Ngozi Emeka

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Lamba Definitions by Ngozi Emeka

33 definitions

1

A plea to God, often used to express exasperation, desperation, or a fervent wish for divine intervention.

"God abeg, make this traffic clear."

Pronunciation:/ɡɒd əˈbɛɡ/
Origin:A Pidgin phrase combining 'God' with 'Abeg' (please).
Part of Speech:Interjection Phrase
Synonyms:God please
More Examples:
"To survive in this country, God abeg."
Popularized by:A very common expression in Nigeria, reflecting the religious nature of the society. It's used in situations of hardship, frustration, or when hoping for a miracle.
2

A slang term for a big ass or large buttocks.

"That girl is carrying kàká."

Pronunciation:/kɑːkɑː/
Origin:A Yoruba slang term, likely an emphatic or descriptive form related to 'ìkébè'.
Part of Speech:Noun
Synonyms:Big ass, Large buttocks
More Examples:
Popularized by:Used to specifically describe large buttocks.
3

A Yoruba slang term meaning 'It’s finished' or 'It's over'.

"The food is finished, lóbátán."

Pronunciation:/loʊbɑːtɑːn/
Origin:A contraction from the Yoruba phrase 'O de ibi ti o tan', meaning 'it has reached its end'.
Part of Speech:Adverb
Synonyms:It's finished, It's over
More Examples:
"The relationship is over, lóbátán."
Popularized by:A definitive statement that something has concluded.
4

An expression used to dismiss something as unimportant, trivial, or not worth worrying about. It means 'it doesn't matter'.

"Don't worry about the small mistake, forget that thing."

Pronunciation:/fɔːrˈɡɛt ðæt θɪŋ/
Origin:A direct, expressive phrase from Nigerian Pidgin. The imagery is of something so trivial it should be forgotten.
Part of Speech:Interjection Phrase
Synonyms:Never mind, It doesn't matter, Fashi am
More Examples:
"He's still angry? Abeg, forget that thing."
Popularized by:Commonly used to brush off concerns, end a pointless argument, or dismiss an issue.
5

To get drunk or to be in a state of drunkenness.

"He don shak up after just two bottles."

Pronunciation:/ʃæk ʌp/
Origin:A descriptive phrase, possibly from 'shake up', implying the disorienting effect of alcohol.
Part of Speech:Verb
Synonyms:Shayo, Get drunk
More Examples:
Popularized by:A common slang term for intoxication.
6

An expression that captures a feeling of excitement, agitation, impatience, or being on edge. It means one is feeling pumped up or energized, often in a high-stakes or emotionally charged situation.

"No waste my time, blood dey hot!"

Pronunciation:/blʌd deɪ hɒt/
Origin:A descriptive Pidgin English phrase that literally translates to 'blood is hot'.
Part of Speech:Idiomatic Phrase
Synonyms:Excited, Agitated, Impatient, Pumped up
More Examples:
"I'm ready for the match, blood dey hot."
Popularized by:Commonly used to express a sense of urgency or a heightened emotional state.
7

A slang term for sexual intercourse.

"He was caught trying to prak her."

Pronunciation:/præk/
Origin:The origin is not specified, likely a coded or onomatopoeic term.
Part of Speech:Noun/Verb
Synonyms:Straff, Frap, Sex
More Examples:
Popularized by:A crude, informal term.
8

A derogatory term for someone who portrays a fake or lavish lifestyle on social media (especially Instagram) that they do not live in reality.

"Don't be deceived by her posts, she's an Instifẹẹ."

Pronunciation:/ɪnstɪˈfeɪ/
Origin:A portmanteau of 'Instagram' and 'fake'.
Part of Speech:Noun
Synonyms:Fake life, Social media poser
More Examples:
Popularized by:A social media slang used to call out people who live fake lives online.
9

A phrase used to imply that someone's claims are unsubstantiated, lack sufficient proof, or are not believable.

"You said he stole the money? You go explain tire, no evidence."

