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{{Short description|Australian slang words}} | {{Short description|Australian slang words}} | ||
{{More citations needed|date=July 2022}} | {{More citations needed|date=July 2022}} | ||
] | ]''.]] | ||
] | ] | ||
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There is common usage of the diminutive forms of people's names; Hargrave → Hargie; Sharon → Shazza; Clark→ Clarky; Wilkinson → Wilko; John → Jonno; David → Davo; Hogan → Hoges; James → Jimmy → Jim → Jimbo; Benjamin → Ben → Benno; Barry → Bazza. This is usually a display of affection and acceptance rather than belittlement.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} | There is common usage of the diminutive forms of people's names; Hargrave → Hargie; Sharon → Shazza; Clark→ Clarky; Wilkinson → Wilko; John → Jonno; David → Davo; Hogan → Hoges; James → Jimmy → Jim → Jimbo; Benjamin → Ben → Benno; Barry → Bazza. This is usually a display of affection and acceptance rather than belittlement.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} | ||
Organizations and businesses will often embrace the diminutives given to them by Australians, using them in their own advertising and even registering it as a trademark. ] Australia, for example, has registered and uses the name ''Macca's'', rather than the term ''McDonald's'' still seen on its restaurants in Australia.{{ |
Organizations and businesses will often embrace the diminutives given to them by Australians, using them in their own advertising and even registering it as a trademark. ] Australia, for example, has registered and uses the name ''Macca's'', rather than the term ''McDonald's'' still seen on its restaurants in Australia.<ref name="bi">{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Alex |date=28 December 2016 |title=What people call McDonald's in 10 countries around the world |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/mcdonalds-nickname-in-10-countries-2016-12 |website=Business Insider}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=O'Connell |first=Jan |date=29 September 2010 |title=Australian food history timeline - McDonald's becomes Macca's |url=https://australianfoodtimeline.com.au/mcdonalds-becomes-maccas/ |website=Australian Food Timeline}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Paine |first=Hanna |date=19 October 2021 |title=Drive-thru tell-all: Kiwi Macca's worker reveals what they can hear |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/kiwi-maccas-worker-reveals-the-truth-about-drive-thrus-we-can-hear-everything/ILEU5TGMKZX4UCNGKZBGNRXN4A/ |website=NZ Herald}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite journal |last1=Zhang |first1=Zhe |last2=Patrick |first2=Vanessa M. |date=1 April 2018 |title=Call Me Rollie! The Role of Brand Nicknames in Shaping Consumer-Brand Relationships |url=https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/697074 |journal=Journal of the Association for Consumer Research |volume=3 |issue=2 |page=149 |doi=10.1086/697074 |issn=2378-1815 |s2cid=149015566}}</ref> | ||
Some diminutives are rarely used, but widely recognised. For example, ''chalkie'' means ''teacher'', but most Australians simply call a teacher a teacher.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} | Some diminutives are rarely used, but widely recognised. For example, ''chalkie'' means ''teacher'', but most Australians simply call a teacher a teacher.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} | ||
Diminutives are often used for place names, and are only recognised by people in the local area, for example, ''cot'' for ''Cottesloe Beach'' in ], ''Parra'' for ''Parramatta'' in ] and ''Broady'' for ''Broadmeadows'' in ]. |
Diminutives are often used for place names, and are only recognised by people in the local area, for example, ''cot'' for ''Cottesloe Beach'' in ], ''Parra'' for ''Parramatta'' in ] and ''Broady'' for ''Broadmeadows'' in ]. Even entire cities and States, such as ''Shepp'' for the major regional Victorian city of ] or ''Gong'' for the New South Wales coastal city/region of ] or ''Tassie'' for the state of ]. | ||
] and hotel names in particular are often shortened. For example, pubs called the Esplanade Hotel, such as the ] in ], will often be called ''The Espy''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://hotelesplanade.com.au/espy-story/|title=The Espy Story|work=hotelesplanade.com.au}}</ref> | |||
==Purpose and history== | ==Purpose and history== | ||
The purpose of diminutives in Australian English is not well understood despite being a prominent part of Australian culture. Some research suggests that the use of diminutives serves to make interactions more informal, friendly and relaxed.<ref name="gamble"></ref> Linguist Anna Wierzbicka argues that Australians' use of diminutives reflects Australian cultural values of mateship, friendliness, informality, and solidarity, while downplaying formality and avoiding bragging associated with ].<ref name = "Luu"></ref> | The purpose of diminutives in Australian English is not well understood despite being a prominent part of Australian culture. Some research suggests that the use of diminutives serves to make interactions more informal, friendly and relaxed.<ref name="gamble"></ref> Linguist Anna Wierzbicka argues that Australians' use of diminutives reflects Australian cultural values of mateship, friendliness, informality, and solidarity, while downplaying formality and avoiding bragging associated with ].<ref name = "Luu"></ref> | ||
Records of the use of diminutives in Australian English date back to the 1800s. Older Australians tend to prefer diminutives with endings such |
Records of the use of diminutives in Australian English date back to the 1800s. Older Australians tend to prefer diminutives with endings such as '-o' in smoko (a work rest break); however, younger Australians have begun to use endings such as -s as seen in totes (totally).<ref name="gamble"></ref> | ||
==List of diminutives== | ==List of diminutives== | ||
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===A=== | ===A=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Abo''', an ]. From ]. Considered offensive.<ref name=SBS>{{cite web|url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/derogatory-aboriginal-term-forces-change-in-restaurant-s-menu|title=A famous Sydney restaurant has been forced to change its menu, with a breakfast item named after a derogatory term used to refer to Aboriginal children.|accessdate=2020-01-04}}</ref><ref name=PERTHNOW>{{cite web|url=https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/abo-is-not-just-an-abbreviation-of-aboriginal-ng-4ddb57fe9fac0137c39f9d0b9bbb1d9f|title='Abo' is not just an abbreviation of 'Aboriginal'|date=2011-07-11|accessdate=2020-01-04}}</ref> | *'''Abo''' or (more commonly) '''Abbo''', an ]. From ]. Considered offensive.<ref name=SBS>{{cite web|url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/derogatory-aboriginal-term-forces-change-in-restaurant-s-menu|title=A famous Sydney restaurant has been forced to change its menu, with a breakfast item named after a derogatory term used to refer to Aboriginal children.|accessdate=2020-01-04}}</ref><ref name=PERTHNOW>{{cite web|url=https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/abo-is-not-just-an-abbreviation-of-aboriginal-ng-4ddb57fe9fac0137c39f9d0b9bbb1d9f|title='Abo' is not just an abbreviation of 'Aboriginal'|date=2011-07-11|accessdate=2020-01-04}}</ref> | ||
*'''Acca |
*'''Acca Dacca''', rock band ] | ||
*'''Aggro''', aggressive, aggravated or angry | *'''Aggro''', aggressive, aggravated or angry | ||
*'''Albo''', ], 31st prime minister of Australia | |||
*'''Ag pipe''', agricultural pipe (black heavy-duty hose used for irrigation etc.) | |||
*'''Alco''' or (less commonly) ‡'''Alkie''', an alcoholic | *'''Alco''' or (less commonly) ‡'''Alkie''', an alcoholic | ||
*'''Ambo''', an ambulance paramedic | *'''Ambo''', an ambulance paramedic | ||
*'''Apo''' or '''ape-o''', from apeshit, meaning very angry or excited | |||
*'''Arvo''' or (less commonly) '''Arvie''', afternoon<ref name=ag/> | *'''Arvo''' or (less commonly) '''Arvie''', afternoon<ref name=ag/> | ||
