slang
UK[slæŋ]US[slæŋ]
n
Very informal words and expressions that are more common in spoken language, especially used by a particular group of people.
v
To use angry and offensive language to insult someone.
Etymology
The origin of the word 'slang' itself is obscure, first appearing in the mid-18th century. One prominent theory suggests it derives from a specialized use of the verb 'to sling,' as in 'to sling words' or 'to sling insults,' capturing the forceful, hurled nature of such language. Another hypothesis connects it to Scandinavian sources, such as the Norwegian 'slengjeord,' meaning 'an insulting word' or literally a 'sling-word.' Regardless of its precise root, the term's journey reflects its function: it began as a label for the specialized, often subversive vocabulary of specific groups like criminals or street vendors, before broadening to denote any informal, non-standard lexicon distinct from formal speech.
Analysis
The word 'slang' is a simplex word of uncertain origin. It does not lend itself to segmentation into productive morphemes within modern English spelling.
Examples
The word "cool" started as slang but is now standard English.
He was fined for slanging the referee during the match.
Military slang can be incomprehensible to outsiders.