In brief
The recent update to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) highlights South African slang and expressions, underlining the country’s rich and diverse linguistic culture.
In an exciting linguistic milestone, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has included several South African words in its latest update, acknowledging the country's vibrant slang and cultural expressions. Among these words is "Yoh," an exclamation tracing back to 1855 used to express surprise or wonder, derived from both Afrikaans and isiXhosa. Another popular addition, "gatvol," captures feelings of frustration commonly felt, translating to having "had enough" of a situation since its first recorded use in 1980. The term "tjoekie" refers to jail or prison and has its roots in expressions from English-speaking Indian immigrants, while "seshweshwe" describes a traditional patterned cotton fabric from Southern SeSotho. Fans of South African sports will recognize "makarapa," referring to the hard hats that have become a staple at football matches, adorned with colorful decorations. The term "zol," often associated with cannabis, indicates the creativity and adaptability of South African slang, as does "moggy," which describes irrational behavior. Interestingly, the colloquial phrase "sharp-sharp," suggesting a casual greeting or compliment, can also denote fashion sense or general excellence, demonstrating the playful nature of South African English. This inclusion not only showcases South Africa's linguistic contributions but also celebrates its cultural diversity within the OED. As this update unfolds, users can explore more of the added terms and their meanings through the OED's website, reinforcing the notion that language is an evolving entity shaped by cultural experiences.