*'''Avo''', ] | *‡'''Avo''', ] | ||
*‡'''Aussie''', Australian | *‡'''Aussie''', Australian | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Barbie''', a ], the cooking apparatus itself or the event of cooking food on a barbecue | *'''Barbie''', a ], the cooking apparatus itself or the event of cooking food on a barbecue | ||
*'''Barnesy''', Australian singer ] | |||
*'''Barra''', a ],<ref name=OUP/> or the ] built by Ford Australia | *'''Barra''', a ],<ref name=OUP/> or the ] built by Ford Australia | ||
*‡'''Beauty''', ''' |
*‡'''Beauty''', '''beaut''', or '''bewdy''', beautiful. Used in a much wider sense than the ''beauty'', e.g. fantastic or excellent. | ||
*‡'''Bickie''', ''' |
*‡'''Bickie''', '''biccy''' or '''bikkie''', a biscuit | ||
*'''Bidgie''', the ]<ref name=river>{{cite web| work= Macquarie Dictionary | title=Australian Word Map - Riverina| url=https://www.macquariedictionary.com.au/resources/aus/word/map/search/region/The%20Riverina/}}</ref> | *'''Bidgie''', the ]<ref name=river>{{cite web| work= Macquarie Dictionary | title=Australian Word Map - Riverina| url=https://www.macquariedictionary.com.au/resources/aus/word/map/search/region/The%20Riverina/}}</ref> | ||
*'''Bikie''', a member of a motorcycle club, with a connotation of involvement in criminal activity. This is equivalent to ''biker'' in other forms of English. A motorcycle club is called a ''bikie club''. ]s may also be called ''bikie gangs''.<ref name="anu">{{Cite web|url=https://slll.cass.anu.edu.au/centres/andc|title=Australian National Dictionary Centre|website=ANU School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics}}</ref> | *'''Bikie''', a member of a motorcycle club, with a connotation of involvement in criminal activity. This is equivalent to ''biker'' in other forms of English. A motorcycle club is called a ''bikie club''. ]s may also be called ''bikie gangs''.<ref name="anu">{{Cite web|url=https://slll.cass.anu.edu.au/centres/andc|title=Australian National Dictionary Centre|website=ANU School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics}}</ref> | ||
*'''Blowie''', a ]. A large buzzing fly common in Australia. | *'''Blowie''', a ]. A large buzzing fly common in Australia. | ||
*'''Blowy''', ], short for ].<ref>{{cite web| work= New Idea| title=How to give a good blow job|author=Nikki Black| url=https://www.newidea.com.au/blowjob-tips-techniques-how-to-give-a-good-blow-job}}</ref> | *'''Blowy''', ], short for ].<ref>{{cite web| work= New Idea| title=How to give a good blow job|author=Nikki Black| url=https://www.newidea.com.au/blowjob-tips-techniques-how-to-give-a-good-blow-job}}</ref> | ||
*'''Bluey''', a ] | |||
⚫ | *‡'''Blotto''', ] | ||
*‡'''Bolshie''', from Bolshevik, meaning of a person or attitude, deliberately combative or uncooperative. | *‡'''Bolshie''', from Bolshevik, meaning of a person or attitude, deliberately combative or uncooperative. | ||
*‡'''Bookie''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/bookie|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225062438/https://www.lexico.com/definition/bookie|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 25, 2021|title=BOOKIE | Definition of BOOKIE by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of BOOKIE|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | *‡'''Bookie''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/bookie|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225062438/https://www.lexico.com/definition/bookie|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 25, 2021|title=BOOKIE | Definition of BOOKIE by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of BOOKIE|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | ||
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*'''Bowlo''', a lawn bowls clubhouse | *'''Bowlo''', a lawn bowls clubhouse | ||
*‡'''Brekkie''' or '''Brekky''', ]<ref name=ag/> | *‡'''Brekkie''' or '''Brekky''', ]<ref name=ag/> | ||
*'''Brissy''' (alternate spellings '''Brizzy''', '''Brissie''' or '''Brizzie'''), ], the capital of ] | *'''Brissy''' (alternate spellings '''Brizzy''', '''Brissie''' or '''Brizzie'''), ], the capital of ]. | ||
*‡'''Brickie''', a bricklayer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/brickie|title=Brickie definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary|website=www.collinsdictionary.com}}</ref> | *‡'''Brickie''', a bricklayer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/brickie|title=Brickie definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary|website=www.collinsdictionary.com}}</ref> | ||
*'''Broadie''' or '''Broady''', ] in Victoria, ] in Queensland | *'''Broadie''' or '''Broady''', ] in Victoria, ] in Queensland | ||
*'''Brushie''', a ] | *'''Brushie''', a ] | ||
*'''Bub''', baby, as in "mum and bub"<ref name=OUP/> | *‡'''Bub''', baby, as in "mum and bub"<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*‡'''Budgie''', a ], a ]. Male swimming briefs are called ''budgie smugglers''.<ref name="anu"/> | *‡'''Budgie''', a ], a ]. Male swimming briefs are called ''budgie smugglers''.<ref name="anu"/> | ||
*'''Bundy''', ], ] | *'''Bundy''', the city of ], or the ] beverage | ||
*'''Bunners''', the ] chain of hardware stores, or the city of ] | |||
*'''Bushie''', one who is competent to live away from civilization (from bushman)<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Bushie''', a ], one who is competent to live away from civilization (from bushman)<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Busso''', the town of ], ] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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*'''Cab Sav''', ] wine<ref name=smh/> | *'''Cab Sav''', ] wine<ref name=smh/> | ||
*‡'''Cardie''', a ] | *‡'''Cardie''', a ] | ||
*'''Carby''' or '''carbie''', a ] | |||
*'''Cauli''' (pron. "collie"), ] | *'''Cauli''' (pron. "collie"), ] | ||
*'''Ceno''' or '''Cenno''', the ] office. Also used to refer to a fortnightly payment (pension or otherwise) from the Centrelink office. | *'''Ceno''' or '''Cenno''', the ] office. Also used to refer to a fortnightly payment (pension or otherwise) from the Centrelink office. | ||
*'''Chalkie''', a teacher.<ref name=OUP/> From ] used on ]s. Once also applied to employees of the ] who wrote stock prices on chalk boards prior to computerisation. | *'''Chalkie''', a teacher.<ref name=OUP/> From ] used on ]s. Once also applied to employees of the ] who wrote stock prices on chalk boards prior to computerisation. | ||
*'''Champers''', ] | *‡'''Champers''', ] | ||
*'''Chardy''', chardonnay wine | *'''Chardy''', chardonnay wine | ||
*'''Chewy''', ] | *'''Chewy''', ] | ||
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*'''Chocko''' (from chocolate soldier), a member of the ]<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Chocko''' (from chocolate soldier), a member of the ]<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Chrissie''' or '''Chrissy''', ] | *'''Chrissie''' or '''Chrissy''', ] | ||
*'''Chuck a u-ey''', do a u-turn (when driving a vehicle) | |||
*‡'''Ciggie''', a ] | *‡'''Ciggie''', a ] | ||
*'''Cockie''', a ]. Commonly a ]. By extension, a farmer, e.g. "cow cockie" for dairy farmer. Also slang for cockroach | *'''Cockie''', a ]. Commonly a ]. By extension, a farmer, e.g. "cow cockie" for dairy farmer. Also slang for cockroach | ||
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{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Dandy''', ] | *'''Dandy''', ] | ||
*'''Datto''', a ] automobile | |||
*‡'''Deli''', a delicatessen | *‡'''Deli''', a delicatessen | ||
*'''Defo''', definitely | |||
*'''Dero''' or '''derro''', a ], a poor (often homeless) person, or location or building; also used as an adjective<ref name=smh/> | *'''Dero''' or '''derro''', a ], a poor (often homeless) person, or location or building; also used as an adjective<ref name=smh/> | ||
*'''Devo''', devastated, very upset over some event | *'''Devo''', devastated, very upset over some event | ||
*'''Deso''', a ] | *'''Deso''', a ] | ||
*'''Dexxy''', ] | |||
*'''Dizzie''', a car ], or an electrical ] | |||
