club, Kieran, Don't get your knickers in a twist."

10. "Bagsy!"

If you want to call shotgun while going on a road trip in the UK or dibs on food or the front seat of the car, shouting out "Bagsy!" will do the trick. 

Example: "Bagsy! I love the extra legroom sitting up front!"

11. "Bob's your Uncle."

This is one of the British slang phrases that will leave you confused if you don't know the intended meaning. In the same vein as "presto!" or "et voila!" This UK slang phrase is typically used for tasks that seem more difficult than they actually are. 

Example: "1, 2, and 3, and Bob's your uncle. Rashford has his hat-trick!"

12. "Budge up."

Similar to scoot over or move over, "budge up" is a British slang phrase you can use informally and are likely to use when travelling around the country by UK public transport . 

Example: "Budge up, mate, this is a public bus."

13. "This Road is Chocka!"

"Chocka" is short for "chockablock," which is most often used to describe something that's completely packed, like a jammed road.

Example: "I'll be home in ten, love, hit a chocka!" 

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14. "she's a few sandwiches short of a picnic.".

First coined in 1987, this phrase is a funny new way of saying a person isn't quite clever. The person can also be described as being a bit dim. 

Example: "Perhaps it's best not to task them with this. They're a few sandwiches short of a picnic."

15. "Innit."

Ending on one of the most commonly heard British English slang words, innit is simply the shortened version of the contraction "isn't it?" and is primarily used by the youth of Britain to confirm or agree with someone. 

Example: "Their music is proper cracking, innit?"

How to Learn British slang?

To get really good at using British phrases and slang, you can try different ways. Here's what you can do:

1. Trying British Slang with Friends

Experimenting with UK slang words and phrases in casual conversations can be fun and effective. Using it with friends provides a practical way to learn and understand its nuances.

2. Observing Communities like Football

Engaging with communities popular in the UK, like football, can expose you to slang. Listening to British commentators during matches can be a great way to learn slang in context.

3. Utilising Native Friends

If you're a student abroad, connect with native friends. Ask them about the slang they use and incorporate it into your conversations to gain practical experience.

4. Listening to British Music

Enjoying British music exposes you to various slang and colloquial expressions. Pay attention to lyrics and how words are used in songs to learn informally.

5. Speaking with a Native Speaker

Conversing with a native British speaker is a direct way to learn British slang words. They can correct you and provide insights into the proper usage of words and British phrases.

6. Watching British TV shows

Watching British television shows and series can familiarise you with slang. Pay attention to character dialogues and their manner of speaking to pick up slang naturally.

So there you have it! British slang words and phrases can be a tricky language to learn, but when you get the hang of it, it's as easy as pie - or should I say, as easy as taking the biscuit! So why not give it a go and see if you can brush up on your British slang like a proper English gentleman or lady? With its influence on the world of pop culture and its ability to turn any conversation into a Monty Python skit, British slang words are here to stay. Cheerio!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common british slang words used by people, what is 20 in british slang, what is cool in british slang, how do you refer to your friend in british slang, what is british slang for girls.

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88 very British phrases that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK

Every language has a few phrases that don't always translate well — and the British English has some absolute corkers.

The team at the Business Insider UK office have compiled a list of the best British slang and idioms that define the weird and wonderful British dialect we grew up with.

From our linguistic research, we've confirmed that above all, British people are  sarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk.

Each term is partnered with a description and example. Some entries also feature surprising facts about the phrase's origins, with a few quintessentially British idioms not actually coming from British roots at all.

Whether you think this list is the "bee's knees" or if it's enough to make you want to "pop your clogs," scroll on to discover 88 very British phrases — in alphabetical order — that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK.

"A few sandwiches short of a picnic"

Someone that lacks common sense might be described as "a few sandwiches short of a picnic." 

The phrase was first documented in the BBC's "Lenny Henry Christmas Special" in 1987.

"She's great fun, but she's a few sandwiches short of a picnic."

"Anorak"

Although it's more often used as a synonym for raincoat, an anorak is something slightly different in playground slang.

Someone that's a little bit geeky, with strong interests or expertise in a niche area, might be referred to as an "anorak." This probably originates from the "uncool" appearance of anorak coats and the people wearing them.

"Thomas is such an anorak when it comes to train trivia."

"Bagsy"

Calling "bagsy" is the equivalent of calling "shotgun" or "dibs" when something, like the front seat of the car, is offered up to a group.

Schoolkids might call "bagsy" on items from their friends' pack lunches, like an apple or a cereal bar, that the friend isn't going to eat.

"Does anyone want thi—"

"Bee's knees"

This phrase became mainstream in the USA in the 1920s despite its British origins, but its popularity in the States has dwindled since the turn of the century.

The "bee's knees" referred to small or insignificant details when it was first documented in the 18th century. Since then, the phrase has evolved and refers to something at the "height of cool."

"The Beatles are the bee's knees."

"Bender"

Someone on a spree of excessive drinking and mischief is "on a bender."

Benders often last over 24 hours, and so you might say that someone is on "a weekend bender," or a "three-day bender."

"I bumped into him towards the end of his four-day bender. He was a wreck."

"Blinder"

To "pull a blinder" involves achieving something difficult faultlessly and skilfully.

The phrase is most commonly used when the individual has been lucky and the person saying it is in disbelief that the first person has managed to pull it off.

"And did you see that equalising goal in the last minute of injury time? He pulled a blinder there."

"Bloody" or "Bleeding"

This intensifier can be added to practically any sentence in order to demonstrate incredulity or anger.

Some people consider "bloody" offensive (the origins of the word are widely disputed, so we can't be sure why) and it was considered a profanity until the mid-20th century.

The origins of the word are widely disputed . Some believe it's derived from the Dutch word "blute," meaning "bare." Others believe the word is a contraction of the 17th century phrase "by our lady," and is blasphemous. This second theory has been disproved, however, by the slang's documentation predating the popularity of the phrase "by our lady."

Nowadays, "bloody" is used widely — it's even used in children's films such as "Harry Potter" — and is arguably one of the most quintessentially British words on the list.

"That was bloody good."

"Bob's your uncle"

The very British equivalent to "Hey presto!" or "Et voila!"

This phrase is used to describe a process which seems more difficult than it actually is.

"Press down the clutch, put it into gear, then slowly ease off the clutch again. Bob's your uncle — you're driving!"

"Bog-standard"

Something that is "bog-standard" is completely ordinary with no frills, embellishments, or add-ons.

Its origins are somewhat unclear, but a "bog" is another word for a toilet in British slang, adding to the connotations that something "bog-standard" is unglamorous and unspecial.

"How was the hostel?" "Oh, nothing exciting to report. Just your bog-standard dorm, really."

"Boot"

The "boot" is the compartment at the back of the car known as the "trunk" in American English. 

"Shove the shopping in the boot."

"Botch job"

A repair job that's been completed in a hurry and will probably fall apart reasonably soon is considered a "botch job."

"Sam did a botch job on these shelves — they're wonky!"

"Brolly"

Abbreviation of "umbrella."

"Grab your brolly, it's drizzling outside."

"Budge up"

An informal way of asking someone to make room where they are sitting for you to sit down, too, would be asking them to "budge up."

It's similar to "scoot over" or "move over."

