A-Z Guide to Scouse Slang: Navigating Liverpool's Local Lingo With An Alphabet Of 26 Words & Phrases

A-Z Guide to Scouse Slang —Navigating The Liverpool City Region's Local Lingo With An Alphabet Of Words & Phrases You'll Hear When You Visit

The Pier Head in Liverpool (Credit: The Liverpudlian/This image is an original piece of work by The Liverpudlian Team).

In this article you will embark on a linguistic journey through the vibrant language of Liverpool with our A-Z guide to Scouse slang.

Whilst this would be second nature to any locals, so much so they say these slang words without even realising they're necessarily localised or even slang terms, a tourist might need a bit of help!

From "Antwacky" to "Z-Cars," immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Liverpudlian expressions that make the city's language as unique as its culture.

Overview

As you get to know Liverpool more, you'll be able to understand the more intrinsic slang used within this A-Z guide to Scouse slang, you'll find yourself seamlessly blending into the brilliant, warm and humorous local culture. From deciphering if someone is a plazzy Scouser, to enjoying going to the shops to find some boss clobber, and one of the many restaurants to get some scran. Let the unique language of Liverpool become your linguistic compass in The World in One City.

A - "Antwacky"

"Antwacky" is a term used in Scouse slang to describe something or someone as old-fashioned or out of date. It implies a sense of being behind the times or not in line with current trends. For example, if someone refers to a piece of clothing or a style as "antwacky," they are suggesting that it's not in vogue or fashionable. It's a colorful way of expressing the idea that something is a bit outdated in the context of Liverpool's local dialect.

B - "Boss"

In Scouse, "boss" doesn't refer to someone in charge. Instead, it's a term to express approval or admiration. If something is excellent, it's simply "boss."

C - "Clobber"

Your outfit or clothing is your "clobber" in Scouse slang. Make sure your clobber is on point when exploring Liverpool!

D - "Divvy"

Calling someone a "divvy" is a playful way of suggesting they're a bit foolish or silly. It's all in good humor!

E - "Eeee"

In Scouse slang, "eeee" is an exclamation often used to express surprise, excitement, or emphasis. It's similar to saying "wow" or "oh my word". The number of "e"s can vary based on the intensity of the emotion being conveyed, and it's commonly used in informal conversation in Liverpool.

G - "Geg in"

To "geg in" is to interfere or get involved in someone else's business. Be mindful not to geg in where you're not wanted!

H - "Heavy Salad"

This newer Scouse slang words refers to a situation or something that is particularly difficult or trying — "heavy". The term adds a sense of humor to expression with the addition to the world salad being included.

I - "In bulk"

In Scouse slang, saying "in bulk" means having a good laugh. So, if someone mentions they were laughing in bulk, it just means they had a really good time and found something hilarious.

J - "Jarg"

When something is fake or of poor quality, it's "jarg." Be cautious when shopping to avoid buying anything jarg!

K - "Kidda"

In Scouse, "kidda" is a term of endearment for a friend or mate. It's commonly used among locals to refer to each other.

L - "La"

A shortened version of "lad". "La" is another way Scousers affectionately address each other.

M - "Mingin"

If something is "mingin," it means it's disgusting or unpleasant. It's an informal term commonly used in Liverpool and its surrounding areas to express strong disapproval or distaste for something or someone.

O - "Our Kid"

Similar to "kid," "our kid" is a way to refer to a close friend or family member. It's a warm and familiar term used within tight-knit circles.

P - "Plazzy Scouser"

A "plazzy Scouser" refers to someone who is not genuinly from the City of Liverpool though pretends to be.

It is also worth noting that both "plazzy Scouser" and the term "wool" (see W) share a common theme of suggesting inauthenticity. While "plazzy Scouser" refers to someone attempting to mimic a true Liverpudlian, "wool" is another slang term often used in Liverpool to describe individuals from the surrounding areas who may also not be considered genuine Scousers.

Both expressions playfully imply that the person is not a native of Liverpool but is trying to adopt the local identity or accent. "Plazzy Scouser" specifically refers to someone imitating being a Scouser, while "wool" is a broader term used to refer to individuals from the wider Liverpool City Region outside the Liverpool in general.

Q - "Queen"

In Liverpool slang, calling someone a "queen" is a term of endearment or camaraderie among friends. It's used in a friendly and informal manner to address someone, similar to terms like mate or buddy but generally amongst a group of women. It's part of the local colloquialism in Liverpool.

S - "Sound"

"Sound" is a versatile term in Scouse slang. It can mean good, okay, or reliable. If someone is described as sound, they're dependable and trustworthy.

T - "Ta-ra"

In Scouse slang, "ta-ra" is a casual and informal way of saying goodbye. It's commonly used in Liverpool and surrounding areas as a friendly farewell.

U - "Up the Duff"

If a lady is "up the duff," it means she's pregnant. This playful phrase adds a touch of humor to the situation.

W - "Wool"

Referring to someone from the wider Liverpool City Region, or Merseyside Region, although primarily directed at people from the Wirral. "Wool" is a term often used by many Scousers to playfully tease their neighbors for being from the surrounding areas and across the River Mersey.

Y - "Youse"

A plural form of "you," "youse" is commonly used in Scouse speech when addressing a group of people.

Z - "Z-Cars"

Ending our A-Z journey with a classic. "Z-Cars" refers to the name of a popular police TV show of the same name, with the term being another reference to the police.