#bajanisms

A remarkably refreshing and fun dive into the intricacies of Barbadian vernacular. 

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The Ultimate Bajan Handbook

The native language of the Barbadian people is English. The ‘Queen’s English’, to be exact. Yet, if one were to travel across Barbados, one would quickly notice something more prevalent among the people—our own rhyme and rhythm, our own Bajan Dialect.

#BAJANISMS is the only guide you need to connect more closely with Barbados and the Bajans, through language.

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BAJAN

Pronounced Bay-jun

A Peek

obzocky

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[ɒbzɒki] · adj
Awkward or abnormal in appearance.

Dah cake you bake come out real obzocky.
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gree

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[gri] · verb
To be amicable and generally friendly with someone.

Wait! De two ah dem doan gree? All dis time I thought dem greeing.
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lickrish

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[lɪkrɪʃ ~ [lɪkrʌʃ] · adj
Gluttonous and greedy when it comes to food.

Stop beggin’ yuh too lickrish.
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MAHALIA CUMMINS

Mahalia is an award winning songwriter and choreographer, dancer, plant mom and at-home visual artist.

She is best known for her effortless and electrifying performances as lead vocalist of the stand-out Bajan band, 2 Mile Hill who have flown the Barbadian flag at shows across the Caribbean, US and Europe. 

IN THE BOOK

Glossary

The most comprehensive list of Bajan words and expressions to ensure you become a master.

Retro and Vintage

Some terms are no longer in circulation, but we dig them up from time to time to use ironically or for fun and nostalgia.

Pronunciation

All the essential tips for sounding like an authentic Bajan.

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