*'''Doco''', a documentary<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/doco|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301181724/https://www.lexico.com/definition/doco|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 1, 2021|title=DOCO | Definition of DOCO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of DOCO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | *'''Doco''', a documentary<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/doco|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301181724/https://www.lexico.com/definition/doco|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 1, 2021|title=DOCO | Definition of DOCO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of DOCO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | ||
*'''Dodge''', dodgy or suspicious | *'''Dodge''', dodgy or suspicious | ||
*'''Doughie''', the ] driving manoeuvre | *'''Doughie''', the ] driving manoeuvre | ||
*‡'''Druggie''', illicit drug user | *‡'''Druggie''', illicit drug user | ||
*'''Dunny''', an ], derived from dunnekin | |||
*'''Durry''', '''Duzz''' or '''Duzza''', a cigarette, from the ] brand | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
===E=== | ===E=== | ||
*'''Eckies''', ecstasy. From the street name for ]. | *‡'''Eckies''', ecstasy. From the street name for ]. | ||
*'''Ekka''', exhibition. Used to describe the Brisbane Royal Show | *'''Ekka''', exhibition. Used to describe the Brisbane Royal Show | ||
*'''Erko''', the Sydney suburb of ] | *'''Erko''', the Sydney suburb of ] | ||
*'''Espy''', establishments named "Esplanade", such as the ] or the ] | |||
*''']''', a ]. From the Eskimo brand, which was later shortened to esky.<ref name="School">{{Cite web|title=Australian National Dictionary Centre|url=https://slll.cass.anu.edu.au/centres/andc|last1=School|first1=Head of |
*''']''', a ]. From the Eskimo brand, which was later shortened to esky.<ref name="School">{{Cite web|title=Australian National Dictionary Centre|url=https://slll.cass.anu.edu.au/centres/andc|last1=School|first1=Head of|website=ANU School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics|language=en|access-date=2020-05-07}}</ref> | ||
*'''Exy''', expensive | *'''Exy''', expensive | ||
] | ] | ||
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===F=== | ===F=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Falsies''', a heavily-padded brassiere | *'''Falsies''', a heavily-padded brassiere, or ] (false teeth) | ||
*'''Farnsy''', Australian singer ] | |||
*'''Festy''', festering, denoting something disgusting | |||
*'''Firie''', a firefighter<ref name=smh/> | *'''Firie''', a firefighter<ref name=smh/> | ||
*'''Fisho''', a ] or woman | |||
*'''Flannie''', flannelette shirt | *'''Flannie''' or '''flanno''', a ] shirt | ||
*'''Flatties''', flat-soled (women's) shoes | *'''Flatties''', flat-soled (women's) shoes | ||
*'''Flatty''', a flat tyre, or a ] | *'''Flatty''', a ], a slotted or "flat-head" ], or a ] | ||
*‡'''Footy''', football,<ref name=ag/> which may refer to the sport of football, the ball itself, or a specific game. Generally, footy refers to ] in Southern and Western States or ] in ] and ]. ] is either called ''football'' or ''soccer'', but never ''footy''. Rugby Union is called ''rugby'', never ''footy''. The ] runs two longstanding variety television shows called ''The Footy Show''; one for ], and the other for ]. | *‡'''Footy''', football,<ref name=ag/> which may refer to the sport of football, the ball itself, or a specific game. Generally, footy refers to ] in Southern and Western States or ] in ] and ]. ] is either called ''football'' or ''soccer'', but never ''footy''. Rugby Union is called ''rugby'', never ''footy''. The ] runs two longstanding variety television shows called ''The Footy Show''; one for ], and the other for ]. | ||
*'''Franga''', ] |
*'''Franga''', the suburb of ], or slang for a ] | ||
*'''Freo''', ] |
*'''Freo''', the city of ] in Western Australia | ||
*'''Freshie''', a ],<ref name=OUP/> |
*'''Freshie''', a ],<ref name=OUP/> or the ] in Sydney | ||
*'''Forkie''', a forklift operator | *'''Forkie''', a ] operator | ||
*'''Fourby''', a ] vehicle, derived from 4x4 ("four by four") | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
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===G=== | ===G=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
⚫ | *'''G Town''', nickname for ], ] | ||
*'''The G''', ]. An abbreviated version of the already short initialism used for the M.C.G. | |||
*'''The G''', the MCG, or ] | |||
*'''G-town''' (or '''G-troit''', which is a play on ]), referring to the Victorian city of ] | |||
*''']''', The Brisbane Cricket Ground |
*''']''', The Brisbane Cricket Ground, located in the suburb of ]. | ||
*'''Garbo''', a garbage collector<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/garbo|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226000905/https://www.lexico.com/definition/garbo|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 26, 2021|title=GARBO | Definition of GARBO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of GARBO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | *'''Garbo''', a garbage collector<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/garbo|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226000905/https://www.lexico.com/definition/garbo|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 26, 2021|title=GARBO | Definition of GARBO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of GARBO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | ||
*'''Gero''', ] |
*'''Gero''', ], a town in ] | ||
*'''Geo''', |
*'''Geo''', a ] | ||
*'''Gladdy''', the ] family of plants.<ref name=OUP/> The term was popularised by ] in character as ] | *'''Gladdy''', the ] family of plants.<ref name=OUP/> The term was popularised by ] in character as ] | ||
*'''Glenny''', |
*'''Glenny''', ], a suburb of ] | ||
*'''The Gong''', ], New South Wales | *'''The Gong''', ], ] | ||
*'''Greenie''', an ], from the ];<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/greenie|title=Definition of greenie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> usually pejoratively | *'''Greenie''', an ], from the ];<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/greenie|title=Definition of greenie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> usually pejoratively | ||
*'''Greensie''', ], a suburb of Melbourne | |||
*'''Goss''', rumours, latest stories amongst friends ] | |||
*'''Gossie''', |
*'''Gossie''', ] | ||
*'''Gunners''', the band ] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
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===H=== | ===H=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*''' |
*'''Handy''', a ] | ||
*'''Heckers''', hectic | |||
*‡'''Homo''', homosexual (offensive) | |||
*'''Hospo''', hospitality | |||
*'''Housos''', (pron. –z–) residents of ] | *'''Housos''', (pron. –z–) residents of ] | ||
*'''Hundo''', a ] | |||
*'''Hypo''', hyperactive | *'''Hypo''', hyperactive | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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===I=== | ===I=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Indro''', ], a suburb in Brisbane |
*'''Indo''', ] | ||
*'''Indro''', ], a suburb in Brisbane | |||
*'''Iso''', isolation, gained popularity during the ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-16|title=Iso named 2020's word of the year by Australian National Dictionary Centre|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/nov/17/iso-named-2020s-word-of-the-year-by-australian-national-dictionary-centre|access-date=2021-12-02|website=the Guardian|language=en}}</ref> Isopropyl alcohol | *'''Iso''', isolation, gained popularity during the ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-16|title=Iso named 2020's word of the year by Australian National Dictionary Centre|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/nov/17/iso-named-2020s-word-of-the-year-by-australian-national-dictionary-centre|access-date=2021-12-02|website=the Guardian|language=en}}</ref> Isopropyl alcohol | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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===K=== | ===K=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Kanga''', a kangaroo<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Kanga''', a ]<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Kero''', ]<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Kero''', ]<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Kindy''', '''Kinda''' or '''Kinder''', kindergarten | *'''Kindy''', '''Kinda''' or '''Kinder''', kindergarten | ||
