/əˈrɪs.toʊ/ Definition: ARISTO is a Nigerian Pidgin English term used to describe a sugar daddy—an older, usually wealthy man who financially supports a younger woman in exchange for companionship or romantic favors. The term reflects a cultural phenomenon often discussed in Nigerian society, particularly in urban areas and among young people. ARISTO refers to a sugar daddy,...Read More
/ˈa.sa/ Definition: ASA is a Nigerian Pidgin English term used to describe a beautiful or attractive young woman. Originating from the Igbo language, where “Àsà” means beauty or a beautiful woman, the word has become a popular way to compliment women in Nigerian culture. It is widely used in casual conversations, music, and entertainment. ASA refers to...Read More
/a.ʃa.wo/ Definition: ASHAWO is a Nigerian Pidgin English term used to refer to a prostitute or, more broadly, a sexually promiscuous person. Originating from the Yoruba phrase “A Ṣà Wó,” meaning “to look around” or “to wander,” the word reflects the movement of sex workers seeking clients. It is widely used in Nigeria and other West...Read More
/æˈsuːn/ Definition: ASUN is a traditional Nigerian dish made from spicy grilled goat meat, cut into small pieces, and tossed in a fiery pepper sauce. Originating from the Yoruba people of Ondo State, Nigeria, ASUN is a flavorful delicacy often served at celebrations, parties, and social gatherings. Its bold, spicy taste and smoky aroma make it...Read More
/a.wʊf/ Definition: AWOOF is a lively Nigerian Pidgin term used to describe something given for free—whether a gift, promo, or unexpected bonus. It captures the excitement around freebies while often carrying a playful warning about potential hidden catches. AWOOF: A free item, giveaway, or no-cost offer Synonyms: Freebie, dash (free gift), promo, handout, bonus Antonyms: Paid item, purchase, expense,...Read More
/ˈa.za/ Definition: AZA is a Nigerian Pidgin English term used to refer to a bank account number. It is commonly used in informal conversations, especially when requesting money transfers or discussing financial transactions. The term has gained popularity with the rise of mobile banking and digital finance in Nigeria. AZA refers to a bank account number, often...Read More
/bɑː/ Definition: BA is a Northern Nigerian Pidgin word used as a tag question meaning “isn’t it?” or “is it?” It’s added to the end of statements to seek confirmation or agreement, similar to “right?” in English. The Northern Nigerian Pidgin word “BA” is a small but powerful part of everyday conversation in the region. Acting like the English “right?” or “isn’t...Read More
/ˈbɑː.bɑː/ Definition: BABA is a versatile Nigerian term used to address elderly men, father figures, or respected individuals. It conveys respect, authority, and sometimes admiration for someone’s status or style. BABA: A term for an elder, father, or respected man Synonyms: Elder, papa, grandpa, oga (boss), big man Antonyms: Pikin (child), boy, youth, smallie Listen to how “BABA” is...Read More
/ˈbɑːbɑː ˈiːdʒɛbuː/ Definition: BABA IJEBU is Nigeria’s most popular illegal lottery game, where players bet on numbers for a chance to win cash prizes. It operates through local agents across streets and markets, with daily draws that attract millions of hopeful gamblers. Every day, millions play hoping to “strike” big, despite its illegal status. The game...Read More
/ˌbæbɑːˈlɑːwoʊ/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, BABALAWO refers to a traditional spiritual healer, also known as a native doctor or witch doctor. The BABALAWO serves as a spiritual intermediary, offering solutions through divination, herbal medicine, and ancestral knowledge. Synonyms: “Traditional healer”, “Herbalist” Antonyms: “Medical doctor”, “Pastor”, “Alfa“ (Muslim cleric) Hear how native speakers pronounce BABALAWO in the video below. Usage Examples: Informal: “My BABALAWO...Read More
