/mɛs/
Definition:
In Nigerian Pidgin English, MESS specifically refers to the act of passing gas or flatulence—what is commonly known in standard English as farting. Unlike in standard usage, where “MESS” can mean disorder or chaos, in Nigerian parlance, when someone says “Who MESS?” they are referring directly to someone who farted.
The word carries both humorous and mildly offensive undertones, depending on the context. It’s often used among friends or in casual settings, typically followed by laughter, complaints, or playful accusations. For example:
“Abeg who MESS for here? The thing strong die!” (Please, who farted here? It’s really bad!)
In Nigerian homes, schools, and even in public transport like Danfos or Keke napeps, the term is part of everyday vocabulary. It is often treated jokingly, though in more formal or polite settings, euphemisms may be used instead.
It’s important to note that “MESS” in this sense is strictly Nigerian and West African Pidgin slang and may not carry the same meaning in other English-speaking regions.
- Synonyms: “Fart,” “Gas,” “Pum”
- Antonyms: “Fresh air,” “Silence,” “Hold body,”
Listen to how MESS is pronounced in this short video below.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: “Na who MESS for this room? Abeg open window!”
- Formal: “Someone passed gas in the room and it became uncomfortable.”
- Idiomatic: “Your MESS fit wake dead body, no be small!”
Cultural Context:
Origin:
The Nigerian Pidgin use of “MESS” comes from the English word “mess,” originally meaning disorder or chaos. Over time, it became associated with the disruptive and embarrassing nature of farting, especially in enclosed spaces.
It is believed that the semantic shift occurred as a humorous metaphor. Farting, though a natural biological process, is often regarded as socially inappropriate, especially when loud or foul-smelling. Because of the uncomfortable situation it creates, it came to be labeled as a “MESS.”
This usage has since become embedded in West African street culture, comedy, and everyday banter. In stand-up routines or skits, you’ll often hear characters exclaiming “Na who MESS?!” as a punchline, reinforcing the comedic side of the term.
Though informal, the word is universally understood in Nigeria and used across different age groups, from children to adults. It’s also a word that can unite a room in either laughter or complaints, depending on the intensity of the “offense.”
Regional Usage:
Across Nigeria, from Lagos to Kano, Port Harcourt to Enugu, “MESS” is a widely understood term referring to farting. Whether you’re in a public bus, a school classroom, or a family gathering, the question “Who MESS?” cuts across regional and ethnic lines, instantly understood by all.
The usage isn’t limited to any one ethnic group. In Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and other indigenous cultures, local words exist for farting, but “MESS” has emerged as the default street-term, thanks to the ubiquity of Nigerian Pidgin English.
In Ghana and other parts of West Africa, similar expressions exist, though “MESS” may not be used in the same way. Nigerian pop culture, movies, and social media have further solidified the word’s reach and acceptability across informal contexts.
In rural settings and urban centers alike, “MESS” is part of the playful banter that makes Nigerian conversations lively and expressive. It’s the kind of word that, even when embarrassing, can spark shared laughter and lighten the mood.
Drop your funniest “MESS” story in the comments! Use the word “MESS” in a sentence and let’s have a good laugh.