Oxford Dictionary adds Nigerian slang and food terms in new update
The Oxford English Dictionary has expanded its collection to include several Nigerian-origin words, reflecting the growing impact of Nigerian language and culture. In its latest update, the dictionary introduced terms from everyday expressions to popular dishes. Words like “nyash,” “mammy market,” and “amala” now appear alongside other global English varieties. The update highlights the influence of Nigerian English, Pidgin, and street slang on the global stage.
What we know
- The December 2025 update, released on the OED website on Wednesday, features more than 500 new words, phrases, and senses.
- The Oxford English Dictionary expanded its lexicon with 20 Nigerian words and expressions in a January 2025 update.
- Newly added Nigerian words include “nyash,” “mammy market,” “amala,” “moi moi,” “abeg,” “biko,” and “Ghana Must Go.”
- “Afrobeats” was included and defined as a style of popular music with West African roots.
- The update also revised over 1,000 existing entries and explored the histories of words like “troll,” “coffee,” and “snooker.”
