noun
Uncommon
cuz
KUHZ
Cuz (noun) means an informal shortening of "cousin.". Example: “My cuz is coming to stay for the weekend.”
noun
1
An informal shortening of "cousin."
"My cuz is coming to stay for the weekend."
"I'm meeting my cuz for lunch after her exam on Friday."
"Her cuz lives abroad, so they mostly talk on video calls."
2
An informal, friendly way of addressing someone, not necessarily an actual relative.
""What's up, cuz?" he called out to his old friend."
"Thanks for the lift, cuz, I owe you one."
""Come on, cuz, let's grab some food," he laughed to his teammate."
How to use cuz
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCasual slang for "cousin," also used as a friendly nickname for someone who isn't literally your cousin.
When to use it
Very informal — spoken or text/social-media use only, not appropriate in formal writing.
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Word forms
- Plural
- cuzzes
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My _____ is coming to stay for the weekend.
Etymology
A clipped, informal spelling of cousin.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “cuz” mean?
The word “cuz” means an informal shortening of "cousin.". In plain terms, casual slang for "cousin," also used as a friendly nickname for someone who isn't literally your cousin.
How do you pronounce “cuz”?
“Cuz” is pronounced KUHZ (/ˈkʌz/ in IPA).
How do you use “cuz” in a sentence?
Here is “cuz” used in a sentence: “My cuz is coming to stay for the weekend.”
What part of speech is “cuz”?
“Cuz” is a noun.
Is “cuz” a common word?
“Cuz” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “cuz” have?
“Cuz” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an informal shortening of "cousin.".
What is the difference between "cuz" and "cousin"?
"Cuz" is an informal, spoken shortening of "cousin" and carries a casual, friendly tone, while "cousin" is the standard term suitable for any setting. Write "cousin" in formal contexts and reserve "cuz" for relaxed conversation or messaging.
Is "cuz" only used for actual relatives?
No. Although "cuz" began as a short form of "cousin," it is also used as a friendly way of addressing someone who is not a relative at all, much like "mate" or "buddy." Context and tone usually make clear which meaning applies.
Is "cuz" the same as "'cause" (short for because)?
They are different words that can look alike in casual writing. "Cuz" is short for "cousin" or a friendly term of address, whereas "'cause" (sometimes also spelled "cuz" or "cos") is a clipped form of "because." Careful writers keep them apart to avoid confusion.
When should you use "cuz" instead of "cousin"?
Use "cuz" in informal, friendly settings such as texting, social media, or casual speech, especially when a relaxed tone is intended. Choose "cousin" for writing, introductions, or any situation where standard English is expected.
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