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Popular Jamaican Patois Words
Explore the most searched Jamaican words and phrases.
Pronunciation: wah gwaan
What’s going on? / How are you?
Pronunciation: eye-ri
Feeling good, peaceful, or content.
Pronunciation: bum-bo-claat
A strong Jamaican expletive used to express powerful emotion.
Pronunciation: mi deh yah
I’m here / I’m doing okay.
Pronunciation: big up
Respect, praise, or congratulations.
Pronunciation: lik-kle more
See you later.
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Each entry includes a pronunciation guide, its English meaning, and an example showing how the word or phrase may be used in conversation.
Jamaican Patois Word
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Pronunciation
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English Meaning
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Real-Life Example
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Jamaican Patois Has Different Spellings
Jamaican Patois is primarily a spoken language, so the same word may appear with different spellings. For example, you may see bumboclaat, or bumbaclaat. Where helpful, this dictionary will include common spelling variations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Jamaican Patois Dictionary FAQs
Learn more about Jamaican Patois, pronunciation, spelling, and how to use this dictionary.
What is Jamaican Patois?
Jamaican Patois is a language spoken throughout Jamaica and by Jamaican communities around the world. It developed from English and several West African languages, with additional influences from other languages.
How is “Patois” pronounced?
In Jamaica, Patois is commonly pronounced “patwa.”
Why do Jamaican Patois words have different spellings?
Jamaican Patois has traditionally been used more often in speech than in writing. As a result, people may spell the same word differently based on how it sounds. This dictionary includes common spelling variations where helpful.
Can I search for English meanings in the dictionary?
Yes. The search bar checks Jamaican Patois words, English meanings, pronunciations, categories, and example sentences.
Are all Jamaican Patois words appropriate to use?
No. Some Jamaican Patois words are offensive, vulgar, or inappropriate in formal situations. Strong language will be clearly marked so readers can understand the context before using it.
Will more words be added to the dictionary?
Yes. The dictionary will continue to expand with additional Jamaican Patois words, phrases, pronunciation guides, spelling variations, and usage examples.