noun
lingo
LIHNG-goh
noun
1
The specialized vocabulary or way of speaking used by a particular group, trade, or region; jargon.
"It took her weeks to pick up the office lingo."
"Sailors have their own lingo for weather and rigging."
How to Use Lingo
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual word for the special vocabulary or slang used by a group of people.
When to use it
Informal — fine in conversation, but "terminology" or "jargon" reads better in formal writing.
Common pairings
technical lingo
legal lingo
pick up the lingo
Word Forms
lingos plural, lingoes plural, Lingos plural
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It took her weeks to pick up the office _____.
Etymology
From Latin lingua, "tongue" or "language," with a casual -o ending tacked on.