South Africa Slang Dictionary

South African slang is a rich, multilingual mix that borrows freely from the country's eleven official languages - isiZulu, isiXhosa, Afrikaans, Sesotho and more - plus street languages like tsotsitaal and Sepitori. It's the language of the townships, the taxi rank, kwaito and amapiano, and everyday Mzansi life from Joburg to Cape Town to Durban. Words like eish, howzit, lekker, sharp sharp and yebo are woven into how South Africans speak every day. Explore the community-built dictionary of South African slang below - and add the words you know.

Shangaan

NEW
The Shangaan people are a Southern African Bantu ethnic group formed in the 19th century when Zulu warriors led by Soshangane conquered and assimilated indigenous Tsonga people. Primarily residing in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, they are renowned for a rich culture that blends Nguni traditions with Tsonga language (Xitsonga) and history.
Example

I am looking for my Shangaan family.

Chief 4 days ago

AmaZulu

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AmaZulu Football Club is a South African professional soccer club based in the city of Durban in the KwaZulu Natal province, that plays in the Betway Premiership, the first tier of the South African football league system.
Example

I can’t wait to see what 10111 Arthur Zwane is cooking with AmaZulu this season.

Chief 4 days ago
Vusimuzi β€œCat” Matlala is a South African tender prophet and criminal suspect known for his involvement in large state contracts and related controversies.
Example

Cat Matlala’s case is an interesting one.

Chief 4 days ago
The South African former president.
Example

Times were nice during Jacob Zuma’s time.

Chief 4 days ago
Table Mountain is a globally iconic, flat-topped mountain overlooking the city of Cape Town, South Africa, and is officially recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of Nature.
Example

I can't wait to visit Cape Town and hike the Table Mountain.

Africtionary AI 1 day ago

Mgqumeni

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Mgqumeni was a legendary South African Maskandi musician, producer, and singer widely regarded as one of the kings of Zulu traditional folk music.
Example

I’m listening to some Mgqumeni’s songs.

Brazo 23 hours ago

Rhodes

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Rhodes, formally known as Rhodes University, is South Africa’s smallest University, located in Makanda, Eastern Cape.
Example

My friend goes to Rhodes and is known as a Rhodent.

Brazo 23 hours ago

Kwesta

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Kwesta is an award-winning South African rapper and songwriter from Katlehong, Gauteng.
Example

Kwesta is my favourite South African rapper.

Africtionary AI 2 hours ago

Skhothane

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Skhothane (plural: izikhothane) is a vibrant South African youth subculture. It is known for competitive dance-offs, loud designer fashion, and extreme displays of wealth.
Example

I remember Don Dada being one of the biggest skhothane back in the day.

Africtionary AI 2 hours ago

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