*'''Kinger''' or '''kingie''', a ] automobile, or the ] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
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===L=== | ===L=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Landy''', a ] or ] automobile | |||
*'''Lebo''', or '''Leb''', for Middle Eastern immigrant, specifically from ], sometimes pejorative. | *'''Lebo''', or '''Leb''', for Middle Eastern immigrant, specifically from ], sometimes pejorative. | ||
*'''Lecky''', electrical, as in "lecky tape" (])<ref>{{cite web|url=https://leckys.com.au/about/|title=Lecky’s Electrical & Data}}</ref> | |||
*‡'''Leftie''', a person with left wing views; a left-handed person | *‡'''Leftie''', a person with left wing views; a left-handed person | ||
*''' |
*'''Lesbo''' or '''lezzo''', a lesbian (offensive) | ||
*'''Liftie''', a ski lift operator | *'''Liftie''', a ski lift operator | ||
*‡''']''', a person from the UK, prominently English (Not offensive but unfriendly) | |||
*‡'''Lippy''', a lipstick | *‡'''Lippy''', a lipstick | ||
*'''Lappy''', a laptop computer | *‡'''Lappy''', a laptop computer | ||
*'''Locko''', covid lockdown or isolation | |||
*'''Lonny''', ], ] | |||
*'''Lotto''', the ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.legislation.wa.gov.au/legislation/prod/filestore.nsf/FileURL/mrdoc_42707.pdf/$FILE/Lotteries%20Commission%20Act%201990%20-%20%5B03-f0-00%5D.pdf?OpenElement|title=Lotteries Commission Act 1990|work=legislation.wa.gov.au/}}</ref> | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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===N=== | ===N=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | |||
*'''Nasho''', a conscript in the army. Derived from national service. Used especially around the Vietnam war. In the Army it was used in a derogatory sense.<ref name="School"/> The term has fallen out of use as conscription in Australia ended in the 1970s. Common use is now Nationality | *'''Nasho''', a conscript in the army. Derived from national service. Used especially around the Vietnam war. In the Army it was used in a derogatory sense.<ref name="School"/> The term has fallen out of use as conscription in Australia ended in the 1970s. Common use is now Nationality | ||
*'''Newie or Newy''', ] | *'''Newie or Newy''', ] | ||
*'''Nibblies''', small portions of food nibbled on at parties<ref>{{cite news| work= ] | title=No ‘nibblies’: three rules for surviving Australia’s party-snack culture|author=Happy Feraren| url=https://www.theguardian.com/food/2023/oct/28/no-nibblies-three-rules-for-surviving-australias-party-snack-culture}}</ref> | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
] | |||
=== O === | |||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | |||
*'''Op shop''', ] | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
] | ] | ||
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*'''Parra''', ] | *'''Parra''', ] | ||
*'''Parma''', '''Parmi''' or '''Parmy''', ], a ] staple | *'''Parma''', '''Parmi''' or '''Parmy''', ], a ] staple | ||
*'''Paro or Para''', Paranoid. Also, extremely drunk (from paralytic). | *'''Paro''' or ‡'''Para''', Paranoid. Also, extremely drunk (from paralytic). | ||
*'''Pav''', ]<ref name="anu"/> | *'''Pav''', ]<ref name="anu"/> | ||
*'''Penno''', ] | |||
*'''Physio''', ] or ] | *'''Physio''', ] or ] | ||
*'''Pinky''', a young, hairless ] that still resides in its marsupial mother's pouch, newborn ] and ] | *'''Pinky''', a young, hairless ] that still resides in its marsupial mother's pouch, newborn ] and ] | ||
Line 247: | Line 288: | ||
*'''Pushie''', pushbike, a bicycle | *'''Pushie''', pushbike, a bicycle | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
===Q=== | ===Q=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Queanie''' or '''Queany''', the city of ] | |||
*'''Quazza''', quarantine | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] | ||
Line 257: | Line 299: | ||
===R=== | ===R=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Ranga''', from ], slang for people with ] | |||
*'''"R"ie''', also '''rissole''', ] | *'''"R"ie''', also '''rissole''', ] | ||
*‡'''Ref''', referee (noun), or to referee a game (verb) | |||
*'''Reffo''', a pejorative term for a refugee | *'''Reffo''', a pejorative term for a refugee | ||
*'''Rego''', a vehicle registration | *'''Rego''', a vehicle registration | ||
*'''Reno''', a house renovation | |||
*'''Reso''', a reservation | *'''Reso''', a reservation | ||
*'''Ressie''' or ''' |
*'''Ressie''' or '''Ressa''', the suburb of ] | ||
*'''Rellie''' or ''' |
*'''Rellie''' or '''relo''', a relative | ||
⚫ | *‡''' |
||
*'''Reo''', reinforcing steel, ]<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Reo''', reinforcing steel, ]<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Rocko''', ] | *'''Rocko''', the city of ] | ||
*'''Rocky''', ] | *'''Rocky''', the city of ] | ||
*'''Rollie''' ( |
*‡'''Rollie''' (pron. ROHL-ee), a ] | ||
*'''Roo''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/roo|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224221101/https://www.lexico.com/definition/roo|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 24, 2021|title=ROO | Definition of ROO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of ROO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | *'''Roo''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/roo|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224221101/https://www.lexico.com/definition/roo|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 24, 2021|title=ROO | Definition of ROO by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of ROO|website=Lexico Dictionaries | English}}</ref> | ||
*'''Roofie''', a ]; also the ]‡ | |||
*‡'''Rottie''', a ] dog | |||
*'''Rotto''', ] | *'''Rotto''', ] | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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===S=== | ===S=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''Saltie''', a ], as opposed to a '''freshie''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/saltie|title=Saltie definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary|website=www.collinsdictionary.com}}</ref> | *'''Saltie''', a ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/saltie|title=Saltie definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary|website=www.collinsdictionary.com}}</ref> | ||
*'''Salvos''', ]. The term is used officially by the ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/|title=The Salvation Army Australia | Hope where it's needed most|first=The Salvation Army|last=Australia|website=www.salvationarmy.org.au}}</ref> | *'''Salvos''', ]. The term is used officially by the ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/|title=The Salvation Army Australia | Hope where it's needed most|first=The Salvation Army|last=Australia|website=www.salvationarmy.org.au}}</ref> | ||
*'''Sanga''' or '''Sanger''', a sandwich. Originally sango, but evolved to its current |
*'''Sanga''' or '''Sanger''', a sandwich. Originally sango, but evolved to its current form by the 1960s.<ref name="anu"/><ref>{{cite web| work= Macquarie Dictionary | title=Australian Word Map| url=https://www.macquariedictionary.com.au/resources/aus/word/map/search/word/sanga/The%20Riverina/}}</ref> | ||
*'''Sanny''', hand sanitiser | *'''Sanny''', hand sanitiser | ||
*'''Sav''', ], especially '''battered sav''', a showtime treat | *'''Sav''', ], especially '''battered sav''', a showtime treat | ||
*'''Savvy B''', Sauvignon Blanc wine | *'''Savvy B''', Sauvignon Blanc wine | ||
*'''Scratchie''', a ] ticket<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ozlotteries.com/blog/scratchies-and-pokies-vs-lottery-odds|title=What are scratchies and how do scratchies work?|work=ozlotteries.com/}}</ref> | |||
