Word of the Day [02 Jun 2026]

Amandala

The word is used as an intentional misspelling and pronunciation of the word ‘amandla’ which means strength.

The word was popularised on social media after Naomi Campbell said ‘amandala’ instead of the correct ‘amandla’ at the Global Citizen Festival in 2018.


You'll be strong. Hayi wethu Amandala to you.

Jacket

Not to be confused with the clothing item. This is a SePitori term for R10 (Ten Rands). In other parts of South Africa, R10 is referred to as Tiger


Ke shota ka jacket, ntjaka.

Mkhuluwa

Mkhuluwa is a Xhosa term for older brother. It can also be used as a respectful way of addressing an older man.


Let’s go out, mkhuluwa.


Kwedini

A Xhosa term for small boy. It is generally used by older men when referring to a younger boy.
It can also be used to refer to an adult male but you need to make sure that you are not scared of that person you call kwedini.


I will moer you, kwedini. Don't disrespect me like that.

qwel

Another level


"Do you know where I'm qwelling?"


Mswapheni

A person, usually a blesser or sugar mama who just swipes his/her card without any hesitation.


We are out of beer... mswapheni
We are out of meat... mswapheni

Matric Dance

Also known as Matric Farewell - Is when grade 12 (last year of high school) learners have one final formal function, often followed by parties, underage drinking and bad decisions. Each school usually has its own dance and pupils usually come with a date and wear expensive suits and dresses.
Americans would call it prom


I don't know who I am going to take to the Matric Dance.


Street Kid

Street kid is a term used in South Africa to refer to homeless kids, living on the streets.


I almost a became a street kid when I lost my mother.

Madagascar

A large island nation with unique wildlife, vanilla production, and French cultural influences.


Madagascar is home to lemurs found nowhere else on Earth.


Mapakisha

A South African slang term for someone with a big butt or nyash.


I don't like squats cause I don' t wanna be a mapakisha.

Slatsa

1. Refers to a stupid/childish person.


"ejoh wena o slatsa!"
"bro you're stupid"




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