Pronunciation:/noʊ ˈɛvɪdəns/
Origin:A direct English phrase adopted into slang.
Part of Speech:Noun Phrase
Synonyms:No proof, Unsubstantiated
More Examples:
"His entire argument was dismissed. No evidence."
Popularized by:Became a popular retort in online debates and arguments in 2024. It is often preceded by the phrase 'You go explain tire', which emphasizes the futility of explaining something without verifiable proof. It reflects a growing demand for accountability and facts in public discourse.
10

To talk, tell a story, or engage in a conversation or gist.

"Come yarn me wetin happen for party."

Pronunciation:/jɑːn/
Origin:Derived from the English word 'yarn', which means to tell a long or implausible story. In Nigerian slang, it has a broader meaning of simply talking or narrating.
Part of Speech:Verb
Synonyms:Gist, Talk, Narrate, Discuss
More Examples:
"I go yarn you the full gist later."
Popularized by:A very common slang term used in informal settings among friends and peers to initiate or refer to conversations and storytelling.
11

Still, yet, or not yet. Used to indicate something hasn't happened or is ongoing.

"I never chop bado."

Pronunciation:/ba.do/
Origin:Nigerian Pidgin adaptation.
Part of Speech:adverb
Synonyms:still, yet, never
More Examples:
"The rain dey fall bado."
"You never reach house bado?"
Popularized by:Common in everyday Nigerian conversation.
Since:1980
12

A playful expression of admiration or envy, used when one wishes to enjoy the same good fortune, success, or blessings that another person is experiencing.

"You just got a new job and a new car? Omo, God abeg barb me this style."

Pronunciation:/bɑːrb miː diːs staɪl/
Origin:The phrase uses 'barb' (as in a barber cutting hair) metaphorically to mean 'give me' or 'let me have' this particular 'style' or good fortune.
Part of Speech:Imperative Phrase
Synonyms:I want this too, I tap into your blessing
More Examples:
Popularized by:Became popular in social media comment sections in 2024 as a humorous way to react to someone's post about their achievements, blessings, or desirable situations.
13

Brand new.

"He just bought an agánrán car."

Pronunciation:/ɑːɡɑ̃nrɑ̃n/
Origin:A Yoruba slang term for something that is new and unused.
Part of Speech:Adjective
Synonyms:Brand new, Tear rubber, Oshara
More Examples:
Popularized by:Used to describe new items.
14

A slang term for 'whining', complaining, or nagging.

"Stop doing fiipá and just do the work."

Pronunciation:/fiːpɑː/
Origin:A Yoruba slang term.
Part of Speech:Noun
Synonyms:Whining, Complaining
More Examples:
Popularized by:Used to describe the act of complaining excessively.
15

Refers to a group of people who wholeheartedly and enthusiastically agree with a speaker or a particular viewpoint, often without critical thought.

"The politician's speech was met with loud cheers from his amen corner."

Pronunciation:/eɪˈmɛn ˈkɔːrnər/
Origin:The term draws a parallel to a church congregation where people say 'amen' in unison to agree with prayers. In slang, it's extended to any situation involving strong, collective agreement.
Part of Speech:Noun Phrase
Synonyms:Yes-men, Sycophants, Supporters
More Examples:
Popularized by:Used humorously or critically to describe sycophants or a group of people showing blind support.
16

The Yoruba word for 'Water'.

"Please give me omi."

Pronunciation:/oʊmi/
Origin:Directly from the Yoruba language.
Part of Speech:Noun
Synonyms:Water
More Examples:
Popularized by:An essential vocabulary word in Yoruba.
17

A refined, sophisticated, or classy person. It can also describe something as being fancy or high-class.

"She is very tush, she doesn't eat at bukas."

Pronunciation:/tʊʃ/
Origin:The origin is not specified, but it's a popular slang term.
Part of Speech:Adjective/Noun
Synonyms:Posh, Classy, Refined, Sophisticated
More Examples:
"He bought a tush car."
Popularized by:Often used to describe people who behave in a polished manner, contrasting with 'street' or 'razz' behavior.
18

The act of making or spending money, especially in a lavish or enjoyable way. It implies actively acquiring and enjoying wealth.

"That guy is really chopping money in his new business."