*'''Scarn on''', A shortened, colloquial term for 'what's going on' (a term used when greeting others) | |||
*''' |
*'''ScoMo''', ], 30th prime minister of Australia | ||
*'''Scrooge''' or '''screwge''', a ] | |||
*''']''', a self-shot photograph. This term originated in Australia and has been adopted worldwide via the internet. It became The ]'s 2013 ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2014/08/12/4065062.htm|title=A brief history of the selfie|work=abc.net.au|date=12 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/19/selfie-australian-slang-term-named-international-word-of-the-year|title=Selfie: Australian slang term named international word of the year|work=The Guardian|date=19 November 2013}}</ref> | *''']''', a self-shot photograph. This term originated in Australia and has been adopted worldwide via the internet. It became The ]'s 2013 ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2014/08/12/4065062.htm|title=A brief history of the selfie|work=abc.net.au|date=12 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/19/selfie-australian-slang-term-named-international-word-of-the-year|title=Selfie: Australian slang term named international word of the year|work=The Guardian|date=19 November 2013}}</ref> | ||
*‡'''Semi''', a ] truck, also a ] | *‡'''Semi''', a ] truck, also a ] | ||
*‡'''Seppo''', a pejorative term for an American. Seppo is a diminutive of septic tank which is in turn ] for yank, which is a diminutive of ]. | *‡'''Seppo''', a pejorative term for an American. Seppo is a diminutive of septic tank which is in turn ] for yank, which is a diminutive of ]. | ||
*'''Servo''', a ], service station<ref name=ag/> | *'''Servo''', a ], service station<ref name=ag/> | ||
*'''Sheppo''', the Victorian regional city of ]. | |||
*'''Shoey''', the act of ], typically alcoholic beverages | |||
*‡'''Shottie''', a shotgun; also the act of riding in the front passenger seat of a vehicle, sometimes announced as "I call shotgun/shottie", to indicate that a person has claimed this seat. Can also refer to the carb hole in a bong. | *‡'''Shottie''', a shotgun; also the act of riding in the front passenger seat of a vehicle, sometimes announced as "I call shotgun/shottie", to indicate that a person has claimed this seat. Can also refer to the carb hole in a bong. | ||
*‡'''Sickie''', a sick day, often with a connotation of there being insufficient medical reason for missing work<ref name="anu"/> | *‡'''Sickie''', a sick day, often with a connotation of there being insufficient medical reason for missing work<ref name="anu"/> | ||
*'''Sicko''', a psychology disturbed person, or someone who may be fanatically into horror movies | |||
*''']''', a smoking break while at work. Since smoking has been banned in many workplaces, a ''smoko'' has come to mean any rest break at work.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024113026/http://tobacco.health.usyd.edu.au/site/supersite/resources/pdfs/TLbefore1950s.pdf |date=2009-10-24}}, ]</ref><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328200951/http://www.wageline.qld.gov.au/glossary/index.html#smoko |date=2010-03-28 }}, Department of Employment and Industrial Relations (Queensland)</ref> | *''']''', a smoking break while at work. Since smoking has been banned in many workplaces, a ''smoko'' has come to mean any rest break at work.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024113026/http://tobacco.health.usyd.edu.au/site/supersite/resources/pdfs/TLbefore1950s.pdf |date=2009-10-24}}, ]</ref><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328200951/http://www.wageline.qld.gov.au/glossary/index.html#smoko |date=2010-03-28 }}, Department of Employment and Industrial Relations (Queensland)</ref> | ||
*'''Snag''', ]<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Snag''', ]<ref name=OUP/> | ||
⚫ | *‡'''Sparkie''' or '''Sparky''', an electrician. From sparking, ]ing | ||
*‡'''Spag bol''', ] | |||
⚫ | *‡'''Sparkie''', an electrician. From sparking, ]ing | ||
*'''Spenny''', expensive | *'''Spenny''', expensive | ||
*'''Stezza''', a stereo playback system such as with ] or ] | |||
*'''Straya''', short for Australia | *'''Straya''', short for Australia | ||
*'''Stubby''' or '''Stubbie''', a small, wide bottle of beer<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Stubby''' or '''Stubbie''', a small, wide bottle of beer<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Subi''' or '''Subie''', a ] car<ref name=ag/> |
*'''Subbie''', a subcontractor | ||
*'''Subi''' or '''Subie''', a ] car,<ref name=ag/> or the suburb of ] | |||
*‡'''Sunnies''', sunglasses<ref name=ag/> | *‡'''Sunnies''', sunglasses<ref name=ag/> | ||
*'''Super''', ]. In Australia, all employers are obliged to set aside a percentage of a worker's wages in a superannuation fund. | |||
*'''Surfie''', a surfer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/surfie|title=Definition of surfie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | *'''Surfie''', a surfer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/surfie|title=Definition of surfie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | ||
*''']''', from sustenance payments, a form of welfare during the ] in the form of food coupons. The word has fallen out of use. | *''']''', from sustenance payments, a form of welfare during the ] in the form of food coupons. The word has fallen out of use. | ||
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===T=== | ===T=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*''' |
*'''Tanty''', a ] | ||
*'''Tassie''', '''Tazzy''' or '''Taz''', ] or Tasmanian | |||
*'''Techo''', technician, technical (adjective) | *'''Techo''', technician, technical (adjective) | ||
*‡'''Tellie''' or ''' |
*‡'''Tellie''' or '''telly''', a television | ||
*‡'''Tinnie''', historically referred to a ] (usually a beer can) but today generally refers to an ] ]. From tin can | *‡'''Tinnie''', historically referred to a ] (usually a beer can) but today generally refers to an ] ]. From tin can | ||
*'''Toonie''', ], a historic suburb in ] |
*'''Tonguey''', to ] | ||
*'''Toonie''', ], a historic suburb in ] | |||
*'''Towie''', ] or a tow truck driver | *'''Towie''', ] or a tow truck driver | ||
*'''Townie''', townsperson |
*'''Townie''', a townsperson; in contrast to '''bushie''', a bushman | ||
*‡'''Trackies''', track pants or a tracksuit. Track pants are also known as trackie dacks, dacks being a colloquial |
*‡'''Trackies''', track pants or a tracksuit. Track pants are also known as "trackie dacks", with "dacks" being a colloquial term for trousers.<ref name="anu"/> | ||
*'''Tradie''', a tradesperson | *'''Tradie''', a tradesperson | ||
*'''Traino''', |
*'''Traino''', a train station | ||
*'''Trannie''' or ''' |
*'''Trannie''' or '''tranny''', a car's ], or an electrical ], or an offensive word for a transgender person; also outdated slang for a ] | ||
*'''Treadlie''' or '''treadly''', a ] | |||
*'''Troppo''', from "tropics" as in "gone troppo", unhinged mentally (orig. army slang)<ref name=OUP>{{cite book|title=The Australian National Dictionary|publisher=Oxford University Press|year=1988}}</ref> | *'''Troppo''', from "tropics" as in "gone troppo", unhinged mentally (orig. army slang)<ref name=OUP>{{cite book|title=The Australian National Dictionary|publisher=Oxford University Press|year=1988}}</ref> | ||
*'''Truckie''', a truck driver<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/truckie|title=Definition of truckie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | *'''Truckie''', a truck driver<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/truckie|title=Definition of truckie | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | ||
*‡'''Turps''', alcohol, from ], a toxic solvent historically used to adulterate ]. Usually used to say a person is "on the turps" (drinking heavily).<ref name="anu"/> | *‡'''Turps''', alcohol, from ], a toxic solvent historically used to adulterate ]. Usually used to say a person is "on the turps" (drinking heavily).<ref name="anu"/> | ||
*‡'''TV''', a television, a common word outside of Australian English | |||
*‡'''Typo''', a ] | *‡'''Typo''', a ] | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
