Forget the latest viral phrases from TikTok. A surprising linguistic trend is sweeping across Britain, as once-forgotten regional slang words are staging a dramatic comeback in everyday conversation.
From Local Dialect to National Vernacular
New analysis from the language learning platform Preply has uncovered a significant spike in the use of outdated slang terms between 2000 and 2022. The data reveals that these words, once confined to specific areas, are now spreading into the mainstream, enriching the national vocabulary.
The standout revival is the word 'lass', a Yorkshire term for a girl or young woman, which has seen an astonishing 211.6% increase in usage. It is closely followed by 'nowt' (meaning 'nothing' in Northern England), up by 136.44%, and 'scran' (a colloquialism for food), which has risen by 113.42%.
Other terms joining the resurgence include 'owt' (Northern English for 'anything'), up 72.45%, and Cockney slang 'gaff' (meaning house), which has increased by 14.55%.
Pop Culture and a Search for Identity Fuel the Trend
Experts suggest the revival is driven by a blend of pop culture influence and a growing interest in regional heritage. Preply spokesperson Ann Pyshna pointed to figures like Manchester rapper Aitch and streamer Angry Ginge, whose use of Mancunian slang on shows like I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! has captured national attention.
'The reappearance of traditional regional slang demonstrates a growing interest in heritage and local culture,' Ms Pyshna explained. 'It is not only creating a sense of community... but also capturing the attention of those outside these regions.'
She emphasised that this is more than a passing fad. 'As more people embrace the quirky charm and unique humour that come with these words, we can expect to see the trend continue to gain momentum.'
Brits Vote to Bring Back Beloved Slang
This analysis follows closely on the heels of separate research by WordTips, which asked people which outdated British slang terms they most wanted to resurrect.
That poll found that the classic expletive 'bloody' was the most missed word. It was followed by a list of affectionate favourites:
- Chuffed
- Bugger all
- Bruv
- Sod off
- Curtain twitcher
Other honourable mentions included 'chockablock', 'hank marvin' (meaning very hungry), and the perennial 'fit'. In contrast, the word 'canny' was found to be the least popular slang term among respondents.
Whether sparked by nostalgia, television, or social media, the evidence is clear: Britain's rich tapestry of regional dialects is being rewoven into the national conversation, ensuring these once-endangered words have a vibrant future.
