Oxford Dictionary Adds Japa, 419, Yahoo, 17 other Nigerian Words [Full List]

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has expanded its vocabulary by adding 20 Nigerian words and expressions in its latest update.

The newly added entries include widely used terms such as “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi.” These words reflect the growing global appreciation for Pidgin English, street slang, and cultural nuances unique to Nigeria.

Some terms, like “japa” and “jand,” are included in the dictionary as nouns and verbs, showcasing their versatile usage. Pronunciation guides have also been incorporated to help non-Nigerians articulate these words correctly.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant for the OED, shared the exciting news on LinkedIn, expressing his pride in contributing to the dictionary’s latest update.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP 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,” Ugwuanyi wrote.

He added, “This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their #pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my #voice bringing these words to life.”

The OED defines some of the newly added words as follows:

Japa: “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries (esp. those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.”

Agbero: “a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout, typically at car parks and bus stops, collecting money from passengers and drivers, and ushering passengers onto vehicles.”

Yahoo: “fraud perpetrated on the internet, esp. involving requests for advance payment for services or products that are ultimately never provided. Usually reduplicated, as yahoo yahoo.”

Here is the full list of newly added Nigerian words:

419

Abi

Adire

Agbero

Area boy

Cross-carpet

Cross-carpeting

Eba

Edo

Gele

Jand (noun, verb)

Janded (adjective)

Japa (noun, verb)

Kanuri

Kobo

Naija

Suya

Yahoo

Yahoo boy

Yarn Dust