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===U=== | ===U=== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | ||
*'''{{IPA|U-ey}}''' ,'''U'ie''' ( |
*'''{{IPA|U-ey}}''' ,'''U'ie''' (you-eee), as in "Chuck a u-ey" — to perform a ] (when driving a vehicle)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theculturetrip.com/pacific/australia/articles/the-australian-slang-terms-you-need-to-know/|title=15 Australian Slang Words to Help You Speak Like a Local|first=Tom|last=Smith|website=Culture Trip|date=19 July 2018}}</ref> | ||
*''' |
*'''Umpie''' or '''Ump''', an umpire at a sporting game | ||
*‡'''Undies''', underwear. This word is used widely outside Australian English.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/undies|title=Definition of undies | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | *‡'''Undies''', underwear. This word is used widely outside Australian English.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/undies|title=Definition of undies | Dictionary.com|website=www.dictionary.com}}</ref> | ||
*‡'''Uni''', university | *‡'''Uni''', university | ||
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*‡'''Veggie''' or '''vegie''', vegetables, generally not a vegetarian | *‡'''Veggie''' or '''vegie''', vegetables, generally not a vegetarian | ||
*'''Veggo''', a ], never a vegetable | *'''Veggo''', a ], never a vegetable | ||
⚫ | *''' |
||
*'''Vinnies''', ]. The term is used officially by the society in Australia. Commonly runs "op shops" (]) | *'''Vinnies''', ]. The term is used officially by the society in Australia. Commonly runs "op shops" (]) | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
Line 354: | Line 403: | ||
*'''Wharfie''', a docks worker<ref name=OUP/> | *'''Wharfie''', a docks worker<ref name=OUP/> | ||
*'''Wheelie''', several car and bike manoeuvres — ] or ]; meaning found from context | *'''Wheelie''', several car and bike manoeuvres — ] or ]; meaning found from context | ||
*'''Winnies''', Winfield ( |
*'''Winnie''' or '''Winnies''', the ] brand of cigarettes, esp. "Winnie Blue", a low-tar variety | ||
*‡'''Wino''', an ] who subsists on cheap, probably ], ] | *‡'''Wino''', an ] who subsists on cheap, probably ], ] | ||
*'''Wobbly''', a ] | |||
*'''Wombie''' or '''womby''', a ], also slang for ] | |||
*‡'''Woolies''', ] supermarkets<ref name=ag/> | *‡'''Woolies''', ] supermarkets<ref name=ag/> | ||
*'''Woollies''', especially '''Winter woollies''', woollen garments | *'''Woollies''', especially '''Winter woollies''', woollen garments | ||
*'''Wristy''' or '''wristie''', a ] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
] | ] |
Latest revision as of 20:55, 22 December 2024
Australian slang wordsThis article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Find sources: "Diminutives in Australian English" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (July 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) |
Diminutive forms of words are commonly used in everyday Australian English. While many dialects of English make use of diminutives and hypocorisms, Australian English uses them more extensively than any other. Diminutives may be seen as slang, but many are used widely across the whole of society. Some forms have also spread outside Australia to other English-speaking countries. There are over 5,000 identified diminutives in use in Australian English.
Usage
In other English dialects, diminutives usually imply smallness or have a childish connotation such as in 'birdie', 'doggy', or 'kitty'. While diminutives can be used in this way in Australian English, they are also used widely in a non-childish manner, with over 4,300 being recorded. For example, bikie (a motorcycle, or motorbike club member), does not imply a bicycle in a small or childish sense as it may in other English dialects.
In Australian English, diminutives are usually formed by taking the first part of a word, and adding an ending such as a, o, ie, or y. Sometimes, no ending is added. While the form of a diminutive is arbitrary, their use follows strict rules. Diminutives are not used creatively. For example, an ambulance paramedic is called an ambo, never ambie, or amba. Some diminutives are almost always used in preference to the original form, while others are rarely used or restricted to certain groups or locations. The use of diminutives also evolves over time, with new words coming into use and others falling out of favour. Some diminutives have become so common that the original form has fallen out of common usage. For example, Salvos has begun to replace the name Salvation Army to such an extent that some Australians do not recognise the Salvation Army name. Deli has become so universal that delicatessen is rarely used. Some words, such as ute, from utility vehicle, a car with a tray back, have become universal.
There is common usage of the diminutive forms of people's names; Hargrave → Hargie; Sharon → Shazza; Clark→ Clarky; Wilkinson → Wilko; John → Jonno; David → Davo; Hogan → Hoges; James → Jimmy → Jim → Jimbo; Benjamin → Ben → Benno; Barry → Bazza. This is usually a display of affection and acceptance rather than belittlement.
Organizations and businesses will often embrace the diminutives given to them by Australians, using them in their own advertising and even registering it as a trademark. McDonald's Australia, for example, has registered and uses the name Macca's, rather than the term McDonald's still seen on its restaurants in Australia.
Some diminutives are rarely used, but widely recognised. For example, chalkie means teacher, but most Australians simply call a teacher a teacher.
Diminutives are often used for place names, and are only recognised by people in the local area, for example, cot for Cottesloe Beach in Perth, Parra for Parramatta in Sydney and Broady for Broadmeadows in Melbourne. Even entire cities and States, such as Shepp for the major regional Victorian city of Shepparton or Gong for the New South Wales coastal city/region of Wollongong or Tassie for the state of Tasmania.
Pub and hotel names in particular are often shortened. For example, pubs called the Esplanade Hotel, such as the Esplanade Hotel in St. Kilda, will often be called The Espy.
Purpose and history
The purpose of diminutives in Australian English is not well understood despite being a prominent part of Australian culture. Some research suggests that the use of diminutives serves to make interactions more informal, friendly and relaxed. Linguist Anna Wierzbicka argues that Australians' use of diminutives reflects Australian cultural values of mateship, friendliness, informality, and solidarity, while downplaying formality and avoiding bragging associated with tall poppy syndrome.
Records of the use of diminutives in Australian English date back to the 1800s. Older Australians tend to prefer diminutives with endings such as '-o' in smoko (a work rest break); however, younger Australians have begun to use endings such as -s as seen in totes (totally).
List of diminutives
This list contains noteworthy and commonly understood diminutives from Australian English.
Those marked ‡ are also common in other English dialects.
A
- Abo or (more commonly) Abbo, an indigenous Australian. From Aboriginal. Considered offensive.
- Acca Dacca, rock band AC/DC
- Aggro, aggressive, aggravated or angry
- Albo, Anthony Albanese, 31st prime minister of Australia
- Alco or (less commonly) ‡Alkie, an alcoholic
- Ambo, an ambulance paramedic
- Apo or ape-o, from apeshit, meaning very angry or excited
- Arvo or (less commonly) Arvie, afternoon
- ‡Avo, avocado
- ‡Aussie, Australian
B
- Barbie, a barbecue, the cooking apparatus itself or the event of cooking food on a barbecue
- Barnesy, Australian singer Jimmy Barnes
- Barra, a barramundi, or the Ford Barra engine built by Ford Australia
- ‡Beauty, beaut, or bewdy, beautiful. Used in a much wider sense than the beauty, e.g. fantastic or excellent.
- ‡Bickie, biccy or bikkie, a biscuit
- Bidgie, the Murrumbidgee River
- Bikie, a member of a motorcycle club, with a connotation of involvement in criminal activity. This is equivalent to biker in other forms of English. A motorcycle club is called a bikie club. Outlaw motorcycle clubs may also be called bikie gangs.