Pronunciation:/tʃɒpɪŋ ˈmʌni/
Origin:A metaphorical extension of the Pidgin word 'chop' (to eat). Just as one eats food, one 'eats' or consumes money. The phrase adds a sense of energy and enthusiasm to the act of making money.
Part of Speech:Verb Phrase
Synonyms:Making money, Spending lavishly, Living large
More Examples:
"We are going out tonight to chop money."
Popularized by:A common expression that reflects the aspirational and often flamboyant money culture in Nigeria.
19

A 'Compound Fool'; a complete and utter fool.

"Only a dòbodé would fall for that trick."

Pronunciation:/dɔːboʊdeɪ/
Origin:A Yoruba slang term, likely a creative compound word to emphasize the level of foolishness.
Part of Speech:Noun
Synonyms:Complete fool, Utter fool
More Examples:
Popularized by:A strong insult for someone perceived as extremely foolish.
20

An expression of acknowledgment for the complexities, ironies, or difficulties of life. It translates to 'That's quite something' or 'Things are happening'.

"The cost of living just keeps rising. E be things."

Pronunciation:/iː biː θɪŋz/
Origin:A Pidgin English phrase that captures the shared experience of navigating life's challenges.
Part of Speech:Interjection Phrase
Synonyms:Inside life, Such is life, Na so we see am
More Examples:
"My friend just went through a tough breakup. E be things."
Popularized by:Often sprinkled into conversations, particularly when discussing the struggles of adulthood, to foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.
21

A slang phrase meaning 'No problem'. It can also be used sarcastically to mean 'Nice one' when a situation is actually not good.

"Can you help me later? Yeah, no wam."

Pronunciation:/noʊ wæm/
Origin:A new slang term where 'Wam' is understood to mean 'problem' or 'issue'.
Part of Speech:Interjection Phrase
Synonyms:No problem, No wahala
More Examples:
"The power just went out again. No wam."
Popularized by:Gained popularity in 2024 as a laid-back way to dismiss issues or express resigned acceptance of a disappointing situation.
22

The state of being lied to or deceived.

"I realized I was in a state of múulè when he never paid back."

Pronunciation:/muːleɪ/
Origin:A Yoruba slang term.
Part of Speech:Noun/State of being
Synonyms:Deceived, Duped
More Examples:
Popularized by:Used to describe a situation where one has been duped.
23

To bribe someone, typically an official or someone in a position of power, to gain favor or bypass regulations.

"He had to sort the police officer to avoid getting arrested."

Pronunciation:/sɔːrt/
Origin:From the English phrase 'sort someone out', adapted to mean providing a bribe.
Part of Speech:Verb
Synonyms:Bribe, Settle
More Examples:
"You need to sort the lecturer to pass the course."
Popularized by:A common euphemism for bribery in Nigeria, reflecting a societal issue.
24

A declaration of self-importance, uniqueness, or divine favor. It signifies a belief that one is special, blessed, or 'chosen by God' for success and protection.

"I passed the exam everyone failed, I am a chosen."

Pronunciation:/aɪ æm ə ˈtʃoʊzən/
Origin:The phrase originated from viral video clips of testimonies delivered at the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement, a prominent Nigerian church.
Part of Speech:Declarative Sentence
Synonyms:I am special, I am blessed, I am favored
More Examples:
"Don't worry about me, I am a chosen."
Popularized by:Evolved from its religious context into a humorous cultural phenomenon in 2024. It is widely used by influencers, celebrities, and the general public to playfully highlight their distinctiveness or perceived special status in various non-religious situations.
25

A sharp, playful, and rhetorical question used to mock someone's poor judgment or a questionable decision. It translates to 'Is this the brain you use to cross the road?'.

"You invested all your money in that fake scheme? Na this brain you dey use cross road?"

Pronunciation:/nɑː diːs breɪn juː deɪ juːz krɔːs roʊd/
Origin:A creative Nigerian Pidgin insult that questions someone's basic common sense by relating their intellectual capacity to the simple but critical task of crossing a road.
Part of Speech:Interrogative Sentence
Synonyms:Are you foolish?, That's a dumb idea
More Examples:
Popularized by:Dominated TikTok and other social media platforms in 2024, frequently used in skits, memes, and comment sections to ridicule foolish actions or bad choices in a humorous way.
26

A sarcastic and humorous phrase used to dismiss those who are too literal or slow to understand a joke, an irony, or a nuanced point. It implies that the meaning is obvious to those who are smart enough to understand.

