India Slang Dictionary

Scrambled eggs (a popular breakfast or snack item, often takeaway)

Random, nonsensical talk or actions. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Rogue; scoundrel; mischievous person. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Guy/Girl (informal). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Money (informal, literally "light/bulb", used as a slang term)

Sister-f***er (extremely vulgar, highly offensive). Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Sister (often used informally or sometimes with a slightly mocking tone for a conservative woman)

Brother (informal address for a male friend or stranger)

To be relegated to the "friend zone," specifically as a "brother." (From English "brother" + "zone")

I will destroy you; I will burn you to ashes (dramatic threat)

Im hungry (common informal phrase). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Carefree; chilled out; cool. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Cool; carefree; with a relaxed and stylish attitude

An extremely successful movie or song (direct loanword)

Major standardized examinations taken by students in their final years of secondary school

To build muscle; to work out to develop a good physique (literally "to make body")

Wearing brand-name or designer clothing. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Flatterer; sycophant. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Tea (very popular, often consumed with snacks). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Round (e.g., "ek chakkar lagana" - to take a round); also implies affair or complicated situation

An affair; a secret romantic relationship (literally "circle" or " चक्कर")

Feeling dizzy or faint. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Smashed; shattered (can be used to describe being extremely drunk)

It works; its acceptable; its fine (implies mediocrity is acceptable)

Cunning; sly; also, something that is currently working/on (e.g., "fan chalu hai")

Toady; yes-man (literally "spoon"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Skin (often used in phrases like "chamdi udhed doonga" - I will skin you alive)

Someone or something flashy, gaudy, or overly sparkly

Cash (less common, but heard in some circles). Tied to money, status, or spending talk in casual conversation. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Someone who wears glasses (often used as a playful or slightly teasing term)

A type of historical tenement housing, often with small, single-room units and shared facilities (common in Mumbai)

Unexpected good fortune (literally "breaking the roof"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Sleek/smooth-looking; often used to describe a good-looking and stylish man/woman

Relax; calm down (literally "hit chill"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Clingy; sticky (person). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Clingy; overly attached person. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Idiot; foolish person (vulgar, derived from a sexual term)

A planned residential area or neighborhood (standard but widely used)

Alcohol; liquor. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Lunchbox; tiffin box. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A roadside eatery, typically serving local cuisine (informal restaurant)

Lid/cap; used to imply someone is dense or empty-headed

Fun; excitement; a wild party or an exciting, successful song/film

Blast; explosion; a big hit or success (e.g., a hit movie)

Wealth; money (more formal, but also used in casual contexts)

Flashy; showy; trendy (often used for catchy but somewhat cheesy music/videos)

Completely drunk; blotto. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A heartfelt connection; a relationship of the heart

Another spelling/pronunciation for dhinchak, flashy/showy. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Friend; buddy. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Excellent; superb. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Useless; pointless; rubbish. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To fail (an exam/course - common Hinglish). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

It doesnt matter; I dont care. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Coward. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Dont worry (from English "fear not" or "worry not")

Used to describe someone who is generally healthy and active, but not necessarily lean (hybrid term)

Apartment; rental unit (widely used Hinglish term). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Eternal or permanent love (used to describe a committed connection)

Completely drunk; very intoxicated (common Hinglish). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Fundamental; concept; core idea (informal). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Car; vehicle (general term). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Donkey; used to call someone stupid or stubborn. Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

An alleyway or narrow street. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Street cricket; informal cricket played in the streets or small local spaces

Rustic; unsophisticated; bumpkin (implies lack of manners or education)

Nonsense; nothing (literally "bell," used sarcastically). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Bad; low quality; trashy. Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Outdated; old-fashioned (can refer to old teaching methods or curriculum)

A studious person; nerd (often derogatory). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A popular street food snack (also "pani puri"). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Disorder; confusion; foul play. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Thug; hooligan; gangster. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To get nervous or lose courage (literally "hands and feet swelling")

To boast; to be overly proud (literally "to fly in the air")

Dont understand; not getting it (literally "air is not touching")

An attractive person (often female, can be slightly objectifying)

A catchy song and dance sequence in an Indian film, often featuring a prominent actress

Life/Soulmate (a high compliment and term of deep endearment)

Trouble; mess; scam. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Improvised or DIY fashion; creating a stylish look with limited resources

Resourceful person, especially one good at "jugad". Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A clever, improvised solution or workaround. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A hack; an improvised solution (often used for quick fixes for studies or exams)

Improvised or makeshift fitness training or equipment. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

An improvised or makeshift vehicle (often for carrying goods)

To overtake aggressively in traffic (literally "to cut")

Scrap; junk; but sometimes used sarcastically for a small amount of money

Rubbish; trash. Signals disapproval or disappointment; tone can be humorous or harsh. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Fun; mischief; often used to describe playful activities

To run away quickly; to escape. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Feeling bored or fed up. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To copy in an exam; to cheat (literally "to cut"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A very attractive girl (informal, affectionate). Usually warm or playful; read the relationship before assuming sincerity. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Food; a meal (general term). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Grumpy; rude; mean person. Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A dilapidated or old vehicle/thing. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