"Hey, there's loads of room on that bench. Budge up and make some room for us, too!"

"Builder's tea"

The name of a strongly-brewed cup of English breakfast tea with milk — the way that tea is most commonly drunk in the UK.

It's common courtesy to offer a labourer or builder working on your house a builder's tea while they're working — especially if they're working out in the cold. This is probably how the term came about.

"A bacon sandwich and a builder's tea. Now that's a proper breakfast."

"Butchers"

"Butcher's hook" is Cockney rhyming slang for "look." Therefore, if you're "having a butchers," you're having a look at something.

"Would you take a butchers at this broken bike for me?"

"Cack-handed"

A task performed in an awkward or uncomfortable fashion, usually clumsily, would be described as "cack-handed."

"Cack" is old-fashioned slang for faeces.

"He handles a screwdriver very cack-handedly."

"Cheeky"

An act which could be deemed as impolite or shameless, but for some reason comes across as funny or endearing to others, would be described as "cheeky."

"Joe's children are absolute rascals — they tied my shoelaces together last week!"

"Those cheeky monkeys."

"Chinese whispers"

"Chinese whispers" are rumours that have been circulated and watered down until they only vaguely resemble the truth.

The phrase originates from the game "Chinese Whispers" commonly played at children's parties. A phrase is whispered around a circle and the last person to hear the phrase has to guess what the initial phrase was.

"Simon heard from John that you were fired."

"What? No. I just had Friday off work."

"Oh. It must have been Chinese Whispers."

"Chinwag"

A "good old chinwag" is a good chat, catch up, or gossip with someone.

The action of chatting away — with the jaw bobbing up and down — resembles a chin "wagging" like a dog's tail.

"Those two are having a proper chinwag — I haven't been able to get a word in edgeways for half an hour!"

"Chockablock"

Something full to the brim, or rammed, could be described as "chockalock."

This is sometimes shortened to "chocka."

"We should've taken the other route. This road is chocka!"

"Chuffed"

Overjoyed; full of pride.

"I heard you got the promotion. Congratulations! You must be chuffed."

"Clanger"

An obvious and indiscreet mistake or blunder.

Unrelatedly, "Clangers" was also a children's TV show from the 1970s about pink mouse-like creatures that lived on the moon.

"You dropped a clanger there."

"Codswallop"

Something untrue — often made up for dramatic effect.

Although no one is completely sure of the word's origins , it could derive from the words "cod" and "wallop," which historically meant "imitation" and "beer" respectively — implying that "codswallop" is the kind of rubbish you make up when drunk.

"Oh, what a load of codswallop! "

"Cost a bomb"

"Your watch is gorgeous."

"I should hope so, it cost a bomb."

"Cream crackered"

Cockney rhyming slang for "knackered," if you're "cream crackered" then you're incredibly tired.

A "knacker" was the person that slaughtered worn-out horses in the 19th and 20th centuries for their meat, hoofs, and hide. So, if you're "ready for the knacker's yard," you're exhausted beyond relief.

"This week's done me in already, and it's only Tuesday. I'm cream crackered."

"Curtain twitcher"

A nosey neighbour, often caught peering out on their street's activities from a curtained window, might be referred to as a "curtain twitcher."

"He's obsessed with anything that happens on this street. He's a bloody curtain twitcher, but he still won't sign for our packages."

"Dench"

An adjective used to advocate something that is impressive or agreeable, dench is the equivalent of "solid" or "cool" when used in response to someone else.

Its reported creator, British rapper Lethal Bizzle, elusively  told the Guardian that the word "means anything you want." 

"I'm going to make us spaghetti carbonara for dinner."

"Dim"

Someone that lacks common knowledge might be described as "dim," whilst someone that's intelligent might be described as "bright."

"She's a bit dim."

"Doddle"

An easy task is a "doddle."

The word could be a variation of "toddle" — like a young child's first steps.

"This will be a doddle."

"Dog's dinner"

A "dog's dinner" is a mess or fiasco — sometimes also referred to as a "dog's breakfast."

"You've made a dog's dinner of that."

"Faff"

To "faff" is to waste time doing very little.

"Faff" comes from the 17th century word "faffle," which means to flap about in the wind.

"We were just faffing about."

"Fag"

A cigarette.

A "fag end" is also the ratty bits towards the ends of a reel of fabric, which are the worst and the cheapest bits of the reel. Historically, "fags" were the cheaper cigarettes made of lower grade tobacco, however, the slang has spread to encompass all cigarettes.

"Could I pinch a fag, please?"

"Fit"

Used to describe someone physically attractive, usually referring to their physique.

"He's fit."

"Flog"

To "flog" means to sell something — usually quickly and cheaply.

"Flogging" also refers to whipping a racehorse in order to make it move faster, so there is some speculation into whether you flog goods in order to make them shift faster, too. However, there is no proof for this theory.

"I'm trying to flog my old sofa. Do you know anyone that might be interested?"

"Full Monty"

After "The Full Monty" film was released in 1997, there was some international confusion over the phrase in which it was taken as a euphemism for stripping. However, "the full Monty" actually refers to pursuing something to the absolute limits.

"The full Monty" historically refers to an old tailor called Sir Montague Burton . Going "the fully Monty" meant purchasing a full three-piece suit, a shirt, and all of the trimmings.

"Our Christmas dinner had everything from sprouts to Yorkshire puddings. If you're going to have a roast, have the full Monty!"

"Full of beans"

Someone that's energetic, lively, or enthusiastic might be described as "full of beans."

This phrase could be a reference to coffee beans, although these claims have been disputed.

"Goodness, you're full of beans this morning!"

"Gaff"

"Gaff" is an informal word for "home."

Although the origins of this phrase are largely unknown , a gaff in the 18th-century was a music hall or theatre , and so it's believed to derive from this.

"What are you up to this weekend? We've got a party at our gaff, if you fancy it?"

"Gallivanting"

To "gallivant" means to roam, or to set off on an expedition, with the sole intention of having some light-hearted fun.

Historically, "gallant" described someone brave or valiant, so "gallivanting" is a carefree and confident act.

"Off they go again, gallivanting."

"Geezer"

A "geezer" is a man that could be described as "suave" or "dapper," and is often suited and booted. Men from east London are also commonly referred to as "geezers." 

Geezer is thought to stem from the 15th century "guiser," which meant well-dressed.

"That guy's got such swagger — he's a proper geezer."

"Give me a tinkle on the blower"

"Give me a call" or "ring me." The phrase is sometimes shortened to "give me a tinkle."

"Tinkle" refers to a phone's ring, while "blower" is slang or telephone and refers to the device that predated phones on Naval ships. Sailors would blow down a pipe to their recipient, where a whistle at the end of the pipe would sound to spark attention.

"Give me a tinkle on the blower."

"Gobsmacked"

Astounded; bewildered; shocked.

"Gob" is slang for mouth, so if you're gobsmacked, you're shocked to the point of clasping your jaw in disbelief.

"I was gobsmacked!"

"Gutted"

Not to be confused with literally being disembowelled, someone that says they're "gutted" is devastated or extremely upset.

"I was absolutely gutted."

"Half past"

While Americans are more likely to say "seven thirty" or "five fifty," Brits will more often than not refer to times in "minutes past" the hour. Eg, "half past seven," and "ten to six."

