There are many words and expressions within patios that are of African origin, the majority being “Akan” which is a Ethnicity coming from the Ghana region(Gold Coast) . During slavery, many people of the Akan Ethnicity were taken to Jamaica, so their language, religion and culture play a major role in the formation of the Jamaican culture. Here are some Jamaican Patois words that have African origins.

Check out these common Jamaican Patois Acronyms that are often used while texting. Examples include "Dwl - Dead wid laugh", "Shm - Shake mi head" etc...

One of the most popular swear words in Jamaica. Bumbo means bottom, claat is the Jamaican pronunciation of cloth. "Bumboclaat" literally refers to either menstrua...

“Baby! Gad know seh yuh deh yah? Caw yuh must be a Angel „ English Translation: Baby! Does God know that you’re here? Because you must be an Angel “Baby, you're the patty to my coco bread. „

"Mi rate yuh and ting but…" English Translation: I like you and everything but… "Mi cyaah duh dis nuh muh, mi dun"- English Translation: "I can’t do this anymore, I’m done"

Below is a list of Jamaican Patois words you can use to expand your vocabulary and practice making conversations in patois. Stush - English Translation: Stuck up, Definition - Slang term for someone that acts superior, stuck up, conceited etc…