CaliSlang

Dictionary

516 entries across four tracks. Every word is tagged with the region it belongs to, how widely it is understood, and whether it is safe to say in front of strangers.

516 entries

  • a huevo

    ah weh-vohphrase

    Hell yes, or you have to.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • a la verga

    ah lah vehr-gahphrase

    Forget it, or get out of here — very strong.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • a minute

    uh min-itphrase

    A significant amount of time, usually implying a long duration.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • a toda madre

    ah toh-dah mah-drehphrase, adjective

    Really great — a vulgar compliment.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • A1

    ey-wuhnadjective

    The best; excellent.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • ahorita

    ah-oh-ree-tahadverb

    Soon, but not always right now.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • albur

    ahl-boornoun

    A clever joke that has two meanings, often rude.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • all up in my biznezz

    awl up in my biz-nezzphrase

    Intrusively involved in someone's personal matters or business.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • amped

    amptadjective

    Excited or energized, often used to express enthusiasm.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • amped up

    ampt uhpadjective, phrase

    Energetic, excited, or highly motivated.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ándale

    ahn-dah-lehinterjection

    Come on, or that’s right.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • animal style

    an-uh-muhl stylphrase, adjective

    A popular secret In-N-Out burger style.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • avo

    ah-vohnoun, abbreviation

    Short for avocado.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Baby Bullet

    bay-bee bool-itnoun

    The express Caltrain.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bae

    baynoun, abbreviation

    "Bae" is a slang term that stands for "Before Anyone Else". It's often used as a term of endearment to describe someone who is important to you, such as a romantic partner, close friend, or family member. It's commonly used in text messages and social media posts to show affection.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • bail

    beylverb

    To leave suddenly, or to cancel.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • Baja

    bah-hahadjective, abbreviation

    The part of Mexico just south of California; also a trip there.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • baller

    baw-lernoun, adjective

    A successful, flashy person.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • banger

    bang-ernoun, adjective

    A great party or event.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bara

    bah-rahadjective

    Very or really; used for emphasis.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • barney

    bahr-neenoun, adjective

    A beginner, especially in surf or skate.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • barrio

    BAH-rree-ohnoun

    A neighborhood.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • BART

    bartnoun

    The Bay Area subway and commuter train.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • bay area blessing

    bey eh-ree-uh bles-ingnoun, phrase

    A traffic-free commute.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • beachin

    beech-inverb, adjective

    Enjoying the beach or coastal lifestyle.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Beamer

    bee-mernoun, abbreviation

    Short for a BMW, another luxury car brand.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Benz

    noun, abbreviation

    Short for a Mercedes-Benz, a luxury car brand.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Berkeley

    burk-leeadjective

    A city near Oakland; also means very left-wing or alternative.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Berzerkeley

    ber-zerk-leenoun

    A joking nickname for Berkeley.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bet

    verb, noun

    Yes; okay; I agree.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • beta

    bey-tuhnoun, adjective

    An early test version of a product.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • big face

    big feysnoun, adjective

    Slang for a large denomination of currency, typically referring to a hundred-dollar bill.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bip

    bɪpverb

    To move fast; or to hit someone.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • bird

    noun

    A large amount of an illegal drug.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • birria

    beer-ee-uhnoun

    A Mexican meat stew, often served as tacos with broth.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bless up

    bles upverb, phrase

    A way to wish someone well.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • blessed

    blestadjective, verb

    Feeling lucky or grateful.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • blessings

    bles-ingznoun

    Thanks or good wishes.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Boba

    boh-bahnoun, abbreviation

    A sweet tea drink with little chewy balls in it.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bomb

    bahmadjective, noun

    Very good, especially food.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • bombita

    bahm-bee-tuhnoun

    Small, awesome thing.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • boujee

    boo-zheeadjective

    Posh, luxurious, or characterized by a high-end and sophisticated lifestyle.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • brazy

    brey-zeeadjective

    Crazy or extreme.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bread

    brednoun

    Slang for money or income. The new job pays well; I'm finally making some decent bread. Saving up that bread for a dream vacation. She hustles hard to bring in that bread for her family.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • brewskis

    broo-skeesnoun

    Beers.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bro

    noun, interjection

    A word for a male friend.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • broccoli

    brok-uh-leenoun

    Marijuana.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • brogrammer

    broh-gram-ernoun, abbreviation

    A programmer who acts like a frat boy.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • buena onda

    bweh-nah on-dahnoun, phrase

    Good vibes (Spanish influence).

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • bum

    buhmnoun, verb

    To ask someone for something small.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • busted

    bus-tidadjective, verb

    Ugly, or caught doing something wrong.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • butthurt

    buht-hurtadjective

    Being extremely upset for no reason.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • C-Note

    see-nohtnoun

    A hundred-dollar bill.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cabbage

    ka-bijnoun

    Money.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cabron

    kah-bronnoun, adjective

    A swear that can mean buddy, jerk, or something intense.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cagarla

    kah-gar-lahverb

    To mess something up badly.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • caguama

    kah-gwah-mahnoun

    A very large bottle of beer.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • caked up

    keykt uhpadjective

    Having a lot of money or wealth, often used to describe financial success.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Cali

    kal-eenoun, abbreviation

    A short name for California.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • Cali Love

    kal-ee luhvnoun, phrase

    Pride or affection for California.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Cali Roll

    kal-ee rohlnoun

    A sushi roll with avocado, usually crab and cucumber.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • California burrito

    kal-uh-for-nyuh bur-ee-tohnoun

    A burrito with steak and french fries, from San Diego.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Caltrain

    kal-traynnoun

    The train between San Francisco and San Jose.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • camarada

    kah-mah-rah-dahnoun

    Comrade or close friend.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • came up

    keym uhpverb

    To achieve success or improvement, often in a financial or social context.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • camote

    kah-moh-tehnoun

    Sweet potato or candy.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • carnal

    kar-NAHLnoun

    A very close friend, like a brother.