- Blowie, a blowfly. A large buzzing fly common in Australia.
- Blowy, fellatio, short for blow job.
- Bluey, a blue heeler
- ‡Blotto, drunk
- ‡Bolshie, from Bolshevik, meaning of a person or attitude, deliberately combative or uncooperative.
- ‡Bookie, a bookmaker
- Boardies, boardshorts, worn by surfers
- Bottle-oh, (historical) a mobile bottle collector (for return and re-use)
- Bottle-o, a bottle shop or alcohol store
- Bowlo, a lawn bowls clubhouse
- ‡Brekkie or Brekky, breakfast
- Brissy (alternate spellings Brizzy, Brissie or Brizzie), Brisbane, the capital of Queensland.
- ‡Brickie, a bricklayer
- Broadie or Broady, Broadmeadows in Victoria, Broadbeach in Queensland
- Brushie, a brushtail possum
- ‡Bub, baby, as in "mum and bub"
- ‡Budgie, a budgerigar, a parakeet. Male swimming briefs are called budgie smugglers.
- Bundy, the city of Bundaberg, Queensland, or the Bundaberg Rum beverage
- Bunners, the Bunnings chain of hardware stores, or the city of Bunbury, Western Australia
- Bushie, a bushranger, one who is competent to live away from civilization (from bushman)
- Busso, the town of Busselton, Western Australia
C
- Cabo, Caboolture, Queensland
- Cab Sav, Cabernet Sauvignon wine
- ‡Cardie, a cardigan
- Carby or carbie, a carburetor
- Cauli (pron. "collie"), cauliflower
- Ceno or Cenno, the Centrelink office. Also used to refer to a fortnightly payment (pension or otherwise) from the Centrelink office.
- Chalkie, a teacher. From chalk used on blackboards. Once also applied to employees of the Australian Stock Exchange who wrote stock prices on chalk boards prior to computerisation.
- ‡Champers, champagne
- Chardy, chardonnay wine
- Chewy, chewing gum
- ‡Chippie, a carpenter. From wood chips
- Chockers, full to overflowing, derived from "chock-a-block"
- Chockie, chocolate
- Chocko (from chocolate soldier), a member of the Australian Army Reserve
- Chrissie or Chrissy, Christmas
- ‡Ciggie, a cigarette
- Cockie, a cockatoo. Commonly a sulphur-crested cockatoo. By extension, a farmer, e.g. "cow cockie" for dairy farmer. Also slang for cockroach
- Coldie, a cold can or stubby of beer, as in "crack a coldie"
- Connie, a bus or train conductor, a condom
- Coota, Cootamundra, also barracouta
- ‡Compo, compensation for being injured at work. Generally not used for other forms of compensation.
- Corro, corrugated iron
- ‡Cossies or Cozzies, a bathing costume
- Cow Bombie, Cowaramup Bombora
- Cranie, a crane driver
- Croc, a crocodile
- Crownie, variously refers to Crown Lager or a Crown Prosecutor, the latter popularised by the televisions series Crownies.
- ‡Cuppa, a cup of tea or coffee
D
- Dandy, Dandenong
- Datto, a Datsun automobile
- ‡Deli, a delicatessen
- Defo, definitely
- Dero or derro, a derelict, a poor (often homeless) person, or location or building; also used as an adjective
- Devo, devastated, very upset over some event
- Deso, a designated driver
- Dexxy, dextroamphetamine
- Dizzie, a car distributor, or an electrical distribution board
- Doco, a documentary
- Dodge, dodgy or suspicious
- Doughie, the doughnut driving manoeuvre
- ‡Druggie, illicit drug user
- Dunny, an outhouse, derived from dunnekin
- Durry, Duzz or Duzza, a cigarette, from the Bull Durham Smoking Tobacco brand
E
- ‡Eckies, ecstasy. From the street name for MDMA.
- Ekka, exhibition. Used to describe the Brisbane Royal Show
- Erko, the Sydney suburb of Erskineville
- Espy, establishments named "Esplanade", such as the Esplanade Hotel, Melbourne or the Esplanade Hotel (Fremantle)
- Esky, a portable insulated container. From the Eskimo brand, which was later shortened to esky.
- Exy, expensive
F
- Falsies, a heavily-padded brassiere, or dentures (false teeth)
- Farnsy, Australian singer John Farnham
- Festy, festering, denoting something disgusting
- Firie, a firefighter
- Fisho, a fisherman or woman
- Flannie or flanno, a flannelette shirt
- Flatties, flat-soled (women's) shoes
- Flatty, a flat tyre, a slotted or "flat-head" screwdriver, or a Flathead (fish)
- ‡Footy, football, which may refer to the sport of football, the ball itself, or a specific game. Generally, footy refers to Australian Rules Football in Southern and Western States or Rugby league in Queensland and New South Wales. Association football is either called football or soccer, but never footy. Rugby Union is called rugby, never footy. The Nine Network runs two longstanding variety television shows called The Footy Show; one for Aussie Rules, and the other for Rugby League.
- Franga, the suburb of Frankston, Victoria, or slang for a condom
- Freo, the city of Fremantle in Western Australia
- Freshie, a freshwater crocodile, or the Freshwater Beach in Sydney
- Forkie, a forklift operator
- Fourby, a four-wheel drive vehicle, derived from 4x4 ("four by four")
G
- G Town, nickname for Geelong, Victoria
- The G, the MCG, or Melbourne Cricket Ground
- The Gabba, The Brisbane Cricket Ground, located in the suburb of Woolloongabba.
- Garbo, a garbage collector
- Gero, Geraldton, a town in Western Australia
- Geo, a Geologist
- Gladdy, the gladioli family of plants. The term was popularised by Barry Humphries in character as Dame Edna Everage
- Glenny, Glen Waverley, a suburb of Victoria
- The Gong, Wollongong, New South Wales
- Greenie, an environmentalist, from the green movement; usually pejoratively
- Greensie, Greensborough, a suburb of Melbourne
- Gossie, Gosford
- Gunners, the band Guns N' Roses
H
- Handy, a handjob
- Heckers, hectic
- ‡Homo, homosexual (offensive)
- Hospo, hospitality
- Housos, (pron. –z–) residents of public housing
- Hundo, a one hundred dollar note
- Hypo, hyperactive
I
- Indo, Indonesia
- Indro, Indooroopilly, a suburb in Brisbane
- Iso, isolation, gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Isopropyl alcohol
J
- Jocks, men's briefs (underwear), esp. in phrase "socks and jocks"; from the brand name "Jockey"
- ‡Journo, a journalist
- Jindy, short for Jindabyne
K
- Kanga, a kangaroo
- Kero, kerosene
- Kindy, Kinda or Kinder, kindergarten
- Kinger or kingie, a Holden Kingswood automobile, or the kingfish
L
- Landy, a Toyota Land Cruiser or Land Rover automobile
- Lebo, or Leb, for Middle Eastern immigrant, specifically from Lebanon, sometimes pejorative.
- Lecky, electrical, as in "lecky tape" (Electrical tape)
- ‡Leftie, a person with left wing views; a left-handed person
- Lesbo or lezzo, a lesbian (offensive)
- Liftie, a ski lift operator
- ‡Limey, a person from the UK, prominently English (Not offensive but unfriendly)
- ‡Lippy, a lipstick
- ‡Lappy, a laptop computer
- Locko, covid lockdown or isolation
- Lonny, Point Lonsdale, Victoria
- Lotto, the lottery
M
- Maccas, McDonald's fast food restaurants This is also reflected in McDonald's corporate branding.
