The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has added Nigerian words including “nyash,” “mammy market,” and “amala” to its latest update, marking a significant recognition of Nigerian English and West African cultural expressions on the global linguistic stage.
The update, released as part of the OED’s December 2025–January 2026 revision, includes over 500 new words, phrases, and meanings, alongside revisions to more than 1,000 existing entries, with a strong focus on English as used in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
What the Newly Added Nigerian Words Mean
According to definitions published by the Oxford English Dictionary, the newly recognised Nigerian terms reflect everyday language, food culture, and social structures familiar across the country.
Meaning of “Nyash”
The word “nyash” is defined as a slang term referring to a person’s buttocks, particularly used in informal Nigerian English and popular culture.
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Meaning of “Mammy Market”
“Mammy market” is described as a market, traditionally run by women, commonly found in Nigerian military barracks and later adopted in youth service camps and institutional settings. The term reflects a long-standing economic and social feature of Nigerian communal life.
Meaning of “Amala”
“Amala” is defined as a type of Nigerian staple food made from yam, cassava, or unripe plantain flour, typically prepared into a soft dough and eaten with soup. The dish is especially associated with southwestern Nigeria but is widely consumed across the country.
Other Nigerian and West African Words Included
In addition to nyash, mammy market, and amala, the OED update also incorporates several other Nigerian and West African expressions that have gained widespread usage:
Abeg – an interjection expressing appeal, emphasis, or mild frustration
Biko – an Igbo-derived word used to mean “please”
Moi Moi – a steamed bean pudding common in Nigerian cuisine
Ghana Must Go – a large checkered plastic travel bag
Afrobeats – a music genre originating from West Africa with global influence
These entries reflect how local expressions have crossed borders through migration, music, food, and digital culture.
Why the Update Matters
Linguists say the inclusion of Nigerian words in the Oxford English Dictionary highlights the evolving nature of English as a global language and acknowledges the role of non-Western societies in shaping modern usage.
For Nigeria, the update represents:
International recognition of Nigerian English as a legitimate and influential variety
Cultural validation of everyday language used by millions
Growing global interest in African food, music, and social expressions
The OED has increasingly expanded its coverage of World Englishes in recent years, moving beyond traditional British and American usage.
Nigerians React Online
The announcement has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians celebrating the moment as long overdue. Users described the update as proof that Nigerian slang, food, and social terms have achieved global relevance.
What Nigerian word do you think should be next?
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