Every part of the world has its own slang, but because the San Francisco Bay Area has such a mix of cultures (and a mix of country and city life), its slang is exceptionally interesting. How many of these words do you know?
San Francisco Bay Area Slang
415
Definition: San Francisco. 415 is the original area code for San Francisco, and no new 415 numbers will be issued. If you have a 415 number, then you establish yourself as a real local.
Example: This is a real 415 party. I think everyone here is originally from the Bay.
Bootsy
Definition: Bad, gross.
Example: What a bootsy restaurant. I will never eat here again.
Fasho
Definition: A response meaning “yes” or “okay.”
Example: “I’ll pick you up at 7.” “Fasho.”
Example: “Can I have some of your burrito?” “Fasho.”
Hella
Definition: “Really.”
Example: Your shirt is hella cool.
Hyphy
Definition: Short for “hyperactive.” This word was made popular by an Oakland rapper; today, it is used to describe things that are high energy.
Example: The kids got really hyphy after they ate candy.
The City
Definition: San Francisco.
Example: We are spending the weekend in The City.
The Cuts
Definition: An area far away, usually in the suburbs.
Example: They got married and moved to the cuts.
The Town
Definition: Oakland.
Example: My roommate is from The Town but now we live together in The City.
Stunners/Stunnas/Stunna shades
Definition: Sunglasses.
Example: Nice stunners. Where did you get them?
Swoop
Definition: To pick someone up.
Example: I’ll swoop you at 7, OK?
Do you want to learn more about living like a local in the San Francisco Bay Area? Check out our article The 5 Most Instagrammed Places in SF to see some of the most popular places in The City. To learn some more slang, read our article California Beach Slang. Since you’re so close to Silicon Valley, why not learn some technology-related slang with our article Technology Slang + Exploring Silicon Valley?
Photos from Pixabay.