- Maggie, Australian magpie
- Melbs, Melbourne
- Metho or meths, methylated spirits; also Methodist
- Middy or middie, a mid-sized beer (half-pint).
- Mo, a moustache Contributed to the portmanteau "Movember".
- ‡Mong, an insult for someone implying that they are a mongoloid
- ‡Mozzie, mosquito
- Murbah, Murwillumbah
- Mushie, mushroom
- Muso, a musician
- Muzzies or muzzos, a term for Muslims, sometimes pejorative.
N
- Nasho, a conscript in the army. Derived from national service. Used especially around the Vietnam war. In the Army it was used in a derogatory sense. The term has fallen out of use as conscription in Australia ended in the 1970s. Common use is now Nationality
- Newie or Newy, Newcastle
- Nibblies, small portions of food nibbled on at parties
O
- Op shop, opportunity shop
P
- Parra, Parramatta
- Parma, Parmi or Parmy, chicken parmigiana, a pub food staple
- Paro or ‡Para, Paranoid. Also, extremely drunk (from paralytic).
- Pav, pavlova
- Penno, Pennant Hills
- Physio, physiotherapy or physiotherapist
- Pinky, a young, hairless brushtail possum that still resides in its marsupial mother's pouch, newborn rats and mice
- Pokey, pokies, (mostly as plural), a poker machine
- Pollie, a politician
- Pommie (adjective or noun), English or English person (may be derogatory) also Pom (noun)
- ‡Postie, a postman or postwoman
- Povvo or Pov, a poor or cheap person. From poverty
- Preggo or ‡preggers, pregnant
- ‡Prezzies, gifts, presents; use widespread outside Australia
- Probs, probably, also used for problem in the phrase "no probs"
- ‡Prozzies, prostitutes
- Pushie, pushbike, a bicycle
Q
- Queanie or Queany, the city of Queanbeyan
R
- Ranga, from orangutan, slang for people with red hair
- "R"ie, also rissole, RSL clubhouse
- Reffo, a pejorative term for a refugee
- Rego, a vehicle registration
- Reno, a house renovation
- Reso, a reservation
- Ressie or Ressa, the suburb of Reservoir, Victoria
- Rellie or relo, a relative
- Reo, reinforcing steel, rebar
- Rocko, the city of Rockingham, Western Australia
- Rocky, the city of Rockhampton
- ‡Rollie (pron. ROHL-ee), a roll-your-own cigarette
- Roo, a kangaroo
- Roofie, a roofer; also the date rape drug‡
- ‡Rottie, a Rottweiler dog
- Rotto, Rottnest Island
S
- Saltie, a saltwater crocodile
- Salvos, Salvation Army. The term is used officially by the Salvation Army in Australia.
- Sanga or Sanger, a sandwich. Originally sango, but evolved to its current form by the 1960s.
- Sanny, hand sanitiser
- Sav, saveloy, especially battered sav, a showtime treat
- Savvy B, Sauvignon Blanc wine
- Scratchie, a lottery ticket
- ScoMo, Scott Morrison, 30th prime minister of Australia
- Scrooge or screwge, a screwdriver
- Selfie, a self-shot photograph. This term originated in Australia and has been adopted worldwide via the internet. It became The Oxford Dictionary's 2013 word of the year.
- ‡Semi, a semi-trailer truck, also a semi-final
- ‡Seppo, a pejorative term for an American. Seppo is a diminutive of septic tank which is in turn rhyming slang for yank, which is a diminutive of yankee.
- Servo, a petrol station, service station
- Sheppo, the Victorian regional city of Shepparton.
- Shoey, the act of drinking from shoes, typically alcoholic beverages
- ‡Shottie, a shotgun; also the act of riding in the front passenger seat of a vehicle, sometimes announced as "I call shotgun/shottie", to indicate that a person has claimed this seat. Can also refer to the carb hole in a bong.
- ‡Sickie, a sick day, often with a connotation of there being insufficient medical reason for missing work
- Sicko, a psychology disturbed person, or someone who may be fanatically into horror movies
- Smoko, a smoking break while at work. Since smoking has been banned in many workplaces, a smoko has come to mean any rest break at work.
- Snag, Sausage
- ‡Sparkie or Sparky, an electrician. From sparking, electric arcing
- Spenny, expensive
- Stezza, a stereo playback system such as with home audio or vehicle audio
- Straya, short for Australia
- Stubby or Stubbie, a small, wide bottle of beer
- Subbie, a subcontractor
- Subi or Subie, a Subaru car, or the suburb of Subiaco, Western Australia
- ‡Sunnies, sunglasses
- Surfie, a surfer
- Susso, from sustenance payments, a form of welfare during the Great Depression in the form of food coupons. The word has fallen out of use.
- ‡Suss, suspicious.
- Swaggie, a swagman
T
- Tanty, a tantrum
- Tassie, Tazzy or Taz, Tasmania or Tasmanian
- Techo, technician, technical (adjective)
- ‡Tellie or telly, a television
- ‡Tinnie, historically referred to a beverage can (usually a beer can) but today generally refers to an aluminium flat-bottomed boat. From tin can
- Tonguey, to French kiss
- Toonie, Toongabbie, a historic suburb in Western Sydney
- Towie, tow truck or a tow truck driver
- Townie, a townsperson; in contrast to bushie, a bushman
- ‡Trackies, track pants or a tracksuit. Track pants are also known as "trackie dacks", with "dacks" being a colloquial term for trousers.
- Tradie, a tradesperson
- Traino, a train station
- Trannie or tranny, a car's transmission, or an electrical transformer, or an offensive word for a transgender person; also outdated slang for a transistor radio
- Treadlie or treadly, a bicycle
- Troppo, from "tropics" as in "gone troppo", unhinged mentally (orig. army slang)
- Truckie, a truck driver
- ‡Turps, alcohol, from turpentine, a toxic solvent historically used to adulterate gin. Usually used to say a person is "on the turps" (drinking heavily).
- ‡Typo, a typographic error
U
- U-ey ,U'ie (you-eee), as in "Chuck a u-ey" — to perform a U-turn (when driving a vehicle)
- Umpie or Ump, an umpire at a sporting game
- ‡Undies, underwear. This word is used widely outside Australian English.
- ‡Uni, university
- Ute, an abbreviation of "utility"; a passenger vehicle with a cargo tray in the rear. Festivals that involve gatherings of utes are popular in rural areas and are called ute musters.
V
- ‡Veggie or vegie, vegetables, generally not a vegetarian
- Veggo, a vegetarian, never a vegetable
- Vinnies, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. The term is used officially by the society in Australia. Commonly runs "op shops" (opportunity shops)
W
- Westie, resident of a western suburb (several capital cities)
- Wharfie, a docks worker
- Wheelie, several car and bike manoeuvres — wheelstand or wheelspin; meaning found from context
- Winnie or Winnies, the Winfield brand of cigarettes, esp. "Winnie Blue", a low-tar variety
- ‡Wino, an alcoholic who subsists on cheap, probably fortified, wine
- Wobbly, a tantrum
- Wombie or womby, a wombat, also slang for feces
- ‡Woolies, Woolworths supermarkets
- Woollies, especially Winter woollies, woollen garments
- Wristy or wristie, a handjob
See also
References
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So in Australia, 'mo' is slang for mustache, so we renamed the month of November 'Movember'.
- "THE TALE OF THE MURBAH SWAMP BEER". Stone and Wood. 27 February 2017.
- "Crittle set to tackle Murbah" by Jamie Gallagher and Geoff Campbell, Tweed Daily News (15 December 2009)
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