Are there any words that are specific to the DC area? Clinton Yates of the Washington Post gives a handy primer on a few words (or lexical items, as linguists call them) that originated in or are unique to DC; you’ll find the article here.
Some of the words that we’ve found – including terms that refer to people, things, places, and states of mind – are listed below, along with some possible definitions offered by native Washingtonians.
Bama/bamma – noun. Someone who doesn’t know how to dress or act; country; out of style; someone who can’t dress or is uncool
Goosin’ – verb. To ogle someone closely, especially someone you find attractive
Ji/ jai/ jah – adv. Really/ very (used for emphasis)
Jont – noun. A place; a word used to describe something (ex. referring to a car: “That jont is fast”; a thing/ anything
Kirk – verb. To become angry or lose control
Lunchin – adj. Tripping; Off one’s rocker; Something crazy; Acting a fool
Main man 100 grand – noun. Best friend
Moe – noun. Replacement word for ‘homie’, ‘son’, or ‘bro’; used when making reference to a stranger or friend
Siced – adj. Hyped up; Instigating; Excited/ pumped/ ready to go; Happy
Vicious – adj. Bad in a good way, referring to looks, food, experience of any kind; good; cool
Wellin’ – verb. Telling a lie
A WUSA segment on DC words:
A DMV native describing words commonly used in the area:
Let us know about alternative spellings, meanings, or other words, by leaving a comment below!