“High Key” These New York Slangs Are Worth Knowing

When in New York, take the slang expressions you hear around you and take the cannoli too. Don’t leave anything behind. Well, maybe leave the trash in the bin. That’s it. Otherwise, take everything with you because one of the best things that a place like New York can give you is a shoebox of memories.

Generally, you think of New York as this kaleidoscope of movie scenes that you’ve already seen. From Central Park to the steps of the Met to the yellow cabs passing to the orange leaves falling… hmmm, yep those have already been depicted in like almost all of the movies and shows set in the city that never sleeps.

But what you might not be familiar with is New York slang. Hah no, I’m not talking about “cawfee” when referring to a hot cup of coffee or “dawwg” when referring to a cute dog because those are just words said in the distinctive New York accent. I’m talking about words and phrases that many New Yorkers use when talking about something. Let's find out.

• The City: Specifically referring to Manhattan
• Bop: A very good song
• Yeah nah: No
• Nah yah: Yes
• No cap: Not lying / for real
• B and T: Bridge and tunnel
• Low key: To describe something that is not obvious
• High key: To describe something very obvious
• Mad: Another term for "very"
• Brick: To describe something very cold
• Whip: A term for an expensive car
• B: A term of endearment for a friend
• Mack: To flirt with someone
• Bread/Cheddar: Money
• Wavy: To describe something very cool
• Buggin: Another way of saying "are you crazy"
• Pop off: An emotional outburst
• Bucktown: Brooklyn
• My b: Another way to say "my bad"
• Mint: Something in perfect condition
• Dope/Fire/Sick: Something amazing or cool
• The Burg: Williamsburg
• The Park: Central Park
• FiDi: Financial District
• SoHo: South of Houston Street