An exclamation used to express agreement, affirmation, or to call for attention — rooted in hip-hop culture.
A cool way of saying 'that's true!' or 'hey, listen!' — used a lot in old-school hip-hop.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
Used as an exclamation to express strong agreement or affirmation.
""That concert was absolutely incredible." "Word up, best night of the year.""
"Word up, everybody say, when you hear the call you've got to get it underway."
— Cameo, 'Word Up!', 1986.
Used to call for attention or signal that something important is about to be said.
"Word up, everybody — the party's moving to the roof."
Originated in African-American English and was popularised by 1980s–90s hip-hop culture. Used as an interjection meaning 'that's right', 'I agree', or 'listen up'. Widely considered dated or retro by younger speakers today. Immortalised by the song 'Word Up!' by Cameo (1986). More familiar in North American English.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "word up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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