top of page
Writer's pictureEditorial

10 Scouse Slang Words You Need To Know If You Plan On Studying At Uni In Liverpool — From 'Boss' To 'Baltic'

Updated: Nov 11

10 Essential Scouse Slang Words You Will Hear If You Are Coming To Study In The Liverpool City Region This September

Liverpool, a city known for its large and ever-growing student population, rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its distinctive language filled with a unique vocabulary that you will naturally want to learn about.


If you're a student who's just moving to Liverpool, or if you're just eager to understand the local Scouse lingo for when you visit, we've got you covered with this handy list of Liverpool words you need to know to get through your first semester at Uni! in Liverpool


The University term is just getting underway and you will be wanting to settle into Liverpool as if you were a local, here are some essential Scouse slang to get you started.


Here are 10 Scouse slang words that will help you navigate the streets of this bustling major UK city:

  1. "Wool" (Current Day Usage - the version you will use) - Starting off with a modern classic that has seen its contemporary definition enjoy widespread adoption of its use by many locals and students alike – calling someone a "wool". This term is a shortened version of the name "woolyback", it is a nickname that playfully refers to people from just outside of Liverpool. However, it is particularly used to refer to those from nearby areas such as the Wirral or St Helens which are in close proximity to the city, and part of the Liverpool City Region and the County of Merseyside, but not officially part of the City of Liverpool, especially because they don't have the now-famous Liverpool Council-issued Purple Wheelie Bins. If you hear someone getting called a "wool", it likely means they're from Merseyside and not Liverpool.

  2. "Boss" - An essential word in the Scouse vocabulary, "boss" is used to describe something excellent or really impressive. Whether it's a person, an event, or just about anything positive, calling it "boss" is the highest form of praise that you can give.

  3. "Sound" - Similar to "boss", "sound" is another expression of approval. If someone says you're sound, it means you're trustworthy, reliable, or just generally a good person that they like to be around. When Liverpudlians describe something as "sound," they are expressing approval or satisfaction.

  4. "Our Kid" - A term of endearment for a sibling or a close friend. Referring to someone as "our kid" emphasizes a strong bond and close friendship.

  5. "Geg in" - Time to join the conversation! "Geg in" means to intervene or get involved, generally unexpectedly. If you're invited to geg in, it's an opportunity to join the fun.

  6. "Cob on" - Feeling a bit moody or upset? You might be said to have a "cob on." It's a signal to those around you to approach with care or maybe even offer a friendly gesture.

  7. "Bifter" - Need a smoke break? In Liverpool, you'll hear someone asking for a "bifter" when they crave a cigarette.

  8. "Blert" - An affectionate term for someone acting foolish or saying something silly. If your friend makes an amusing yet slightly nonsensical comment, playfully call them a "blert."

  9. "Going the Ozzy" - A term used to refer to the hospital. If someone is taking a trip to "the ozzy", they're going the hospital. This usage is unique to Liverpool and its surrounding areas. For example, if someone in Liverpool says, "I'm off to the Ozzy," it means they are going to the hospital.

  10. "Baltic" - Describing extremely cold weather. If someone says it's "baltic" outside, you'll want to bundle up to stay warm.

Comments


bottom of page