Definition

1. Noun:

   • Informal, non-standard vocabulary: Words, phrases, and expressions that are very informal, often created and used within specific social groups, generations, or subcultures. This language is typically not considered appropriate for formal writing or speech.
   • Specialized jargon of a group: The characteristic, often playful or secretive, language used by a particular group, such as teenagers, professionals, or enthusiasts.

2. Verb:

   • To use slang: To speak using very informal, non-standard words or expressions.
   • To attack with abusive language: To abuse or criticize someone using harsh, coarse, or vulgar language.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The word "cool" started as jazz slang before becoming mainstream.
  • Understanding internet slang is essential for communicating online.
• Verb:
  • The coach slangd the player for missing an easy shot. (Note: "slanged" is the simple past/past participle form, though rare.)
  • He tends to slang when he's with his old friends from the neighborhood.

Advanced Usage

• "To be all slang and no substance": To speak in a trendy or informal way without having anything meaningful to say.
  • His presentation was all slang and no substance; we learned nothing new.

Variants and Related Words

• Slangy (adj): Having the characteristics of slang; very informal in language.
  • He has a very slangy way of talking.
• Slanger (n): (Rare) A person who uses a lot of slang.

Synonyms

• Noun: Jargon, lingo, argot, cant, vernacular, patois.
• Verb (to abuse): Berate, revile, vilify, vituperate.
• Verb (to fool): Dupe, hoax, deceive, trick. (Note: This meaning is now very rare for the verb "slang".)

Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions

• Slang off (British, informal): To criticize or insult someone.
  • He got slangd off by his boss for being late.

Related Idioms

• Slang match: A heated exchange of insults using informal, often creative language.
  • The debate turned into a slang match between the two rivals.

Noun

1. a characteristic language of a particular group (as among thieves)
   • they don't speak our lingo
2. informal language consisting of words and expressions that are not considered appropriate for formal occasions; often vituperative or vulgar
   • their speech was full of slang expressions

Verb

1. abuse with coarse language
2. fool or hoax
   • The immigrant was duped because he trusted everyone
   • You can't fool me!
3. use slang or vulgar language