Street
shakara
What does shakara mean?
Describes exaggerated posturing to impress or maintain distance — from flashy dressing to romantic coyness. 'Do shakara' means to act pretentious or aloof.
"She was doing shakara like she wasn't interested, but she liked him well well."
Origin
Popularised through Fela Kuti's Afrobeat track 'Shakara.' Widely used across both Nigerian Pidgin and Yoruba conversation; several sources note it blended into Yoruba from Pidgin usage.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'do shakara' mean?
It means to show off, act arrogant, or play hard-to-get — putting on an exaggerated display to impress or create distance.
Where does Shakara come from?
It's tied to Fela Kuti's classic Afrobeat song 'Shakara,' and has since become common in both Pidgin and Yoruba slang.
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