Street
big up
What does big up mean?
To praise, salute or give respect and recognition to a person or group.
"Big up all di massive inna di dance tonight!"
Origin
Jamaican Patois that spread through dancehall and reggae sound-system culture, then into UK street slang and grime. Now common across British and Caribbean English.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'big up' mean in texting?
It means giving someone praise or a shout-out, like saying 'respect' or 'props' to them.
Where did 'big up' come from?
It comes from Jamaican Patois and spread through reggae and dancehall sound-system culture into UK slang.
Is 'big up' positive?
Almost always — it's a way of celebrating or respecting someone, though it can be teasing when you say someone's been big-upped too much.
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