    Spanish & ChicanoSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Carne Asada Fries

    kar-ney ah-sah-duh frahyznoun, phrase

    Fries with grilled beef, cheese, and guacamole.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cattin’ off

    kat-in offverb, phrase

    Wasting time or flirting around.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • chale

    chah-lehinterjection

    No way, or damn.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chamba

    chahm-bahnoun

    A job, or work.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chamoy

    chah-moynoun

    A tangy, spicy Mexican sauce for fruit and snacks.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chapín

    chah-peennoun

    A person from Guatemala.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • charro

    CHAH-rrohnoun

    A traditional Mexican cowboy.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chavo

    chah-vohnoun

    A guy or young man.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cheddar

    ched-ernoun, adjective

    Money.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cheese

    cheeznoun

    Slang for money, often used to refer to a substantial amount.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chela

    cheh-lahnoun

    A beer.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chido

    chee-dohadjective

    Cool.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • chiflado

    chee-FLAH-dohadjective

    Spoiled; or a little crazy.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chill spot

    chil spotnoun, phrase

    A relaxed place to hang out.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chillax

    chil-laksverb

    Combining "chill" and "relax," meaning to calm down or take it easy.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • chinga tu madre

    cheen-gah too mah-drehphrase

    A very serious insult: fuck your mother.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • chingada

    cheen-GAH-dahnoun, verb

    A strong Spanish swear word.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chingazos

    cheen-gah-sohsnoun

    Punches, or a fight.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chingón

    cheen-gohnadjective, noun

    Really good or impressive. Strong language.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chingona

    cheen-goh-nahnoun, adjective

    A very capable, tough woman.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chirp

    churpverb, noun

    To flirt, or to talk trash.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chisme

    CHEES-mehnoun

    Gossip.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chismeadera

    chees-meh-ah-deh-rahnoun

    A person who spreads gossip or rumors.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cholo

    cho-lohnoun

    A young urban Mexican-American, often associated with a street gang.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • chula

    choo-lahnoun, adjective

    Beautiful, attractive (Spanish influence).

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Clipper

    klip-ernoun

    The Bay Area public-transit payment card.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • clout

    kloutnoun, verb

    Influence, prestige, or recognition, often in the context of social media.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • colonia

    koh-LOH-nee-ahnoun

    A neighborhood.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • come up

    kuhm uhpverb, phrase

    To become more successful; or a lucky win.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • compa

    kohm-pahnoun

    A close friend.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cotorrear

    koh-toh-rreh-arverb

    To chat a lot, often gossip.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cray

    kreyadjective

    An abbreviation of "crazy," often used to describe something wild or unbelievable.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • cream

    kreemnoun, verb

    Money.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • crib

    kribnoun

    Slang for a house or residence.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • crudo

    kroo-dohadjective

    Hungover.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cruise

    kroozverb, noun

    To drive slowly for fun.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cruisin

    kroo-zinverb, phrase

    Driving around with no real destination.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cruisy

    kroo-seeadjective

    Easy and relaxed.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cuate

    kwah-tehnoun

    Close friend or buddy.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cuffin

    kuhf-inverb, adjective

    Being in a romantic relationship, often characterized by public displays of affection.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cul-de-sac safari

    kuhl-dee-sak sah-far-eenoun, phrase

    Driving around suburban neighborhoods.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • culero

    koo-leh-rohnoun, adjective

    An asshole, or a coward.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • culo

    koo-lohnoun

    Ass.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • curtains

    kur-tinznoun

    Refers to the end or conclusion of something, often implying a negative outcome. Something is over or finished.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • curve

    kurvnoun, verb

    To reject or ignore someone romantically, often used in the context of dating.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • cuzz

    kuznoun

    Slang for cousin; often used as a term of familiarity or camaraderie.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • cuzzo

    kuz-ohnoun

    A term of endearment for cousin, similar to "cuzz.".

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • dank

    dangkadjective, noun

    High-quality or potent, often used to describe good marijuana.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • dankrupt

    dangk-ruptadjective

    Out of marijuana.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • darty

    dahr-teeadjective

    A party held during the day.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • dawn patrol

    dawn puh-trohlnoun

    Surfing very early in the morning.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Deep East

    deep eestnoun

    The far east side of Oakland.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • desmadre

    des-mah-drehnoun

    A mess, or wild chaos.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • deuces

    doo-siznoun, phrase

    A casual way to say goodbye.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • diamond lane

    dy-mund laynnoun

    The freeway lane for cars with more than one person.

    PlacesDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • dime

    dahymnoun

    Someone very attractive; a ten.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • dip

    verb, noun

    To leave a place.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • dogfooding

    dawg-foo-dingnoun, verb

    Using the product your own company makes.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • dope

    dohpadjective, noun, verb

    Very good.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • dope af

    dohp ey-effadjective, adverb

    Extremely cool, impressive, or awesome.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • down

    dounadverb, preposition

    Willing; I want to do that.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • drag

    noun, verb

    Something boring or annoying.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • DTLA

    dee-tee-el-aynoun

    Downtown Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • dubs

    duhbznoun

    Twenty-inch car rims.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • dubsy

    duhb-zeeadjective

    Twenty dollars of something.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • dude

    doodnoun

    A friendly word for a person; also a pause word.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • East Bay

    eest beynoun

    The area east of San Francisco Bay.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • elevate

    el-uh-veytverb

    To lift or raise, often used in a metaphorical sense to refer to improving one's state of mind.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Elote

    el-oh-teynoun

    Corn on the cob with Mexican-style toppings.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ese

    eh-saynoun

    A word for a male friend, used in some Latino communities.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • está perro

    eh-stah peh-rrohphrase

    Really intense, tough, or impressive.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • extra

    ek-struhadjective

    Over-the-top, dramatic, or excessive in behavior.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • faded

    fey-didadjective

    Intoxicated, often from consuming alcohol or drugs.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fam

    noun, abbreviation

    Close friends, or a friendly way to say “you.”

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • fasheezy

    fa-shee-zeeadjective

    Yes, definitely — said in a joking way.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • fasho

    fa-shoadverb

    Yes, definitely.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • feelin myself

    feelin mah-selfphrase

    To have a strong sense of self-confidence and positive feelings about oneself.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • feria

    feh-ryahnoun

    Cash; money.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fftb

    Faithful to the Bay

    Faithful to the Bay.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • finesse

    fuh-nessnoun, verb

    To handle or achieve something with skill, style, or cleverness.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • finna

    fin-nuhverb

    A contraction of "fixing to," meaning preparing or planning to do something.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fire season

    fire see-zunnoun

    The time of year when wildfires are common in California.

    SlangSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • firme

    FEER-mehadjective

    Very good; or loyal and reliable.

    Spanish & ChicanoSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fleek

    adjective

    Perfect, flawless, or on point, often used to describe well-groomed or stylish appearance.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • flex

    fleksverb, noun

    To show off.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • flexin

    fleks-inverb, adjective

    Showing off.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Fog City

    fog sit-eenoun

    A nickname for San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Fogust

    fog-uhstnoun

    August in San Francisco, when the fog makes it cold.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • FOMO

    foh-mohnoun, abbreviation

    Worry that you are missing something fun.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • for real

    for reylphrase

    Seriously; truly.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • for sure

    for shoorphrase

    Yes, definitely.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • for the f

    for the efphrase

    Without paying.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • for the low

    for the lohphrase

    For a low price.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • fresa

    freh-sahnoun

    Someone who acts rich or snobby.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fresh kicks

    adjective, noun

    Stylish sneakers.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • frisco

    fris-kohnoun

    A colloquial term for San Francisco, California.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • fro-yo

    froh-yohnoun

    Frozen yogurt.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • from the Yay

    fruhm thuh yayphrase

    From the Bay Area.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • funky fresh

    fuhn-kee freshadjective, adverb

    Cool in a stylish, old-school way.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • G

    jeenoun, abbreviation

    A friendly word for a person, like “man.”

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • G.O.A.T.

    jee-oh-ey-teenoun, abbreviation

    The best of all time.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • gabacho

    gah-bah-chohnoun, adjective

    A white American.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gacho

    gah-chohadjective

    Ugly, mean, or messed up.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gas, brake, dip

    gas brayk dipphrase

    A Bay Area car dance: speed up, brake, and bounce.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • gassed

    gastadjective, verb

    Very tired; or feeling too proud.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gassed up

    gast uhpadjective, phrase

    Overly excited or full of yourself.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • get stupid

    get stoo-pidverb, phrase

    To dance and act wild on purpose.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • ghost

    gohstnoun, verb

    To leave or stop talking to someone without explaining.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • ghost-ride

    gohst-rydverb, noun

    To dance next to a car that is still rolling.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • gig

    noun, verb

    A job, especially a short one or a show.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • giggin

    gig-inverb

    Working gigs, or having a good time.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ginja

    jin-juhnoun

    Someone from San Francisco.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • glo up

    gloh uhpverb, phrase

    To undergo a positive transformation, both in appearance and lifestyle.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gnar

    naradjective

    Extreme — very good or very bad.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gnarly

    nar-leeadjective

    Extreme; can mean very good or very bad.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • go dumb

    goh duhmverb, phrase

    To dance and act wild on purpose.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • go toes

    goh tohzverb, phrase

    To fight.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • gone

    gawnadjective, verb

    Very drunk or high.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Thank you.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Google bus

    goo-guhl busnoun

    Private buses tech companies run for employees.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gorra

    GOH-rrahnoun

    A hat; also means getting things for free.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • got fired on

    gaht fayrd onphrase, verb

    Got hit by someone.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • got me bent

    gaht mee bentphrase

    You are wrong about me.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • grapes

    graypsnoun

    Referring to a specific strain of marijuana, usually purple in color.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • gringo

    green-gohnoun

    A white American, or an English-speaking foreigner.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • grip

    noun, verb

    A lot, or a long while.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • grom

    noun

    A young surfer or skateboarder.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • grommet

    grom-itnoun

    A young, new surfer or skater.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • grommie

    grom-eenoun

    Young surfer or skateboarder.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • guap

    gwahpnoun

    Money.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gucci

    goo-cheeadjective

    Good; everything is fine.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • güero

    gweh-rohnoun

    Light-skinned person or blonde; used informally.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • güey

    waynoun, interjection

    A very common way to say dude, or to call someone an idiot.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • gully

    guhl-eeadjective, noun

    Rough or from a hard neighborhood.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • gyatt