One crore (10,000,000) rupees (literally "empty box/shell"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Girl/Boy (informal). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A sweet spherical dessert (often used in "muh me ladoo" - to praise oneself)

I am screwed; I am in trouble (often used when things go wrong)

Moments (often used in a nostalgic or poetic context)

Boy/Girl (more informal, often youth slang, can be slightly derogatory depending on context)

Take it (informal command). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To flirt; to hit on someone (literally "to draw a line")

Mumbai/Kolkata suburban train network (used to refer to the train itself)

Problem; complication. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Goods; stuff; can also refer to drugs or a woman (often derogatory)

Stuff; goods; also used for money (informal, sometimes implying illicit money)

Uncle (informal, sometimes used to refer to someone gullible)

To create a ruckus; to cause a sensation; to have a blast

House; residence (often informal). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Smooth; excellent (literally "butter"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Forget it; dismiss it (literally "shoot a bullet")

Problem; issue (Urdu/Hindi, common in informal speech). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Great; awesome; fun. Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Awesome; excellent; cool (applied to a song, video, or movie)

To travel by taxi or auto-rickshaw using the fare meter, rather than a negotiated flat rate

Snobbish; stuck-up (feminine, literally "nose-up"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Worthless; good-for-nothing; useless. Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Breakfast or light snacks. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Drama; theatrics; someone who creates unnecessary drama. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Drunk; under the influence (short for "on alcohol")

Crazy; mad. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Money (general term, also a specific coin denomination)

Worth the money; value for money. Tied to money, status, or spending talk in casual conversation. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Worth the money; providing full entertainment value (used for movies or concerts)

Boring; irritating (literally "to cook," implying to bore someone to death)

To pass (an exam/course - common Hinglish). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A very attractive girl (literally "firecracker"). Usually warm or playful; read the relationship before assuming sincerity. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To impress and win over someone romantically; to woo

To impress or convince someone, especially to win their affection

Eating a meal (literally "stomach worship" - humorous/informal)

One lakh (100,000) rupees (literally "suitcase" or "box")

To boast; to exaggerate (literally "to throw"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Free of cost; without effort. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Buttocks (vulgar). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Village; often used by people living in cities to refer to their ancestral village

An affluent or expensive residential neighborhood. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Excellent; outstanding (Mumbai slang). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Prostitute (used as a very offensive insult, often for women)

To rote learn; to mug up (often implies learning without understanding)

A motorized auto-rickshaw (a common form of local transport)

Cash; hard cash (informal). Tied to money, status, or spending talk in casual conversation. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Rupees (general term, often used informally). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

True love (implies a deep, honest, and eternal connection)

Thats right; correct; cool (used for approval). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A fried or baked pastry with a savoury filling, a popular snack/takeaway item

Situation; plans; whats happening. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

The situation completely changed (literally "the scene flipped")

Sentimental; often used to describe an emotional social media post or comment

An arrangement, often an informal or illicit one (e.g., romantic arrangement)

A casual or unofficial romantic arrangement/relationship. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Clever; cunning; street-smart (often with a slightly negative connotation)

Magnificent; splendid; fabulous. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Show-off; pretence; unnecessary fuss. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A six-run hit in cricket (widely understood term). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To obsessively look at someones social media profile (used humorously, not always negatively)

A major hit (used extensively in Bollywood and music industry)

A cigarette. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Health is bad; feeling sick or unwell. Signals disapproval or disappointment; tone can be humorous or harsh. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Drunk; intoxicated (very common, informal Hindi). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

A street hooligan; a rough, uncultured person (often used for specific Mumbai street culture)

Street smart; can refer to a genre of music or a film character with local, street style

Style; attitude (often swaggering). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Style; attitude; a cool and fashionable swagger. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Crooked; complicated; difficult (literally "bent"). Often used approvingly among peers; can sound exaggerated or ironic online. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Stress; anxiety; worry (widely used loanword). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Exhausted; very tired (male form). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Derogatory term for a policeman. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

To pass time; often used for aimlessly scrolling through social media or the internet

Something done to pass time; often used for a casual, non-serious relationship

Hat (often used in "topi pehnana" - to fool someone, literally "to make wear a hat")

To post inflammatory comments (from English, widely used)

Drunk; tipsy (similar to tallu, but can be milder)

Fool; idiot (literally "owl"). Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Owl; used to call someone stupid or foolish. Used as informal criticism or teasing; strength depends on relationship and delivery. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Son of an owl; an even stronger way of calling someone a fool/idiot

Vomit; also used for something repulsive or negative

A popular street food snack (potato fritter in a bun, specific to Maharashtra)

Idle; jobless; free time. Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Someone who is always jobless or free (informal). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

Recovery of money, often through informal or coercive means

Friend; mate (informal address). Informal shorthand whose exact tone depends on who is speaking and where it appears. It is commonly discussed in India contexts

An extremely thin physique (often referring to women, from fashion terminology)

Henpecked husband or "wife's slave" (teasing a devoted partner)