English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

AAVE

What do these AAVE words mean? Clear definitions, real examples and the origin of each term — kept clean and easy to read.

AAVE Terms

An affirmation meaning "okay", "sure" or "it's a deal". Can also signal confident agreement to a challenge.

Acting or living in a fancy, upscale way — sometimes admiringly, sometimes as gentle mockery of pretension.

Extremely good, especially of food — delicious. "Bussin bussin" is even better than bussin.

A lie or exaggeration. To "cap" is to lie; "no cap" means "no lie, I'm serious".

A sharp, effective retort to an insult or criticism — a comeback delivered with force.

Over the top, dramatic or excessive — doing more than a situation calls for.

Close friends treated like family — or a friendly way to address someone, similar to "mate" or "bro".

"Fixing to" — about to, or going to. Marks something you're on the verge of doing.

To show off something you have or have done, often boastfully — money, achievements, or possessions.

Very much, openly, or obviously — used to admit something strongly and without embarrassment. The counterpart to "lowkey".

Somewhat, quietly, or on the down-low — admitting something in a subtle or understated way. The opposite of "highkey".

An emphatic full stop added to a statement to mean "and that's final". The extra "t" strengthens the ordinary "period".

Evidence — usually screenshots or messages — that proves a claim, especially in an online dispute.

Bitter, resentful or annoyed, especially over something minor or a loss.

Subtle, pointed disrespect or a sly insult. To "throw shade" is to put someone down without saying anything openly hostile.

Describing a song (or occasionally food) as excellent — it "slaps" if it genuinely hits.

Looking flawless or perfectly put-together, especially describing hair, makeup or an outfit.

A tight-knit group of friends — your regular crew for hanging out or supporting each other.

Gossip or the inside story. "Spill the tea" means share the gossip; "what's the tea?" asks for the latest news.

Overeager for attention, approval or romantic interest — coming across as desperate.

A definitive, no-nonsense guide to street life, hustling, or the slang and codes of thug culture — the "bible" you'd swear by. Used figuratively for any trusted rulebook on surviving and coming up on the streets.

Alert and awake to social injustice, especially racism. The original sense is "stay aware"; the word has since been pulled in many political directions.