    Nounnoun

    Gyatt is most commonly used as an exclamation in reaction to seeing a large butt (that is, the buttocks) and may be used as a noun to mean a large butt. The slang gyatt is an exclamation used to express excitement or shock, especially in reaction to seeing large buttocks or a voluptuous woman.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hanguear

    hang-geh-arverb

    To hang out.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hasta la madre

    ah-stah lah mah-drehphrase

    Completely fed up, or completely full.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • haterade

    hayt-raidnoun

    Jealous criticism.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • heavy

    hev-eeadjective

    Very serious or intense.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hecka

    hek-ahadverb

    Very — a polite way to say “hella”.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • heem

    noun

    To knock someone unconscious.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • hella

    hel-ahadverb

    Very, or a large amount.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • hella tight

    hel-ah tytadverb, adjective

    Really cool.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Henny

    hen-eenoun, abbreviation

    Short for Hennessy, a brand of cognac often associated with celebration.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • highkey

    hy-keeadverb

    Obviously or openly, not in secret.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • hijo de puta

    ee-hoh deh poo-tahphrase, noun

    Son of a bitch.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • híjole

    ee-hoh-lehinterjection

    Whoa, or oh no.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hike and hops

    hahyk and hahpsnoun, phrase

    A day of hiking followed by beer tasting.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • homie

    hoh-meenoun

    A good friend.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • hood

    huhdnoun

    Short for neighborhood, often used to describe a specific community or area.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • horchata

    or-chah-tuhnoun

    A sweet cinnamon rice drink.

    Spanish & ChicanoSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • huevón

    weh-vohnnoun, adjective

    A lazy person, or a buddy — tone decides.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hundo

    huhn-dohnoun, abbreviation

    One hundred percent; completely.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hundo p

    huhn-doh peenoun, abbreviation

    Totally; 100%.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • hustle

    huh-suhlnoun, verb

    Hard work, or a side way to make money.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • hyphy

    hy-feeadjective, noun

    Very excited and wild, especially while dancing.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ice

    ahysnoun

    Slang for jewelry, especially diamonds or other precious stones.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • im dead

    ahy-m dedphrase

    Used to express extreme amusement or surprise. It's a slang term often used in response to something funny or shocking. Similar expressions include "I'm dying" or "I'm dead serious.".

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • In-N-Out’ed

    in-n-out-edverb, phrase

    To have eaten at In-N-Out Burger.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • it's the Bay

    its thuh bayphrase

    That’s just how the Bay Area is.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • jaina

    HY-nahnoun

    A girlfriend.

    Spanish & ChicanoSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • janky

    jang-keeadjective

    Cheap, broken, or low quality.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • jawn

    noun

    A thing, person, or place — a fill-in word.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • jawsin

    verb

    Talking a lot, often bragging.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • jefa

    heh-fahnoun

    Boss or female leader.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • jelly

    jel-eenoun, adjective

    Jealous.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • jiggy

    jig-eeadjective

    Stylish or lively.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • joog

    noun, verb

    To steal from someone.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • joogin

    joog-inverb

    Getting a good deal or hookup.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • jug

    juhgnoun, verb

    To trick someone out of money.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • juiced

    joostadjective

    Very excited.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • June gloom

    joon gloomnoun

    Cloudy, cool weather on the Southern California coast in June.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • K-Town

    kay-townnoun

    Koreatown in Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Karl the Fog

    karl thuh fognoun

    A nickname for San Francisco’s fog.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • kicks

    kiksnoun

    Refers to sneakers or shoes.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • kicks on fire

    kiks on fayrnoun, phrase

    Trendy and stylish shoes.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • kook

    noun

    A bad or annoying surfer.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • kush

    noun

    High-quality marijuana.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • la chota

    lah choh-tahnoun

    The cops.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • la migra

    lah mee-grahnoun

    Immigration police.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • lana

    lah-nahnoun

    Money.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Left Coast

    left kohstnoun, phrase

    The West Coast, especially California.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • legit

    luh-jitadjective, adverb

    Real, not fake.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • lifted

    lift-edadjective

    High on drugs.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • like

    lahykpreposition, conjunction

    A filler word used while speaking.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • lit

    adjective

    Very fun; or drunk or high.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • lit af

    lit ey-effadjective, adverb

    Very exciting or fun.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • litty

    lit-eeadjective

    Fun and lively.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • litty committee

    lit-ee kuh-mit-eeadjective, noun

    A group that is always ready to party.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • litty kitty

    lit-ee kit-eeadjective, noun

    A very lively and exciting situation.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • lituation

    lit-yoo-ey-shunnoun

    A situation or event that is lit or highly enjoyable, often used to describe a party or celebration.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • locs

    loksnoun

    Sunglasses.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • lowkey

    loh-keeadjective, adverb

    Secretive or discreet, often used to describe something done in a subtle manner.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • lurk

    verb, noun

    To observe or stalk someone online without actively engaging with them.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Mac Dre

    mak draynoun

    A famous rapper from Vallejo, California.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mad

    adjective

    Angry or upset, often used to express frustration or annoyance.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • madrear

    mah-dreh-arverb

    To beat someone up.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • madrina

    mah-dree-nahnoun

    Godmother or female godparent.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mamadas

    mah-mah-dahsnoun

    Bullshit, or nasty talk.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • marine layer

    muh-reen lay-ernoun

    Low ocean clouds that make the coast cool and gray.

    SlangSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • me vale madre

    meh vah-leh mah-drehphrase

    I don’t care — strong.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mellow

    meh-lohadjective, verb

    Calm and relaxed.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mid

    midadjective

    Only okay; not special.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • mija

    MEE-hahnoun

    An affectionate word for a girl or woman.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mijo

    MEE-hohnoun

    An affectionate word for a boy or man.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mo fo

    moh fonoun, abbreviation

    Slang for a highly offensive term; a way to express frustration or disbelief.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mob

    mawbverb, noun

    To drive somewhere, usually with friends.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mojado

    moh-hah-dohnoun, adjective

    A slur for an undocumented immigrant.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • morra

    moh-rrahnoun

    A girl or young woman.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • mota

    moh-tahnoun

    Marijuana.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Muni

    myoo-neenoun

    San Francisco’s city buses and streetcars.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • naco

    nah-kohadjective, noun

    Tacky or low-class.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • nalgas

    nahl-gahsnoun

    Butt.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • nel

    nelinterjection

    No.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ñero

    nyeh-rohnoun

    A dark-skinned person or friend.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • neta

    neh-tahnoun, interjection

    The truth, or are you serious?

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • ni modo

    nee moh-dohphrase

    Oh well; nothing we can do.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • no cap

    no kapphrase

    I am telling the truth.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • no chill

    no chilphrase

    No self-control; too much.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • no mames

    noh mah-messphrase

    A strong no way, or you’re kidding.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • no manches

    noh mahn-chessphrase

    No way; you’re kidding.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • no yeah

    no yehphrase

    A way of saying yes.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • NoHo

    noh-honoun

    North Hollywood, in Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • NorCal

    nor-kalnoun

    The northern part of California.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • norcal nectar

    nor-kal nek-ternoun

    Quality Northern California wine.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • Oaktown

    ohk-townnoun

    A nickname for Oakland.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ocean brews

    oh-shun brooznoun

    Beers enjoyed by the ocean.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • off the grid

    awf thuh gridphrase

    Hard to reach, or away from phones and the internet.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • OG

    oh-geenoun, abbreviation

    Short for "Original Gangster," used to refer to someone with experience and respect.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • Old Sac

    ohld saknoun

    The historic old district of Sacramento.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • on another level

    on uh-nuh-thur lev-uhlphrase

    Indicates something exceptional, extraordinary, or surpassing expectations.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • on citas

    on see-tahsphrase

    Slang for being on time or as promised; honoring a commitment or appointment.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • on fleek

    adjective

    Looking perfect.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • on point

    adjective, phrase

    Exactly right; well done.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • órale

    oh-rah-lehinterjection

    A word for yes, wow, or hurry — depending on how you say it.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • out the way

    owt thuh wayphrase

    Behaving badly or rudely.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • outta pocket

    out-uh pok-itphrase

    Acting or speaking in a way that is not acceptable.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • P.O.

    pee-ohnoun, abbreviation

    A parole officer.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pachuco

    pah-CHOO-kohnoun

    A Mexican-American man of the 1940s zoot suit culture.

    Spanish & ChicanoSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • paisa

    pahy-sahnoun

    A word for a Mexican person, sometimes warm and sometimes mocking.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • palm tree paradise

    pahm tree par-uh-dahysnoun

    A beautiful coastal area.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • panocha

    pah-noh-chahnoun

    A vulgar word for female genitals.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • parquear

    par-keh-arverb

    To park a car.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • PCH

    pee-see-eychnoun, abbreviation

    The highway along California’s coast.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pedo

    peh-dohnoun, adjective

    Drunk, a problem, or a fart — context decides.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pendeja

    pen-deh-hahnoun

    A female idiot, or a woman calling herself dumb in the moment.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • pendejada

    pen-deh-hah-dahnoun

    A stupid thing someone did.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pendejo

    pen-deh-hohnoun, adjective

    An idiot, or an asshole.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • phubbing

    fuhb-ingverb

    Ignoring a person because you are looking at your phone.

    Silicon ValleyDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pinche

    peen-chehadjective

    A swear that means damn or fucking, placed before a noun.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • placa

    plah-kahnoun

    A cop, a badge, or a license plate.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • Placer

    plah-sernoun

    A county near Sacramento; also a type of gold deposit.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • playa hater

    ply-uh hay-ternoun

    A person who is jealous of someone else’s success.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • plug

    pluhgnoun, verb

    The person you buy from, often for hard-to-get things.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pocho

    poh-chohnoun, adjective

    A Mexican-American who speaks little Spanish, or speaks it with English mixed in.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • poppin

    pop-inadjective, verb

    Busy, popular, or exciting.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • post up

    pohst upverb, phrase

    To stand around without doing much.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • protein style

    proh-teen stylphrase

    An In-N-Out burger with lettuce instead of bread.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • pull up

    pul uhpverb, phrase

    Come over; arrive.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • put on blast

    verb, phrase

    To embarrass someone in public or reveal something about them.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • puta

    poo-tahnoun

    A strong insult for a woman, or part of son of a bitch.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • puto

    poo-tohnoun

    A very strong insult, often a homophobic slur, or a word for a coward.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • quake vibes

    kweyk vahybznoun

    A feeling or atmosphere reminiscent of an earthquake, often used to describe a tense or unsettling situation.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • quasar

    kwey-sarnoun

    A visually appealing woman who exudes an exceptional feminine charm.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • qué onda

    keh ohn-dahphrase

    What’s up?