It's unclear why Brits appear to favour analogue time-telling while Americans go for the digital format.

"It's twenty past eleven."

"Hank Marvin"

"Hank Marvin" is Cockney rhyming slang for "starving." 

"I'm Hank Marvin" means "I'm hungry" or "I'm ravenous."

Hank Marvin is a British musician from the 1960s and 1970s, and is a pretty obscure reference nowadays. Marvin played guitar in Cliff Richard's backing band in the 1960s.

"When are we going to eat? I'm Hank Marvin."

"Innit"

"Innit" is an abbreviation of "isn't it" most commonly used amongst teenagers and young people.

This phrase is used to confirm or agree with something that another person has just said.

"It's really cold today."

"Leg it"

Make a run for it; run away; scarper.

"That's when all of the lights came on, and so we legged it."

"Long"

Something that takes a lot of effort and probably isn't going to be worth all of the effort, either, could be described as "long." This could be due to the lengths that the person will have to go to in order to complete the task.

Something that is "long" is probably also annoying or aggravating.

"Cleaning the kitchen is long."

"Lurgy"

If someone's "caught the lurgy," they're suffering from cold or flu-like symptoms.

"The dreaded lurgy" originates from 1950s British TV show "The Goon Show," in which one character has to deal with a national epidemic of an unidentified illness.

"Lurgy" is probably based on a mispronunciation of the word "allergy."

"She's come down with the dreaded lurgy."

Making random words past-tense to mean drunk

Brits are known for favouring a drink or two, so much so that almost any noun can be used as a substitute for "drunk."

In his stand-up show , British comedian Michael MacIntyre said: "You can actually use any word in the English language and substitute it to mean drunk. It works."

Examples include "trollied," "smashed," and "gazeboed."

"I was absolutely car-parked last night."

"Miffed"

Slightly irritated or annoyed.

"Miffed" possibly derives from the German "muffen," meaning "to sulk."

"I was a bit miffed, I can't lie."

"Minging"

Something unpleasant, unappetising, or highly unattractive might be described as "minging."

The term comes from the Scottish slang word "ming," meaning faeces.

"What's in that sandwich? Is that ham and tuna? That's minging."

"Mint"

"Mint" might be used when referring to something of the highest calibre.

Derived from "mint condition," which refers to something pre-owned that retains its pristine condition, although something that's just "mint" doesn't have to be pre-owned.

"Those shoes are mint!"

"Mortal"

Derived from the Newcastle sociolect, "mortal" was made widely known across the country in 2011 by reality TV show "Geordie Shore."

"Mortal" describes someone highly intoxicated or drunk in a sloppy manner.

"Did you see Scott last night? He was mortal."

"Nick"

"The Nick" can refer to prison, while "to nick" also means to steal.

The origins of the phrase are largely debated online , however, it's believed that "to nick" as in to steal influenced the slang term for prison, as being imprisoned is similar to being "stolen" away.

"Did you just nick that?"

"Don't get caught, or you'll end up in the Nick!"

"On it like a car bonnet"

This colloquialism might be said by someone that has the situation under control.

"How's the report going, Steve?"

"Don't you worry, Alan, I'm on it like a car bonnet."

"On the pull"

Someone that's "on the pull" has gone out, usually on a night out, with the intention of attracting a sexual partner.

"Pull" can also be used as a verb. If you've "pulled," you've kissed someone.

"You look nice. Are you going on the pull?"

"Over-egg the pudding"

"Over-egging the pudding" means embellishing or over-doing something to the extent that it's detrimental to the finished product.

Although this sounds like an analogy about the chemistry of baking, or putting too many eggs in a cake batter, "egg" actually comes from the Anglo Saxon "eggian," meaning to "excite." This is still used in English in the phrase "egging someone on" to do something.

In "over-egging the pudding" analogy, someone is over-exciting, or over-mixing, the batter too much before it bakes — resulting in a tough or dense cake.

"We get it — you've injured yourself. Don't over-egg the pudding."

"Pants"

Rubbish; trash; garbage.

"That is pants."

A "par" breaches social and common courtesy, eg, a disrespectful comment could be seen as a "par."

"Par" can also be used as a verb, eg, "You just got parred."

This slang term could be a British abbreviation of the French "faux pas," meaning an embarrassing or tactless remark in a social situation.

"I don't mean this as a par, but did you remember to wash this morning?"

"Pear-shaped"

A situation which has quickly evolved into an accident waiting to happen might be described as "gone pear-shaped."

The phrase is reportedly old slang from the Royal Air Force  and was used to described awry expeditions and flights.

"Well, this has all gone a bit pear-shaped."

"Pea-souper"

A "pea-souper" is a thick fog, often with a yellow or black tinge, caused by air pollution.

The idiom was first used to describe the thick, choking smogs that settled over London, caused by lots of people burning fossil fuels in a close vicinity,  as early as 1200 . The smogs were compared to pea soup due to their colour and density.

"Be careful when you're driving — it's a pea-souper out there."

"Pinch punch first of the month"

"Pinch punch, first of the month. No returns of any kind" is a school playground rhyme often exchanged between friends on the first day of a new calendar month, accompanied by a pinch and a punch to the recipient.

If the joker forgets to say "no returns of any kind," the recipient can say "a slap and a kick for being so quick," accompanied by a slap and a kick.

According to the Metro , the playground ritual originates from the medieval times, when a "pinch" of salt was believing to make witches weak, and the "punch" resembled banishing the witches entirely. As a result, "pinch punch, first of the month" was a way of warding off witches and bad luck for the near future.

Nowadays, it's mostly a way for kids to pull pranks on their friends.

"Pinch punch, first of the month!"

"Ha! A slap and a kick for being so quick!"

"Pissed"

"Pissed" usually means "angry" in the US. However, in the UK, someone that's "pissed" is most probably drunk.

"Oh leave him alone, he's pissed!"

"Pop your clogs"

To "pop your clogs" means to die.

This cheery phrase is widely believed to originate from Northern factory workers around the time of the industrial revolution. When they were working on the factory floor, employees had to wear hard clogs to protect their feet.

"Pop" has evolved from "cock," and when someone "cocked" their clogs, the toes of their clogs pointed up in the air as they lay down dead.

"Did you hear what happened to John's old man? He popped his clogs, didn't he..."

"Poppycock"

Something that is nonsense, rubbish, or simply untrue might be described as "poppycock."

This quintessentially British idiom derives from the Dutch "pap" and "kak," which translate as "soft" and "dung."

"What a load of poppycock!"

"Quids in"

Someone who's "quids in" has invested in an opportunity which is probably going to benefit them massively.

"Quid" is British slang for "pounds," eg, "five quid" means £5.

"If it all works out as planned, he'll be quids in."

"Round"

You might buy a "round" of drinks for your friends at the pub, in the understanding that they will each buy you a drink as part of their "rounds" later on.

"Whose round is it? Is it Steve's?"

"No way, these pints were my round."

"Shambles"

A disorganised mess or chaotic environment might be described as a "shambles."

"What's happened here? This is a shambles!"

"Shirty"

Someone short-tempered or irritated might be described as "shirty."

The meaning of this slang has been debated at length . The word "shirt" is derived from the Norse for "short," hence short-tempered. However, other people believe that "shirty" has connotations of being dishevelled.

