General
matey
What does matey mean?
A man's mistress or side-woman; a frequent subject of dancehall 'gyal tune' rivalries with the 'wifey'.
"Di wifey an' di matey buck up inna di dance."
Origin
Jamaican Patois for a rival woman / mistress.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'matey' mean in Jamaican slang?
A matey is a man's mistress or side-woman — the 'other woman' in a relationship.
What is the difference between 'matey' and 'wifey'?
The wifey is the main woman or wife, while the matey is the mistress; their rivalry is a classic dancehall theme.
How do you use 'matey'?
Use it to name the side-woman: 'Di wifey an' di matey buck up inna di dance.'
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