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • qué padre

    keh pah-drehphrase, adjective

    How cool.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • qué pedo

    keh peh-dohphrase

    What’s up, or what’s the problem — a vulgar greeting.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • quirked out

    kwurkt outverb, adjective

    In a peculiar or eccentric state, often used to describe someone who is behaving oddly or unusually.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • rad

    adjective

    Very good.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • ratchet

    rach-itadjective, noun

    Messy, loud, or acting with no class.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • ride or die

    ryd or dyphrase

    A very loyal friend or partner.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • rig

    noun

    A setup of equipment.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ripper

    rip-ernoun

    Excellent surfer or skateboarder.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • rizz

    rɪznoun

    Rizz is a colloquial word, defined as style, charm, or attractiveness; the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • rock

    roknoun, verb

    To wear clothes with style.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • ruca

    roo-kahnoun

    A woman, or someone’s girlfriend.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • ruco

    roo-kohnoun

    Old man or old person.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Sacramento

    sak-ruh-men-tohnoun

    California’s capital city.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Sactown

    sak-townnoun

    A nickname for Sacramento.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • salty

    sawl-teeadjective

    Bitter, resentful, or upset, often due to a perceived slight or injustice.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • SaMo

    sam-ohnoun

    A nickname for Santa Monica.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • san diego sling

    san dee-ey-goh slingnoun

    A refreshing cocktail popular in San Diego.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • San Jo

    san hohnoun

    A local nickname for San Jose.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • San Jose

    san ho-zaynoun

    A large city south of San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Sand Hill

    sand hillnoun

    The venture-capital road in Menlo Park.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • santa ana smooth

    san-tuh an-uh smoothnoun

    A warm and pleasant day.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • Santa Ana winds

    san-tuh an-uh windznoun

    Hot, dry winds in Southern California that make fires worse.

    SlangSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • saucin

    saw-sinverb

    Moving with style and confidence.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • saucy

    saw-seeadjective

    Bold, cheeky, or sassy in behavior or style.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • savage

    sav-ijnoun, adjective

    Harsh, fearless, or brutally honest.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • savage mode

    sav-ij mohdnoun, adjective

    A state of extreme or intense behavior, often characterized by bold or aggressive actions.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • say less

    say lesphrase

    I understand. You do not need to say more.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • schwag

    shwagnoun, adjective

    Low-quality marijuana, or cheap stuff in general.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • scraper

    skray-pernoun

    A flashy Bay Area car with very big wheels.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • scrapin'

    skray-pinverb

    Driving a low, flashy Bay Area car.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • scrilla

    skrill-uhnoun

    Money or cash, often used informally.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • se la rifó

    seh lah ree-fohphrase, verb

    They came through; they did something brave or impressive.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • send it

    send itphrase, verb

    Go for it all the way.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • sesh

    noun

    A hangout, often to smoke or listen to music.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • shook

    adjective, verb

    Scared or startled.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • shred

    verb, noun

    To do a sport or play music very well.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Sí Se Puede

    see seh PWEH-dehphrase

    A phrase meaning “yes, we can”.

    Spanish & ChicanoSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • sick

    sikadjective

    Very good.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • sideshow

    Side-shownoun

    An illegal street gathering where cars spin in circles.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • SigAlert

    sig-uh-lurtnoun

    A traffic warning about a long road blockage.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • simón

    see-mohninterjection

    Yes.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • sippin syrup

    sip-in sir-uhpverb, phrase

    Drinking lean, a mix with cough syrup.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • sippin tea

    sip-in teeverb, phrase

    Gossiping.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • skrrt

    skurtverb

    The sound of tires, or a quick leave.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • slangin

    slang-inverb

    Selling, often something unofficial.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • slangin sand

    slang-in sandverb

    Selling goods on the beach.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • slappin

    slap-inverb

    Music that sounds very good.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • slaps

    noun

    Very good songs.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • slay

    verb

    To excel, dominate, or look extremely fashionable and attractive.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • smell me

    smel meeverb

    Do you understand?

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • SoCal

    soh-kalnoun

    The southern part of California.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • SOMA

    soh-muhnoun

    The San Francisco neighborhood south of Market Street.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • South LA

    south el-aynoun

    The southern part of Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • squad

    skwadnoun

    A close group of friends.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • squad goals

    skwad gohlsnoun

    A friend group you want to be like.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • stealth mode

    stelth mohdnoun, adjective

    When a new company keeps itself secret.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • steez

    noun

    Natural style.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • stoked

    stohktadjective

    Very happy and excited.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • stripped

    striptverb, adjective

    Robbed.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • stunna shades

    stun-na shaydznoun

    Stylish or flashy sunglasses.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • sunset serenade

    suhn-set ser-uh-naydnoun, phrase

    A beautiful sunset view.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • swoop

    verb, noun

    To collect someone by car, or to grab something fast.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Tacos al Pastor

    tah-kohs ahl pas-tornoun

    Tacos made with spit-roasted pork and pineapple.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tech bro