"Don't get shirty with me, mister."

"Skew-whiff"

Something that is "skew-whiff" is askew.

"Is it just me or is that painting a bit skew-whiff?"

"Skive"

"Skiving" is the act of avoiding work or school, often by pretending to be ill.

"Skive" is derived from the French "esquiver," meaning "to slink away."

"He skived off school so we could all go to Thorpe Park on a weekday."

"Slumped"

Lacking in energy; usually after a long period of exertion.

"Do we have to go to the dinner party tonight? I'm slumped."

"Smarmy"

Someone that comes across as scheming or untrustworthy might be described as "smarmy."

Although the adjective's origins remain largely unknown , early documented uses seem to use the word as synonymous with "smear," further suggesting that someone who is "smarmy" is also "slick" or "slippery."

"Don't trust him — he's a smarmy geezer."

"Sod's law"

A British axiom that boils down to the idea that: "If anything  can go wrong, then it definitely  will go wrong."

"Sod's law" is often used to explain bad luck or freakish acts of misfortune. This is more commonly known in the US as "Murphy's law."

"Of course my toast had to land on the floor butter-side-down. It's Sod's law."

"Spanner in the works"

An event that disrupts the natural, pre-planned order of events could be described as a "spanner in the works."

The phrase describes the mayhem caused when something is recklessly thrown into the intricate gears and workings of a machine.

"By getting pregnant, Mary threw a spanner in the works."

"Spend a penny"

To "spend a penny" is a polite euphemism for going to the toilet.

The phrase goes back to Victorian public toilets, which required users to insert a single penny in order to operate the lock.

Although it sounds crude, the phrase is actually considered a polite way of announcing that you are going to visit the bathroom. Historically, only women would announce they were going to "spend a penny," as only women's public toilets required a penny to lock. Men's urinals were free of charge.

"I'm going to spend a penny."

"Splash out"

To "splash out" means spending significant amounts of money on a particular item or event.

If you're "splashing out," it's implied that you're spending money on a treat to mark a special occasion or celebration.

"Wow — you've really splashed out on this party!"

"Swot"

Similar to "nerd" or "geek" but less derogatory — someone that takes academic study very seriously might be described as a "swot."

"Swot" can also be used as a verb.

"I haven't seen Tom since he started revising for his exams. He's turned into such a swot!"

"Yeah, he's been swotting like mad for his Spanish exam."

"Take the biscuit"

If someone has done something highly irritating or surprising in an exasperating fashion, you might say that they've "taken the biscuit."

"Taking the biscuit" is the equivalent of taking the nonexistent medal for foolishness or incredulity.

"I could just about deal with the dog barking at 5:30a.m., but the lawnmower at 3 a.m. really takes the biscuit."

"Take the Mickey"

To "take the Mickey" means to take liberties at the expense of others — and can be used in both a lighthearted and an irritated fashion.

"Take the Mickey" is an abbreviation of "taking the Mickey Bliss," which is Cockney rhyming slang for "take the p***."

"Hey! Don't take the Mickey."

"Tickety-boo"

Something that is "tickety-boo" is satisfactory and in good order.

This classic British idiom may seem stereotypically twee, however, some sources believe that "tickety-boo" in fact derives from the Hindu phrase " ṭhīk hai, bābū ," meaning "it's alright, sir."

"Everything's tickety-boo."

"Waffle"

When someone makes a great speech while skirting around a subject or saying little of any value, you might say that they're talking "waffle," or that they're "waffling."

In the 17th century, to "waff" went to yelp, and quickly evolved to mean to talk foolishly or indecisively.

"I wish he'd stop waffling on."

"What a load of waffle!"

"Wally"

Someone silly or incompetent might be described as a wally.

Although its origins are largely debated , the term's meaning has evolved over the last 50 years alone.

In the 1960s, someone that was unfashionable might be nicknamed a "wally," according to dictionary.com . 

"Don't put down a leaking mug on top of the newspaper, you wally!"

"Wangle"

If you've "wangled" something, you've accomplished or attained something through cunning means.

"I wangled some first-class seats by being nice to the cabin crew!"

"Whinge"

To "whinge" means to moan, groan, and complain in an irritating or whiney fashion.

"Quit whinging."

"Wind your neck in"

If you want to tell someone to not concern themselves with issues that don't directly affect them, you might tell them to "wind their neck in."

This classic phrase is another way of telling someone that their opinion is not appreciated in the given scenario.

 "Wind your neck in and stop being so nosy!"

"Wind-up merchant"

Someone that makes comments just to spark controversy or argument might be labelled a "wind-up merchant."

The "wind-up merchant" will often claim to be making their comments as a light-hearted jest when the recipients start becoming irritated.

If you're "winding someone up," you're making them tense or irritated in the same way you wind up a Jack-in-the-box before it pops.

"Stop being such a wind-up merchant and be serious for one second!"

"Zonked"

Exhausted; tired.

"I was going to go out tonight but when I finished work I was absolutely zonked."

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British slang words & phrases

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This dictionary of British slang includes popular words and phrases that you might hear in the UK and will help you with your own spoken English.

A Slang Words Phrases

– is used to describe something that is awesome. A word that is popular in the north and amongst youngsters.

– when you hear this, the person isn’t asking you to pick a road! They are most likely substituting it for “anyway” and the context could be “any road are you from China or Japan.”

A load of tosh

– is used to describe something that is not very good. For example, your lecturer might describe your essay “as a load of tosh” …. harsh!

A Kent face

– commonly used in Scotland when a person has seen a person they know, such as “I saw a few Kent faces in the library”. This idiom has nothing to do with the surname or the place. It is taken from an old English word that means “to know”.

Adam and Eve

– Cockney rhyming slang for believe. “Can you Adam and Eve it!”

B Slang Words Phrases

– the phrase does not relate to bees or knees but is an idiom for excellent. It became popular in the 1920s along with “cat’s whiskers.”

Bite your arm off

– don’t be alarmed if someone says this. No one is about to literally bite off any part of your anatomy. It is used to describe willingness. For example someone might say to you ”they will bite your arm off if you offer to write their essay.”

Brassed off

– considering the Brits are good at hiding their emotions we still have plenty of words to describe when we are not happy with something. One of which is “brassed off”.

Bits ‘n Bobs

– is used these days when you want to say you have an odd selection of things for example you could say “I have a few bits’n bobs in the fridge. I’ll see what I can make”. However, it was originally used to describe loose change in your pocket.

Bob’s your uncle

– the origins of this saying and how it is used today differ. The saying originally meant you could get anything or do anything if you had the right connections because it came about after the 20th British Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury, famously appointed a nephew into an important political post for which he didn’t have the relevant experience. Today it is more commonly used to say everything is OK.

Butcher’s hook

–originates from the East End of London and is a rhyme slang for take a look.

C Slang Words Phrases

– No it is not just a breakfast cereal but also one of the many words used to say goodbye in the UK. “Ta ta” is popular in the North of England and you will also hear “laters” and “see ya”.

Cheesed off

– is a quirky euphemism for being unhappy. Obviously, you would be unhappy if your cheese went off! It can be used in casual and formal situations for example someone could say “I’m cheesed off that you ate the last piece of cake.”

