Malegeni is a slang term used in Zambia to refer to a catapult or a slingshot. It is typically a Y-shaped wooden branch with rubber bands attached, used to shoot small stones or pellets.
Example
The politician waved a malegeni during the rally to make a symbolic statement against the government.
Directly translates to: We are eating cotton. This is a statement said when you feel that you've dressed to impress or you dress nicely in general.
A widely used noun and verb for an outdoor ‘barbecue’ where meat is cooked over a fire or coal. A braai is a popular social event in South Africa and even has its own dedicated public holiday, known as National Braai Day, which coincides with Heritage Day celebrated annually on September 24.
Example
Let's go buy some beer and some meat for tonight's braai.
Bhuti is a Xhosa word for big brother or just to refer to an older man.
Example
I’ll see you tomorrow, bhuti.
Example
The kwanza was introduced in 1977 after independence from Portugal.
Jollofina is a name given to South African women who are dating Nigerian men.
Example
She has all this money because she's dating Jollof boys. She's a Jollofina.
Hierso is a South African slang term that means "Here", "Right here". It is taken from the Afrikaans language.
Example
"I'll be hierso goseng, wa nkolota" - Khuli Chana in No More Hunger
A racist slur used to refer to black people in South Africa. It is shortened from Kaffir.
Example
It is a crime to use the K-word in South Africa.
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