Last Updated on March 17, 2025 by Caesar
New York City isn’t just a place—it’s a language of its own. Step onto a subway platform or into a corner bodega, and you’ll hear a rhythm of speech that moves as fast as the city itself. If you want to blend in and understand the locals, you’ll need more than just a map. You need to learn how to speak like a New Yorker.
NYC slang is bold, direct, and, at times, utterly confusing to outsiders. Some words have roots stretching back decades, while others are fresh additions to the city’s ever-evolving vocabulary. Understanding these expressions isn’t just about language—it’s about getting to the heart of New York culture.
Before we jump into the breakdown, check out this comprehensive list of NYC slang terms and their meanings. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes New York slang so unique.
Deadass
You’ll hear this one often, and it’s not to be taken lightly. “Deadass” means someone is completely serious about what they’re saying. No sarcasm. No jokes. Just straight-up facts.
Example: “You really waited three hours for a Supreme drop?” “Deadass.”
Mad
No, it doesn’t mean angry—not here. In New York, “mad” is an intensifier, meaning “very” or “a lot.” It can describe anything, from emotions to how good a slice of pizza is.
Example: “That new deli on 14th? Their chopped cheese is mad good.”
Brick
If you visit during winter, you’ll hear this one right away. “Brick” is the New York way of saying freezing cold. It’s a no-nonsense way to describe those bone-chilling gusts between the buildings.
Example: “Why you got on three jackets?” “Bro, it’s brick outside.”
Bodega
A New Yorker’s lifeline. A “bodega” is a small convenience store found on nearly every block, selling everything from bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches to toilet paper at 2 a.m. It’s where locals go for their everyday essentials.
Example: “I’m hitting the bodega, need anything?”
Facts
This is another way to agree with someone emphatically. If someone drops a truth bomb, you hit them with “Facts” to let them know you feel the same way.
Example: “The MTA always wildin’ with these delays.” “Facts.”
OD
Short for “overdoing” or “overdose,” “OD” is used to describe anything excessive—whether it’s good or bad.
Example: “That guy was OD loud on the train.”
Tight
If someone says they’re “tight,” they’re not talking about their clothes. This means they’re mad, frustrated, or just straight-up annoyed.
Example: “They gave away my seat at the bar.” “I’d be tight too.”
Wildin’
This means someone is acting crazy, reckless, or just out of pocket. It’s a go-to phrase for calling out ridiculous behavior.
Example: “Did you see that guy dancing in the middle of traffic?” “Yeah, he was wildin’.”
Yerrr
Less of a word, more of a call. “Yerrr” is a way to get someone’s attention or acknowledge someone from across the street. It’s the NYC equivalent of “Yo!” but with extra flair.
Example: “Yerrr!” “Yerrr, what’s good?”
Wylin’
This one is close to “wildin’” but with a slightly different vibe. It means doing the absolute most—whether it’s positive or negative.
Example: “She spent $500 on brunch? She’s wylin’.”
Son
Not to be confused with actual fatherhood. In NYC, “son” is just another way of referring to a friend or someone you’re talking to.
Example: “Son, you gotta check out this new pizza spot.”
Chop Cheese
A New York classic. This is a sandwich made with ground beef, melted cheese, and toppings, usually served on a hero roll. It’s a go-to meal, especially from the bodega.
Example: “Let’s grab a chop cheese before we head home.”
On Everything
Used to emphasize the truthfulness of a statement. If someone says “on everything,” they’re not playing around.
Example: “You really quitting your job?” “On everything.”
What’s the Word?
This is just another way to ask what’s going on or what the plan is.
Example: “What’s the word tonight?” “Pull up to the function.”
Pull Up
Means to come through or show up at a place. If someone tells you to “pull up,” they expect to see you there.
Example: “We at the park, pull up.”
Word to My Mother
A phrase used to express extreme sincerity. When a New Yorker says this, they mean business.
Example: “You really gonna do that?” “Word to my mother.”
You Good?
A versatile phrase. It can be a genuine question of concern or a passive-aggressive way of checking someone’s attitude.
Example: “You good?” (Concerned) “Yeah, just tired.”
Or:
“You good?” (Aggressive) “Yeah, I’m good. What’s up?”
The Heartbeat of the City
New York slang isn’t just about words—it’s about attitude, energy, and knowing how to hold your own in a fast-moving city. If you want to sound like a true New Yorker, confidence is key. Whether you’re grabbing a bodega sandwich at 3 a.m. or dodging slow walkers in Times Square, these phrases will help you navigate the city like a pro.
And remember, when in doubt, just hit them with a “Yerrr!”