    tek brohnoun

    A critical name for a young tech worker.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tech oasis

    tek oh-a-sisnoun

    Thriving tech hub.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • the 10

    thuh tennoun

    A main east–west freeway in Southern California.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the 101

    thuh wuhn-oh-wuhnnoun

    A major highway from Los Angeles up the California coast.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the 17

    thuh sev-un-teennoun

    The highway over the mountains to Santa Cruz.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 280

    thuh too-ayt-ohnoun

    The scenic freeway between San Francisco and San Jose.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 310

    thuh three-wuhn-ohnoun

    West Los Angeles, named for the area code.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 405

    thuh fawr-oh-fahvnoun

    A main freeway through Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the 405 crawl

    thuh fawr-oh-fahv crawlphrase

    Very slow traffic on the 405 freeway.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 408

    thuh fawr-oh-aytnoun

    San Jose and nearby cities, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 415

    thuh four-one-fivenoun

    San Francisco, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 5

    thuh fahyvnoun

    The long freeway that runs the length of California.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the 510

    thuh five-tennoun

    Oakland and nearby East Bay cities, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 580

    thuh fyv-ayt-ohnoun

    The freeway from the East Bay toward Livermore and the Central Valley.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 60

    thuh siks-teenoun

    A freeway from Los Angeles toward the Inland Empire.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 650

    thuh six-fyv-ohnoun

    The Peninsula, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 680

    thuh six-ayt-ohnoun

    The inland East Bay freeway.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 707

    thuh sev-uhn-oh-sev-uhnnoun

    Area code for Vallejo, the North Bay, and further north.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 818

    thuh eight-wuhn-eightnoun

    The San Fernando Valley, named for the area code.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 831

    thuh ayt-three-wuhnnoun

    Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay area, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 880

    thuh ayt-ayt-ohnoun

    The East Bay freeway along the water, from Oakland toward Fremont.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 916

    thuh nyne-wuhn-sixnoun

    Sacramento, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the 925

    thuh nyne-too-fyvnoun

    Inland East Bay cities, named for the area code.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Bay Bridge

    thuh bay brijnoun

    The bridge between San Francisco and Oakland.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the Castro

    thuh kass-trohnoun

    The Castro neighborhood in San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the City

    thuh sit-eenoun

    San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the claw

    thuh klawnoun

    The mechanical arm on a yard-waste truck.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the delta

    thuh del-tanoun

    A network of rivers and islands east of San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the Farm

    thuh farmnoun

    A nickname for Stanford.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Fillmoe

    thuh fil-mohnoun

    A local name for San Francisco’s Fillmore district.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the flatlands

    thuh flat-landznoun

    The flat parts of Oakland, not the hills.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the function

    thuh funk-shunnoun

    The party or hangout.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the funnies

    thuh fuhn-eesnoun

    Jokes.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the Gate

    thuh gaytnoun

    The Golden Gate Bridge.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Grapevine

    thuh grayp-vinenoun

    The mountain part of Interstate 5 between Los Angeles and the Central Valley.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the grit

    thuh gritnoun

    The authenticity and character of a place.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • the Haight

    thuh haytnoun

    The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood in San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the IE

    thuh eye-eenoun

    The inland cities east of Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the industry

    thuh in-duhs-treenoun

    The movie and TV business.

    Silicon ValleySoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Lake

    thuh layknoun

    Lake Merritt in Oakland.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the LBC

    thuh el-bee-seenoun

    Long Beach, California.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Maze

    thuh mayznoun

    The freeway interchange at the east end of the Bay Bridge.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the Mission

    thuh mish-uhnnoun

    The Mission District in San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the North Bay

    thuh north baynoun

    The counties north of San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the OC

    thuh oh-seenoun

    Orange County, next to Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the Peninsula

    thuh puh-nin-suh-luhnoun

    The cities between San Francisco and San Jose.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the sierra

    thuh see-air-ahnoun

    The big mountain range in eastern California.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the South Bay

    thuh south baynoun

    San Jose and nearby cities.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • the Stick

    thuh stiknoun

    A nickname for the old Candlestick Park in San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the TL

    thuh tee-elnoun

    The Tenderloin neighborhood in San Francisco.

    PlacesNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the Town

    thuh townnoun

    Oakland, California.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the v

    thuh veenoun

    The city of Vallejo.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the Valley

    thuh val-eenoun

    Usually the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • the w-x

    thuh double-yoo eksphrase

    A freeway through central Sacramento.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • the Yay

    thuh yaynoun

    The San Francisco Bay Area.

    PlacesNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • thicc

    thikadjective

    Curvy, especially at the hips.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • thirst trap

    thurs trapnoun

    A post or action designed to attract attention, often of a romantic or sexual nature.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • thirsty

    thur-steeadjective

    Desperate for attention or validation, often used to describe someone seeking social approval.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • thizz

    thizverb

    High on ecstasy; also a hyphy-era look and dance.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • thizz face

    thiz fayssnoun

    A wild facial expression from Bay Area hyphy culture.

    SlangNorCalStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • thrash

    verb, noun

    To skate, surf, or play hard.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • three commas club

    three kah-muhs klubnoun

    Being a billionaire.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Thug Life

    thuhg lyfnoun, phrase

    A lifestyle or mindset characterized by a rebellious and fearless attitude, often associated with overcoming challenges and adversity in a tough environment. It can be a symbol of resilience and strength, particularly in the face of social and economic hardships.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tía

    TEE-ahnoun

    Aunt; also a close family friend.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tight

    tytadjective

    Very good; or very close as friends.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • to the neck

    toh thuh nekphrase

    All the way; completely.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Topanga

    toh-pan-gahnoun

    A canyon community on the west side of Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • trippin

    trip-inverb

    Overreacting or acting strangely.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • trippy

    trip-eeadjective

    Strange in a dreamlike way.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • troca

    troh-kahnoun

    A truck.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tryna

    try-nahphrase

    A slang term used to mean "trying to" or "want to.".

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tryna hop on

    try-nah hop onphrase

    Trying to join in.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tucked off

    tukt offverb, adjective

    Hidden or out of the way.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • turfin'

    tur-finnoun, verb

    An Oakland street dance with sliding, popping, and storytelling.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • turn up

    verb, phrase

    To start partying hard.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • turnt

    terntadjective

    Already partying or very excited.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • turnt up

    ternt upadjective, verb

    Very excited or drunk at a party.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tweaker

    twey-kurnoun

    Someone using meth, or acting erratic.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tweakin

    tweak-inverb

    Acting strangely or being very wrong.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • tycoon

    tai-koonnoun

    Prominent figure in an industry who has become wealthy and powerful through their business empire.

    Silicon ValleySafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • unicorn

    yoo-ni-kornnoun

    A new company worth over a billion dollars.

    Silicon ValleyNorCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • up the hill

    uhp thuh hilphrase

    Up into the mountains.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • vacilar

    vah-see-larverb

    To joke around, flirt, or mess with someone.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • vale verga

    vah-leh vehr-gahphrase

    It doesn’t matter; I don’t care — very strong.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • valley vibe

    val-ee vahybnoun, adjective

    The unique atmosphere of the San Fernando Valley.

    SlangSoCalDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • vámonos

    vah-moh-nohsinterjection, verb

    Let’s go.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • vato

    vah-tohnoun

    A man or guy, used in Chicano speech.

    Spanish & ChicanoStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • vegan vibes

    vee-gan vahybznoun, adjective

    A lifestyle centered around plant-based choices.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • verga

    vehr-gahnoun, interjection

    A swear for penis, also used to say something is extreme or terrible.

    Spanish & ChicanoVulgarDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • vibes

    vahybznoun

    The emotional atmosphere or feeling of a place or situation, often used to describe a positive or enjoyable ambiance.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • vibin

    vahy-binverb

    Relaxing and enjoying the mood.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • vibra bien

    vee-bra byennoun, adjective

    Feeling good vibes (Spanish influence).

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • wassup

    wahs-upphrase

    A casual hello, short for “what’s up?”

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • wavy

    wey-veeadjective

    Cool and relaxed.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • WeHo

    wee-honoun

    West Hollywood, in Los Angeles.

    PlacesSoCalSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • west coast swing

    west kohst swingnoun

    A style of dance originating from California.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • Westside

    west-sahydnoun

    The western part of a city, especially Los Angeles.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • whack

    hwakadjective, noun, verb

    Bad or lame.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • what's really good

    wuts ree-lee goodphrase

    A greeting: what’s up, for real.

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • whats hannenin

    wuts han-ninphrase

    Informal way of asking "What's happening?" or "What's going on?".

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • whip

    wipnoun, verb

    A car.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • wifey

    wahy-feenoun

    Affectionate slang for one's wife or girlfriend.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • woke

    wohkadjective

    Alert to social or political issues.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • Xanadu

    zan-uh-doonoun

    A place of great beauty, luxury, and contentment, often used to describe an idealized or perfect location.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • xpress lane

    eks-press laynnoun

    A quick and efficient way to get things done, often used to describe a straightforward or streamlined process.

    PlacesSafe anywhereDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • xscape

    eks-kaypverb

    A stylish or exciting escape, often used to describe a getaway or leisure activity.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • xtra fly

    ek-struh flaiadjective

    Exceptionally cool, stylish, or impressive, often used to describe someone or something that stands out.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: RegionalUnconfirmed
  • yadadamean

    yah-dah-dah-meenphrase

    A short way of saying “you know what I mean?”

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • yeah no

    yah nohphrase

    A soft way of saying no.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • yee

    interjection

    Yes.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • yee yee

    interjection

    A loud yes, more country than Bay.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • Yeezy

    yee-zeenoun

    Yeezy shoes or anything in that style.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • yew

    yoointerjection

    A shout surfers use to cheer someone on.

    SlangDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • yokin

    yoh-kinverb

    Robbing someone.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • YOLO

    yoh-lohacronym

    An acronym for "You Only Live Once," often used to justify taking risks or trying new things.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • yonque

    yohn-kehnoun

    A junkyard.

    Spanish & ChicanoDifficulty 3 of 3: Deep local
  • you feel me

    yoo feel meephrase

    Do you know what I mean?

    SlangNorCalDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • you know

    yoo nohphrase

    A phrase used while thinking or to check someone understands.

    SlangDifficulty 1 of 3: Widely known
  • zombie mode

    zom-bee moodnoun, adjective

    Being so tired you act automatically.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • zonked

    zongktadjective

    Extremely tired or exhausted.

    SlangDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional
  • zooted

    zoo-tedadjective

    Very high or drunk.

    SlangStrongDifficulty 2 of 3: Regional