– means to have a long chat and its origins come from a Welsh word meaning empty. It is believed that the word originates from a pub in North Wales where the landlady would ensure people drunk more than they intended by going around with a jug of ale and toping people’s glasses up by saying “chin wag” – which is Welsh for your cup is empty.

D Slang Words Phrases

Don’t teach your grandmother to suck eggs.

– you may hear someone more senior in years saying this to a younger person when they feel the youngster is being disrespectful by thinking they can teach the older person something.

– is used to describe someone who is attractive.

Don’t cry over spilt milk

– someone may say this if you get something wrong or actually spill or break something. The essence of the saying is that you shouldn’t worry about it.

–is used amongst friends and is an affectionate way of making fun of a female friend when they have done or said something silly. Be aware the meaning changes dramatically when you say this to a stranger!

Donkey’s years

– Apparently donkey’s live for a long time so when someone say’s “I haven’t seen you for donkey’s” they are saying they haven’t seen you in a long time.

– is used to describe a place that isn’t very nice. Someone may say to you “It’s a dive but the drinks are cheap”

E Slang Words Phrases

– A fun and childish way of expressing something is easy to do or understand. We dare you to use it next time your lecturer is explaining something.

Effing and blinding

– this expression is used to describe someone who is using unpleasant language. For example, you might hear “She was so angry that she was effing and blinding all the way home!”

– an Irish-based pronunciation of the word “Idiot.”

– a mid-morning snack before lunch that normally includes a cup of tea and a biscuit.

– is an expression used to describe someone who is being told off. For example, you may hear someone say “They got an earful for being so loud last night.”

F Slang Words Phrases

Full of beans.

– full of beans means someone is very energetic and vivacious.

For crying out loud

– This is a replacement for a rude word. For example, you discover your bike has a flat tyre & you yell “Oh, for crying out loud!”

Faff around

– If you’re faffing around you look busy, but you’re achieving very little. For example: “I told him to stop faffing around and wash the dishes.”

Flogging a dead horse

– to try and find a solution to a problem that is unsolvable. For example: “You’re flogging a dead horse by asking Martha to move to the UK – she hates rain”

G Slang Words Phrases

Going to a do.

– student life wouldn’t be student life without a fair dose of parties and if someone invites you to a “do” say yes because they are inviting you to a party!

– if you are gobsmacked you are amazed by something or someone. In a good or bad way!

– is slang for food and comes from the old English word meaning ‘dig’. The association with digging for food morphed into the slang we use today.

– is used to describe someone who talks a lot and has a lot of opinions, and not necessarily in a good way.

H Slang Words Phrases

– is the slang word used to describe someone who is very drunk. You can say someone is tipsy if they appear to be a bit drunk.

Horses for courses

– this is a popular saying that means that we all have different tastes and what is right for one person isn’t necessarily right for another person.

– is just a cool way of saying that something is just fine!

I Slang Words Phrases

I’ve come over all peculiar.

– is a peculiar saying used to describe someone who becomes unwell very quickly.

I’m not being funny but I haven’t got all day

– this is a popular saying in Wales and simply means hurry up!

– next time you are in a restaurant and your friends are debating what to order just say “order whatever. I’m easy”. That’s a signal that you’re happy with whatever they order.

I’m off to Bedfordshire

– is rhyming English slang for when someone is tired and wants to go to bed. Get it?

It’s brass monkeys outside

– is used when it is bitterly cold. The origins of this saying refer to the brass handles on doors which get very cold. This bit makes sense but the monkeys bit of this saying is baffling, even to the Brits.

J Slang Words Phrases

– if you are a lucky person you might be described as flukey or jammy.

– is slang for pyjamas and as a student you’ll hear “I think it’s time to put on my jim jams and get into bed – I’m exhausted!” – a lot!

– is slang for a pint of beer. For example: “Let’s meet after the lecture for a few jars.”

– this is a quintessentially British saying meaning you’ll do something immediately. You might say it to show you are keen, for example: “If you’re cooking dinner I’ll be there in a jiffy.”

K Slang Words Phrases

– if someone says they went to “a right knees-up over the weekend” they are talking about a wild party. Your response should be why wasn’t I invited?

– is a fuss or commotion. For example: “What’s all the kerfuffle about? I’m only two hours late!”

Keep your hair on

– can you lose your hair if you get too angry or excited? That’s what this idiom suggests. For example: “Keep your hair on – I only accidentally deleted your dissertation.”

– means sleep

L Slang Words Phrases

– you will hear bar staff, in pubs, shout this and ring a bell at 11pm or at 10.30pm on Sunday to let customers know they have 20 minutes in which to finish their drinks.

– if someone has the lurgy stay away. It means they are ill and possibly contagious.

– can be used in a multitude of ways and means you thought the experience was not good. For example: “That film was such a let down”

– used to describe a loud/brash person. For example: “Tom gets a bit lairy after a few drinks.”

Leave it out

– means you want someone to stop doing or saying something that you find upsetting or annoying.

M Slang Words Phrases

– if someone is described as minted it means they are rich, so become their best friend immediately!

– a mitten is a kind of glove. But Brits have shortened the word and made it slang for hands. For example: “I’d love to get my mitts on a new camera!”

Mind your P’s and Q’s

– means to be on your best behaviour. For example: “My parents are very conservative – mind your p’s and q’s.”

– is another way of saying you are confused or annoyed. For example: “She is really miffed that she’s not been invited to the party.”

N Slang Words Phrases

Not my cup of tea.

– is a saying used when something is not to your liking. For example: “My boyfriend loves football but it’s not my cup of tea”.

– if someone does or says something inappropriate, wrong or a bit silly you might hear a Brit saying “You numpty you’ve got your T-shirt on back to front.”

– is used to describe something that is of poor or inferior taste. Example: “I don’t like my flat, the furniture is a bit naff.”

– is slang for food. For example: “Shall we get some nosh before our lecture?”

O Slang Words Phrases

Old chestnut.

– if you tell the same joke or story too many times your bored friends may say “oh no not that old chestnut again “ in a sarcastic voice.

On the lash

– means to drink excessive amounts of alcohol and you may hear Brits saying, “Are you out on the lash tonight?”

Oh my giddy aunt

– is another expression for “Oh my God!” and used to show shock or surprise.

– an expression used to describe something unique. For example: “I bought this one-off dress from a student studying fashion.”

Odds and sods

– another way of saying ‘bits and pieces.’ For example: “My glasses were in the drawer with all the odds and sods.”

P Slang Words Phrases

Piece of cake.

– to describe something as a “piece of cake” means you think it’s easy to do. For example, you might say “this essay is a piece of cake.”

– an old-fashioned way of saying goodbye.

– is used to describe wine and the reference is that it isn’t the best quality wine.

– if you are accused of telling a “porkie” it’s serious. It means someone thinks you are lying. The saying comes from an old Cockney rhyme that used pork pies and substituted “pies,” for “lies” and it later got shortened to “porkies”.

Put a sock in it

– If you have had enough of someone talking you can tell them to put a sock in it. It is totally fine to use amongst friends but even you think your lecturer is going on a bit we advise you keep the thought to yourself!

Q Slang Words Phrases

– is slang for one-pound sterling.

– affectionate term Brits use to refer to Queen Elizabeth II (the current Queen)

– is Cockney rhyming slang for soda water.

