10+ New York Slang terms Only Locals Understand
New York City is known for its unique culture, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in it is by learning New York slang terms. These expressions are commonly used by locals and are a true reflection of the city’s fast-paced lifestyle. Whether you’re visiting or planning to stay, mastering these slang phrases will help you fit right in with the natives. From “Yerrr” to “Dead*ss,” these New York slang terms are a must-know for anyone wanting to speak like a real New Yorker.
Talk Like a New Yorker: Slang That Defines the City
1. Yerrr – The NYC Call
“Yerrr” isn’t just a greeting—it’s an energy check. You’ll hear it yelled across subway platforms, down the block, or even in a crowded party. It’s a way to get someone’s attention or just acknowledge their presence.
How to use it:
- “Yerrr!”
- “Yerrr?” (Question form, meaning “Are you good?”)
- “YERRR!” (Expecting a response back.)
If someone says “Yerrr” to you, don’t leave them hanging—throw it right back.
2. Bet – The Ultimate Response
“Bet” is the Swiss army knife of NYC slang. It means “okay,” “watch me,” “we’ll see,” or “I agree,” depending on how it’s used.
Ways to use it:
- “Yo, you down to meet at 8?” → “Bet.” (Means: “Sounds good.”)
- “You won’t make that shot.” → “Bet.” (Means: “Watch me prove you wrong.”)
- “You tryna go out?” → “Bet.” (Means: “I’m in.”)
3. The City – Manhattan, No Debate
If a New Yorker says, “I’m heading to The City,” they only mean Manhattan—even if they already live in NYC. This confuses tourists all the time.
Example:
- “Where you at?”
- “In Brooklyn, about to head to The City.”
If you try to argue that Queens or Brooklyn are part of the city, you’re technically right… but also very wrong.
4. Brick – When the Cold Hits Different
New Yorkers don’t say “It’s freezing.” Instead, they say, “It’s brick outside.” This term is exclusively used for describing extreme cold.
Example:
- “Bro, it’s brick out. You forgot your coat?”
- “Why is the wind OD brick today?”
If the weather drops below 40°F (4°C), expect to hear this all over the city.
5. Grill – Staring Contest, But Aggressive
If someone says, “Why you grilling me?” they don’t mean BBQ—they mean stop staring.
Example:
- “That dude was grilling me on the train.”
- “You see that? He was grilling hard.”
If you make eye contact for too long with a stranger in NYC, expect a “What’s good?” (which isn’t really a question).
6. Dub – Multiple Meanings, Same Energy
This is one of NYC’s most versatile slang terms, and it changes based on the context.
Meanings:
- A $20 bill → “I only got a dub on me.”
- To ignore/reject someone → “She dubbed my text.”
- A loss/failure → “Waiting in that long line? That’s a dub.”
Context is everything, so listen closely to figure out which meaning applies.
7. Wylin’ – Acting Reckless
When someone is wylin’, they’re doing the absolute most—usually in a negative way.
Examples:
- “You saw that guy screaming on the subway? He was wylin’.”
- “You spent $15 on a hot dog? Nah, you wylin’.”
It can also be used as a warning:
- “Chill, you wylin’ right now.”
8. Tight – Angry or Frustrated
If a New Yorker is “tight,” they’re not talking about their jeans—they’re mad about something.
Examples:
- “I’m tight that I missed my train.”
- “Bro, I got a parking ticket. I’m mad tight.”
It’s often followed by headshakes and sighs.
9. Dead*ss – No Cap, No Joke
When a New Yorker says “I’m dead*ss,” they mean business. It’s a way of emphasizing that they are completely serious.
Examples:
- “You really paid $8 for a chopped cheese?”
- “Yeah, dead*ss.” (Translation: “I’m not joking.”)
- “I’m deadss about to quit my job.”*
It can also be used as a question:
- “Dead*ss?” (Means: “Are you serious?”)
10. Ock – Your Favorite Bodega Guy
“Ock” is short for “Akh,” an Arabic term meaning “brother,” often used to refer to bodega workers who make legendary sandwiches.
Example:
- “I’m about to hit up the ock for a bacon, egg, and cheese.”
The chopped cheese from the ock is a New York staple. If you know, you know.
11. Smacked – Beyond Tired
This one has a few meanings, but it usually refers to being really high, drunk, or exhausted.
Examples:
- “I pulled an all-nighter—I’m smacked right now.”
- “Yo, he’s smacked off that Henny.”
If someone says they’re smacked, don’t expect them to function properly.
12. Mad – NYC’s Favorite Intensifier
“Mad” doesn’t mean angry—it just means “very” or “a lot.”
Examples:
- “That pizza spot is mad good.”
- “Why’s it mad hot in here?”
It replaces “really” or “super” in any sentence.
Mastering New York slang terms is a fun way to connect with the city’s culture and locals. Whether you’re walking through the streets of Manhattan or catching a ride on the subway, these phrases will help you blend in like a true New Yorker. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be using these terms like you’ve lived in the city for years. Ready to take your NYC experience to the next level? Keep exploring and stay tuned for more insider tips on life in the Big Apple. Check out our Tips for Visiting New York City From a Local to make the most of your time in this iconic city.
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