Culture · Language
Patois Dictionary
Decode the language behind the music. From yard slang to dancehall anthems — every word rooted in Jamaican heritage.
30 terms
Babylon
The corrupt system of oppression — police, government, or unjust authority.
Big up
To praise, respect, or give recognition to someone.
Bredren
Close male friend; brother in spirit.
Bun
To cheat on a partner; betrayal in a relationship.
Chargie
A close, trusted friend; ride-or-die companion.
Criss
Nice, sharp, well-dressed, or cool.
Dun know
You already know; obviously; for sure.
Duppy
A ghost or spirit of the dead.
Forward
Move ahead; encouragement to progress or keep going.
Gaza
Vybz Kartel's affiliated community and fan base; Portmore, St. Catherine.
Genna
Christmas season in Jamaica; also used to describe festive, celebratory energy.
Gully
The inner-city community; associated with Gaza/Gully dancehall faction culture.
Gwaan easy
Take it easy; relax; go slowly.
Gyalis
A man who is romantically involved with multiple women; a ladies' man or player.
Irie
Everything is good; feeling positive, peaceful, or alright.
Likkle more
See you later; goodbye (literally 'little more').
Mash up
To destroy, overwhelm, or perform exceptionally well.
Nyabinghi
A Rastafari drumming ceremony and spiritual gathering.
Nyam
To eat (often voraciously).
Pickney
A child.
Riddim
An instrumental track over which multiple artists record different songs.
Selah
Amen; so be it; a pause for reflection (from biblical/Psalms usage).
Shell dung
To destroy, dominate, or tear down — on stage or in an argument.
Sister / Sistren
Close female friend; sister in spirit.
Tun up
Turn up; extremely lively, exciting, or hyped.
Wah gwaan
What's going on? A universal greeting meaning hello or what's up.
Wicked
Excellent, impressive, or extremely good (opposite of standard English meaning).
Wine
To dance with rhythmic hip movement; to gyrate.
Yard
Home, Jamaica, or one's community.
Zeen
You understand?; you see?; right?