‘Japa’, ‘Eba’, ‘Abi’, 17 Other Nigerian Words And Slangs Newly Added To The Oxford English Dictionary

Nigerian Words Added to The Oxford Dictionary

In its latest update, the Oxford English Dictionary has expanded its lexicon with 20 Nigerian words and slang. The newly added entries include popular terms like “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi,” among others.

These words, deeply rooted in the daily lives of Nigerians, highlight the influence of Pidgin English, street slang, and cultural expressions that are increasingly gaining global recognition.

Notably, some of the words, such as “Japa” and “Jand,” appear as both nouns and verbs in the dictionary. Pronunciation guides have also been provided to assist non-Nigerians in accurately articulating the words.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant to the Oxford English Dictionary, announced the update on LinkedIn on Tuesday.

He expressed excitement over his role in drafting the words and recording their pronunciations.

Ugwuanyi wrote:

“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.

“This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their hashtag#pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my hashtag#voice bringing these words to life.”

Here is the full list of the newly added words:

  • 419
  • Abi
  • Adire
  • Agbero
  • Area boy
  • Cross-carpet
  • Cross-carpeting
  • Eba
  • Edo
  • Gele
  • Jand (noun & verb)
  • Janded
  • Japa (noun & verb)
  • Kanuri
  • Kobo
  • Naija
  • Suya
  • Yahoo
  • Yahoo boy
  • Yarn dust