In its latest update, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) added 20 Nigerian words and expressions to its collection.
Among the newly added entries are widely used terms such as “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi.”
These words, deeply embedded in the fabric of Nigerian society, reflect the growing global appreciation for Pidgin English, street slang, and cultural nuances unique to the country.
Some terms like “japa” and “jand” are included in the dictionary as both nouns and verbs, showcasing their versatile usage.
Pronunciation guides have also been incorporated to help non-Nigerians articulate these words correctly.
Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant for the OED, shared the exciting news on LinkedIn, expressing his pride in contributing to the dictionary’s latest update.
“I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP has officially published its latest updates, featuring an amazing collection of Nigerian English words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians,” Ugwuanyi wrote.
He added, “This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their #pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my #voice bringing these words to life.”
Japa: Defined as “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries (esp. those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.”
Agbero: “A person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout, typically at car parks and bus stops, collecting money from passengers and drivers, and ushering passengers onto vehicles.”
Yahoo: Fraud perpetrated on the internet, esp. involving requests for advance payment for services or products that are ultimately never provided. Usually reduplicated, as yahoo yahoo.
Full List of Newly Added Words
- 419
- Abi
- Adire
- Agbero
- Area boy
- Cross-carpet
- Cross-carpeting
- Eba
- Edo
- Gele
- Jand (noun, verb)
- Janded (adjective)
- Japa (noun, verb)
- Kanuri
- Kobo
- Naija
- Suya
- Yahoo
- Yahoo boy
- Yarn Dust
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