Street
yab
What does yab mean?
Means to tease or needle someone with pointed, witty remarks — ranging from light banter to biting social commentary. The related noun "yabis" describes this style of verbal sparring, famously used by Fela Kuti to satirize politicians and society.
"The comedian yab the whole audience, nobody was safe."
Origin
A Nigerian Pidgin verb for pointed teasing/insult; academically documented (including in the essay "Yabis: A Nigerian Genre of Insult") as the basis of "Yabis," the satirical verbal style popularized by musician Fela Kuti in 1970s Lagos.
Frequently asked questions
What does "yab" mean?
It means to tease or mock someone with a sharp, witty remark, ranging from playful banter to pointed social criticism.
What is "Yabis"?
Yabis is the broader Nigerian tradition of witty, satirical teasing/insult, made famous by musician Fela Kuti, who used it to mock politicians and social ills.
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