"My joke was clearly satire. You get it! If you don't gerrit forget about it."

Pronunciation:/juː ɡɛt ɪt! ɪf juː doʊnt ɡɛrɪt fɔːrˈɡɛt əˈbaʊt ɪt/
Origin:The phrase originated from a viral vox pop interview on the street.
Part of Speech:Conditional Sentence
Synonyms:If you know, you know
More Examples:
Popularized by:Became a popular meme and sound on social media, used to end an explanation with a humorous, slightly arrogant flair.
27

A Pidgin word meaning 'a long time'. Reduplicated as 'tey tey' for emphasis.

"I have been waiting for you since tey."

Pronunciation:/teɪ/
Origin:The origin is not specified, but it's a core vocabulary word in Nigerian Pidgin.
Part of Speech:Adverb
Synonyms:Long time
More Examples:
"That story happened tey tey."
Popularized by:Used to describe a long duration or something that happened long ago.
28

To think hard, calculate, or strategize carefully before making a move, especially to avoid negative consequences like poverty (sapa).

"Omooo before I make any move me I dey 1+1/calcu everything oooo, make sapa no go follow me drag bread."

Pronunciation:/ˈkælkuː/
Origin:A shortened form of the English word 'calculate'.
Part of Speech:Verb
Synonyms:Strategize, Think hard, Plan, 1+1
More Examples:
Popularized by:A slang term that emphasizes the need for careful planning and foresight in navigating life's challenges.
29

An exclamation of excitement, surprise, or admiration, similar to saying 'Wow!' or 'Damn!'.

"Gyat! Look at that car!"

Pronunciation:/ɡjɑːt/
Origin:A global Gen Z slang term, often associated with online gaming and streaming culture (e.g., Twitch).
Part of Speech:Interjection
Synonyms:Wow, Damn
More Examples:
"She scored the winning goal, gyat!"
Popularized by:Adopted by Nigerian youth in 2024 as a new, trendy exclamation to express strong positive surprise.
30

Crazy, mad, or out of one's mind.

"That guy don kolo."

Pronunciation:/ko.lo/
Origin:Nigerian slang, possibly from Yoruba.
Part of Speech:adjective
Synonyms:crazy, mad, insane
More Examples:
"No kolo for here."
"You dey kolo?"
Popularized by:Popular in Nigerian youth culture.
Since:1990
31

News, gossip, or interesting story to share.

"Give me the full gist."

Pronunciation:/gist/
Origin:English word 'gist' adapted to mean gossip/news.
Part of Speech:noun
Synonyms:news, gossip, story
More Examples:
"I get hot gist for you."
"Wetin be the latest gist?"
Popularized by:Popular among Nigerian youth.
Since:1990
32

A Yoruba word meaning 'free me', 'release me', or 'leave me'. In slang, it's used to tell someone to drop a topic, stop bothering you, or to create space.

"Stop stressing me, tule jare!"

Pronunciation:/tuːˈleɪ/
Origin:Directly from the Yoruba language.
Part of Speech:Verb/Interjection
Synonyms:Leave me, Free me
More Examples:
"He just grabbed the money and shouted 'Tule!'"
Popularized by:Coined and popularized as a slang term by the artist Davido, who shouted it in a viral video. It's used to express a desire to be left alone or to move on from a situation.
33

An expression of agreement or affirmation, similar to 'that kind of thing' or 'exactly'. It serves as a default response to something one agrees with.

"Person 1: This party is boring. Person 2: Type shit."

Pronunciation:/taɪp ʃɪt/
Origin:The phrase was popularized by the song 'Type Shit' from Future and Metro Boomin’s 2024 album 'We Don’t Trust You'.
Part of Speech:Interjection Phrase
Synonyms:Exactly, For real, Dat kai tin
More Examples:
"That's the kind of energy I'm on. Type shit."
Popularized by:Adopted by Nigerian youth from international hip-hop culture, showing the influence of global music trends on local slang.

User Statistics

Total Lamba:33
Total Votes:901
Average Votes:27

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