– is slang for a doctor that is suspected of not have the correct qualifications

– is Cockney rhyming slang for the backside (bum).

Queen of the south

– is Cockney rhyming slang for mouth.

R Slang Words Phrases

– is English slang for something being nice, good or cool and originates from Essex. In fact, to learn how to speak like someone froEssex you should watch The Only Way Is Essex.

– is slang for something that is horrible, in bad taste or actually smells unpleasant.

– can be used in a couple of ways. The first is if you defeat someone in an argument, fight or other competition. The second context is when someone pays over the odds for something.

– is cockney rhyming slang for a cup of tea.

S Slang Words Phrases

See a man about a dog.

– is what you say when you jokingly don’t want to reveal where you are going, such as going to the toilet.

Stop faffing around

– If you hear this and it’s aimed at you. Finish off whatever you are doing fast! The implication is you are taking too long or you are not doing it efficiently.

– If you don’t want to go to that 9 am lecture (understandable) or rather spend the afternoon in the student’s union then suggest skiving off to a couple of like-minded people, but be prepared to be labelled a skiver by your more studious class fellows.

– is one way to describe someone who is ill-tempered.

Stitched up

– is when someone has taken advantage of you. For example, when a classmate nominates you to lead a presentation you can certainly claim to “have been stitched up.”

– This can mean a number of things some ruder than others. But the most common use is when someone is expressing how tired they are.

T Slang Words Phrases

Taking the piss.

– If you hear this being used it means one person is shocked at what another person is doing or saying.

Throw a spanner in the works

– you are likely to hear this saying when something goes wrong or someone makes a mistake.

Tickety-boo

– means OK and may have originated from a Hindi word meaning everything is fine. It’s one of those nice-sounding words you will hear when someone wants to express everything is going exceptionally well.

– The off-licence is the equivalent to an American convenience store, licenced to sell alcohol.

– means to move slowly and clumsily.

U Slang Words Phrases

– means a relatively large, but unspecified amount, of something and is generally used when someone is annoyed. For example, you may hear a Brit saying “For the umpteenth time, I said no I will not take the dog for a walk!”

– slang for being enthusiastic/willing to participate. For example: “I like bowling, I’m up for it tonight.”

– British slang for bed

Up the spout

– when you have wasted something such as money. For example, “Everything I earned over the summer has gone up the spout trying to keep this flat warm.”

Under the cosh

– is used when you feel under pressures or restricted. For example: “She is under the cosh to deliver that project on time.”

V Slang Words Phrases

From the valley’s.

– an expression used to describe people from Wales, owing to the number of valleys (which is the low area between hills) in Wales.

– is slang for vodka and tonic.

– is slang for relaxing. As a student, you’ll want to veg-out every time an essay has been submitted. To veg-out properly you have to order pizza and find a really naff movie to watch in your jim-jams.

– is slang for feelings, atmosphere, mood. For example, you may go to a club and say “I like the vibe in here the music is reem.”

– is English slang for cheap wine.

W Slang Words Phrases

Watering hole – this is one of the many British slang words for a pub

– is another word for shaky or unstable. You can use it to refer to a person or an object. For example, you might say a chair has a wonky leg.

– means to get or do something that is a bit devious. For example: “I wangled an extension on my essay by telling the lecturer my cat died.”

– is a Scottish word for small. In England it’s a euphemism for urine. Confused? Don’t be. If a Scottish person says they want a wee drink they want a whiskey. If an English person says they want a wee direct them to the nearest toilet!

– If you wind someone up it means you are teasing or taunting them.

– an expression used when someone is in trouble

X Slang Words Phrases

– you might use the expression “have you got x-ray eyes” to question what a friend is telling you. For example, “How do you know Yinbo ate the rest of the pizza – do you have x ray eyes?”

– is used to describe something that is very good. You may hear “that double chocolate chip ice cream is xtra!”

Y Slang Words Phrases

– if you go to a pub with a group of friends it is most likely that one person will buy the whole group a drink. This will continue until everyone in the group has bought a drink. If it is your turn someone may say “It is your round”.

You’re a keeper

– used affectionately to describe someone who is nice or someone who has a good attribute. For example, you might hear “You can cook – you’re such a keeper.”

– mostly Brits use this when they haven’t heard or understood what was said. On some ocasions it might be used when someone disagrees with you. You’ll know which one it is by their tone and body language.

– used to describe someone who talks too much about things that aren’t of interest to you. Example: “My lecturer wouldn’t stop yakking on and on today.”

– when you haven’t seen someone for a long time. Example: “God, I haven’t been to a lecture for yonks!”

Yank my chain

– if you tease someone about something they are sensitive about they could say to you “stop yanking my chain” to tell you to stop it.

Z Slang Words Phrases

– is used when someone is sleeping or by someone who is expressing they are super tired.

Zebra crossing

– is often used to describe the black and white horizontal markings on the road where pedestrians can cross.

Catch a few Zzzzzzzzzz

– is used when you want to go to sleep.

We hope you find this dictionary of British slang useful for your time here!

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British Insults, Slang & Phrases: The Ultimate Guide

Here’s our guide to the choicest British slang, insults and phrases:

The British language has many nuances, something Shakespeare made use of back in the day. Today, there may not be as many poets and playwrights playing around with language as there was then (or rather: there are more, they just play with language less as a general rule as plays are no longer written in verse).

But whether you’re going to the Old Blighty yourself, or trying to complete a course in British literature, it’s good to know some common terms, phrases and, possibly, curses. Just knowing English isn’t enough—you have to understand the slang.

The Brits are as fond of slang (some dating back centuries) as the rest of the world. And they have some rather funny examples of how you can use one word to say many different things, chief among them being the word piss. Yes, piss.

You see, there’s a difference between it pissing down, you getting pissed, you being pissed off, you taking a piss and you taking the piss. All five have distinctively different meanings.

Intrigued? You should be. Read on to unravel the mystery (and learn how to tell someone to F off in proper British English—using the Queen’s accent, naturally).

N.B. these are not always dictionary translation of words, but rather a Brit’s take on them.

Table of Contents

British Insults

Nitwit : silly, or foolish, person—she’s such a nitwit

He’s a knob: he’s a dick/idiot

Dick: an idiot

Off their rocker: mad—they were off their rocker, they were

Mad as a hatter: mad—stemming from back in the day when hatters used a manufacturing process for felt that, indeed, made them mad (mercury poisoning)

Gormless: clueless; slow witted

Bugger off: go away; run along

Prick: dick; asshole—he’s a prick that one

Tosser: someone who doesn’t have it all together

Daft: silly;stupid—oh, don’t be daft

Daft cow: silly; stupid (referring to a woman)

Cockwomble: idiot; foolish; obnoxious

An angry Tweeter, after Brexit was announced and Trump made a statement that the Scots had made a wise decision to leave the EU—they voted to remain in the EU—called Donald Trump a “polyester cockwomble.”

Never say the Scots aren’t inventive where language is concerned! It is almost Shakespearean prose! Shakespeare was actually prone to using “colourful” language and invented his own words and phrases. 

