Breaking News: Oxford Dictionary Includes Japa, Yahoo Boy, Adire, and More in Latest Update

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED), one of the most esteemed references for the English language, has added 22 Nigerian words and expressions in its latest update, a significant nod to Nigeria’s rich cultural and linguistic heritage.

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This milestone showcases the growing global influence of Nigerian English, drawing attention to its vibrant blend of Pidgin, urban slang, and traditional phrases.

Among the 500 new entries are familiar Nigerian terms like “japa,” “Yahoo boy,” “419,” “adire,” “yarn dust,” and “agbero,” reflecting Nigeria’s unique societal dynamics. Click for proof – latest updated OED version to see the new words and their pronunciation and meaning.

The update was announced by Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian linguist and consultant to the OED, on LinkedIn. He expressed his excitement about the recognition of Nigeria’s creativity and culture through these inclusions:

“I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has officially published its latest updates, featuring an amazing collection of Nigerian English words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians. This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also provided their pronunciations!”

Here’s the full list of words added, which now have official definitions on the OED website:

• 419, Abi, Adire, Agbero, Area boy, Cross-carpet, Cross-carpeting, Eba, Edo, Gele, Jand (noun/verb), Janded, Japa (noun/verb), Kanuri, Kobo, Naija, Suya, Yahoo, Yahoo boy, Yarn dust

These words span various aspects of Nigerian life:

• Modern trends: “Japa” (to flee) and “Yahoo boy” (internet fraudster).
• Traditional heritage: “Adire” (indigo-dyed cloth) and “Gele” (a headwrap).
• Everyday life: “Eba” (a staple food made from cassava) and “Kobo” (a currency unit).

This update is a testament to Nigeria’s linguistic creativity and its role in shaping global English. The OED regularly revises its entries to reflect evolving language trends and cultural nuances worldwide.

For definitions and pronunciations of these newly added words, visit the OED website.