British Exclamations & Swear Words

Blasted: usually in relation to something going terribly wrong; you wouldn’t use it if something good happened

Blast it: dammit;

Dog’s bollocks : a person or thing that’s the best of it’s kind (it’s the dog’s bollocks!). The literal meaning? The dog’s balls!

Bloody hell: oh my God—usually in relation to something extremely good, or bad happening

Hell’s bloody bells (or: hell’s bells): oh my God—usually in relation to something bad happening, but not always

Bloody brilliant: wonderful

Blooming brilliant: a nicer way of saying bloody brilliant

Bloody marvellous: wonderful

Blooming marvellous: a nicer way of saying bloody marvellous

Blooming: bloody

Damn: oh no

Nutter: crazy person

Bonkers: crazy—he was bonkers

Blast it: sod it

Sod it: blast it; damn it

Hell and damnation: damn

Fanny Adams: obsolete; nothing (derogatory)

Sweet Fanny Adams: same as Fanny Adams

Goddamn: damn

Plonker: idiot

That’s rubbish: that’s stupid; that’s silly; that’s nonsense

Lost the plot: someone who’s lost the plot is someone who’s gone crazy—after the breakup I believe he lost the plot

Blimey: my goodness; oh my God

Bollocks: literally it means balls, but the real meaning is damn, bloody hell, or similar, when expressed angrily

While Brits are known to be polite, with their stiff upper lips, they are also experts at swearing. “Hell’s bloody bells, that’s bloody marvellous!” would be a display of great happiness, not rudeness. Swearing is used as much when one is happy as when one is annoyed.

If you want examples of how Brits speak, swear words included, watch the Bridget Jones and Kingsmen movies. Those movies also display many of the different accents—in both franchises Colin Firth speaks using RP (Queen’s English) and Taron Egerton has an East London dialect.  

British Duplicity

Taking the piss: mocking someone/something, or making fun of someone/something

Taking a piss: going for a wee

Pissing down: raining a lot (a proper downpour)

Being pissed off: being angry

Being pissed: being drunk

Not too bad: good

British Necessities

Put the kettle on literally means to put the kettle on, but is used to offer comfort, relieve a crisis, warm up, aid an investigation, provide courage, show you care…the list goes on. Whatever the matter, or just to have a natter, the Brits put the kettle on.

British Slang & Common Expressions

Mate: friend, brother (the equivalent of South Africa’s “bru” and similar to the Americans’ “dude”)

Geezer: man

Cock up: screw up; something went wrong

Nob: someone of a high social status

Give someone a bell: call someone (and for some reason, when asking someone to call you, you use plural in some accents—give us a bell when the dress is ready, will you?)

Gutted: devastated

Chuffed: proud; happy—I was chuffed I passed the exams

Fancy: like—I’ve taken a fancy to those shoes

Knock off: a copy of the real deal (such as a coy of a Chanel bag)

Wonky: unstable; used in everyday language to explain something isn’t quite right

Sorted: arranged; well taken care of; someone who have their interests taken care of, such as being wealthy—after receiving that inheritance, he’s sorted

Cup of tea: indication that you like something; your preference—that’s my cup of tea

Tosh: nonsense

Rozzer: police officer

Miffed: upset; disappointed

Full of beans: energetic; lively

Snog: make out

Bum: bottom

Get off: make out; snog—they were getting off in the living room

Hoover: vacuum

Hoover is the name of a vacuum cleaner company (that now also produces other goods). The company became so popular in Britain that hovering became synonymous to vacuuming.

William Henry “Boss” Hoover was the original founder of the company (a relative of his invented a basic vacuum machine and sold the patent to Hoover after his wife became impressed using the machine).

The company was originally named the Electric Suction Sweeper Company, but the name was changed after Hoover’s death.

Wicked: great; amazing; brilliant. Can also mean very—the band was wicked loud. Also, means twisted, mean, or mad—that was a wicked witch

Dodgy: suspicious; not quite right; dishonest—that man was dodgy

A tad: a little bit—it was a tad on the dark side

Toff: a person from the upper classes

Bollocking: being punished—he had a good bollocking

Car boot sale: yard sale; flea market

Quite right: that’s right

Right you are: that’s right

Donkey’s years: ages—it hadn’t happened in donkey’s years

Peanuts: very cheap—I had it for peanuts at the local shop

Fortnight: two weeks

Horses for courses: what’s fitting for one case isn’t fitting for another. This came from racehorses being best suited at performing on racecourses

Float my boat: something agrees with you—that man floats my boat

John Thomas: penis

Plastered: drunk—he was plastered

CV: curriculum vitae; resumé

Damp squib: an event that one thought would be great, but turns out miserable, or disappointing

Chock-a-block: closely packed together—the traffic was chock-a-block

Chunder: to vomit

Jammy dodger: being lucky

Jammie Dodgers are a type of biscuits which were named after the Beano comics character Rodger the Dodger, who managed to dodge chores and homework.

Hence, the term jammy dodger became associated with someone who had undeserved luck.

Kerfuffle: a fuss, or commotion, usually related to opposing views

Meat and two veg: men’s genitalia

Chav: white trash

Cream crackered: very tired. Originated as a rhyme on knackered

Chavtastic : so appalling a chav would enjoy it

It’s monkeys outside: it’s cold outside

It’s monkeys outside comes from the phrase: “It’s cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey.” This actually does not mean what you think it does.

A brass monkey wasn’t a statue in brass depicting a monkey, but a brass stand where cannon balls were stacked. Possibly, the cannon balls were more likely to fall off in cold weather.

Laughing gear: mouth—usually a rude way of telling someone to be quiet would be to tell them to shut their laughing gear

The old Bill: constable (a.k.a. police officer)

Bang to rights: caught in the act—he was bang to rights thieving around

Stag night: bachelor’s party

Hen night: bachelorette party

Dobber: penis

Bellend: tip of the penis

Rubbish: garbage

Whinge: whine

Skive: appearing to work while in fact avoiding it

Loo: toilet; bathroom—I’m going to the loo

Punter: a prostitute or strip joint’s customer

Nick: steal—he nicked a diamond right out under her nose 

Scouser: someone from Liverpool

Bits and bobs: different things—we had a few bits and bobs stored away in the cupboard 

Gobsmacked: amazed

Chips: french fries

Crisps: chips

Starkers: naked

Chap: man; boy; friend—there’s a good chap

Bog roll: toilet paper

Shambles: disarray; mess—the room was in shambles

It’s gone to shambles: it’s gone down the drain

Anorak: someone obsessively or overly interested in something

Off to Bedfordshire: off to bed

I’ve got the hump: I’m feeling grumpy

Cock up: mess; misunderstanding

Off to spend a penny: going to the toilet

Dishy: good looking—he’s dishy

Bob’s your uncle: your success is guaranteed; there you go; that’s it

In 1887 Prime Minister Robert Cecil (Bob), appointed his nephew, Arthur Balfour, as Chief Secretary for Ireland. It was an apparent case of favouritism.

As such, the phrase “Bob’s your uncle” came to mean “you’re guaranteed success,” or “that’s it,” or “it’s sorted.”

Pants: knickers; panties

On the pull: looking for love

Easy peasy: super easy

See a man about a dog: excuse oneself for a short person of time, whether to use the bathroom, or do something else

A spanner in the works: something that disrupts smooth operation or functioning—he threw a spanner in the works to prevent her from succeeding in her venture

Know one’s onions: knowing of that which you speak; being knowledgeable

Dog’s dinner: a mess—it was a tog’s dinner when we arrived at the crime scene

How’s your father?: sex

To have a butcher’s: to have a look

A spot of: a little bit of—let’s have a spot of tea

Have a natter: have a chat (usually leaning towards gossip, or just chatting away without much depth to the conversation)

Up the duff: being pregnant

Strawberry creams: a woman’s breasts

Shag: have sex

Bonk someone: have sex with someone

Bonking: having sex. Here’s a quote form Bridget Jones’ Diary 3 : “You need some good old-fashioned lie-back-and-think-of-England bonking.”

Hard line: misfortune; bad luck

In for a penny, in for a pound: if you started something, you may as well go full out and really dive into it (it stems from the fact that back in the day, if you owed a penny you might as well owe a pound due to the severity of the penalties being about the same)

Cheers: a toast, or thank you

Lass: girl; woman (esp. Scottish)

Lad: boy; man

Aye: yes (esp. Scottish)

Death warmed up: pale or sickly—he looked like death warmed up

Laugh like a drain: to laugh with a loud, coarse, sound

Clink: prison

Laugh up one’s sleeve: to laugh secretly, or to oneself

Bright as a button: very smart, or cheery

Old Blighty: Britain

Full Monty: the whole package; everything—it was the full Monty. Can also mean to be in the nude, as you show everything

Fanny around: delay; procrastinate

Fanny: vagina

Gobsmacked: amazed; shocked

Eating irons: cutlery

Chivvy along: hurry up

Brill : brilliant

Rugger: rugby

Stonking: impressively large; exciting

Box clever: to act wisely

Across the pond: across the Atlantic Ocean, meaning the United States, which you find across the pond

Do a runner: leave abruptly, usually without fulfilling a commitment

Cack-handed: an awkward or inept way of doing something—that was a cack-handed way of repairing the sink

Cack-handed possibly comes from the idea that people use their right hand to eat and their left hand to wipe their bottoms. And if you use your left hand when you’re right handed, you’re bound to make a mess. It could also come from the fact that people who are cack-handed make a mess.

Make the running: set the pace; being more involved than others in a situation

Double Dutch: gibberish; incomprehensible

Take the mickey: take the piss; make fun of someone

Wag off: leave early from school, work, or some other duty. Can also mean to warn someone off something or someone

Queer: weird, odd, strange, slightly unwell—I’m feeling queer Also, gay; homosexual

Bees knees: awesome; fantastic

Queer someone’s plans: spoil someone’s plans or chances of doing something, especially secretly or maliciously

Hard cheese: tough luck; bad luck; hard lines—usually referring to someone going through misfortune

In the club: pregnant—she’s in the club

Kick one’s heels: pass time while waiting for something

Leave the field clear; leave the field open: not competing (or stop competing) with someone so that they can succeed

Heath Robinson: an overly complicated or ingenious machine which usually serves a simple purpose

William Heath Robinson (1872-1944) was a British Cartoonist. He was famous for humorous illustrations of fantastical inventions, involving complicated machinery that often served a simple purpose. In short, overcomplicated, fancy looking machines.

Money for old rope: money paid for goods of poor value

Not cricket: not fair; dishonest; immortal

Blatant: obvious

Botch: do a bad job with something—she botched us when painting that painting

Her Majesty’s pleasure: prison. It comes from Her Majesty’s Prison—HMP

Plastered: drunk

Lush: pleasing; desirable—she was lush

Cram: squeeze something in; to stuff;  sometimes in relation to learning something—I was cramming before the exam

Pukka: excellent; first class

First class: excellent; brilliant; pukka

Knackered: exhausted

Knickers: panties

Wind-up merchant: a teaser; someone who likes winding people up; someone who like playing practical jokes on people

Dog in the manger: someone who withholds something they cannot use themselves

Dog in the manger comes from a story about a dog who withheld the hay in a manager from other animals, even though he wasn’t interested in eating it himself.

Nip; nip out: go somewhere for a short amount of time—I’m just going to nip to the shop

Gaffer: director; manager (also: electrician on film sets)

Curate’s egg: something that’s partially good and partially bad

Go spare: becoming extremely angry, or distraught

Riot: great time—the party was a riot

Off one’s chump: mad

Spawny: lucky

Watering hole: pub

Honk: vomit

Earwig: eavesdrop

Argy-bargy: noisy quarrelling

Knees-up: a party where people dance

Numpty: reckless, unwise, or absentminded person

Dander : walk—going for a dander

Big girl’s blouse: wimpy; emasculate; weak man

Beastly: horrible

Naff: lame; uncool; unfashionable 

Have a bash: have a go; attempt at doing something—I’ve never done it before, but I’ll have a bash at it

Scrummy: delicious

Lose your marbles: lose your mind; go mad—I was losing my marbles over one silly little argument

Footy: soccer

At loose ends: not knowing what to do in a situation, or not having anything to do (boredom)—I was at loose ends with the whole thing (meaning: I didn’t know what to do with the whole thing)

Tickety-boo: when something is going smoothly

Apples and pears: Cockney rhyme for stairs

While the term “cockney” originally referred to city dwellers, later Londoners and even later those from East London (a working class area) and their dialect—Cockney English—it now means the working class dialect in London and those who speak it.

Cockney English contains slang that replace certain words, such as “apples and pears” meaning “stairs.” “Run up the apples and pears to fetch a pitcher, please.” The words replacing a word, as a general rule, rhymes with the word. 

Some examples include:

• Adam and Eve: believe
• Alan Whickers: knickers
• Artful Dodger: lodger
• Baked bean: queen
• Baker’s Dozen: cousin
• Ball and chalk: walk
• Barney rubble: trouble
• China plate: mate
• Daisy roots: boots
• Duke of Kent: rent

That’s our guide to British insults, slang & phrases. What did you learn that was new?

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Meaning of cruise in English

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• They're going on a cruise round the Med.
• They've just set off on a round-the-world cruise.
• Do you dream of a luxury skiing holiday or a Caribbean cruise?
• age of sail
• ocean-going
• under sail idiom
• They are cruising off the west coast of Vancouver Island.
• Thousands of spectators watched the tall ships cruise the Detroit River.
• After launch , the probe will cruise for 6 months before intercepting the comet beyond Earth's orbit .
• The car is more fuel efficient because the engine can run on just three of six cylinders when cruising.
• A guy cruised up in a convertible and offered me a lift .
• He goes cruising the streets looking for places to rob .
• Our department is doing all the work while the rest of the business is cruising.

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

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using British slang on my British husband #shorts

Posted: June 6, 2024 | Last updated: June 6, 2024

using British slang on my British husband #shorts #british #ldr

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The six 2026 itineraries range from 13 to 21 days and cost between $159,000 and $229,000 per person.

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It’s never too early to start planning a vacation. Just ask Four Seasons .

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“Our goal is to create connections with travelers of this generation and the next, fostering a legacy of transformative experiences that extend far beyond the journey,” Marc Speichert, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of Four Seasons, said in a statement.

The 2026 itineraries range from 13 to 21 days and cost between $159,000 and $229,000 per person. To start planning your trip, visit the Four Seasons website or email the team at [email protected].

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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