In the UK, language was used to express unique expressions and to describe feelings or emotions. Slangs add a unique flavor to the language and it reflects the culture. In the British language, some of the slang terms originated from different regions. So let’s start and get ready to explore all popular slang terms starting with the letter “H” and let’s check how they are used in daily conversations.
1. What Does “Half Cut” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Half Cut”
In British slang, “half-cut” refers to someone who is moderately intoxicated means who consumes a small amount of alcohol. It implies such a state where someone is noticeably tipsy but not completely drunk. The term is commonly used in casual conversations to describe someone who feels the effects of alcohol.
Origin of “Half Cut”
The term “half-cut” origin is unclear, but it is believed that it comes from the idea of being partially intoxicated or noticeable by alcohol. It likely emerged within social contexts to describe someone who has consumed enough alcohol to be noticeably affected.
Synonyms for “Half Cut”
Some of the synonyms of half-cut are given below:
Tipsy: This word was used for someone who is slightly unsteady due to the use of alcohol.
- Usage Example: “She feeling tipsy after a few drinks.”
Merry: This term was also used to describe the state of being slightly drunk due to alcohol.
- Usage Example: “They were all feeling quite merry after the celebrations.”
Buzzed: This informal term is used to describe the meaning of mild level of intoxication.
- Usage Example: “He was buzzed but still able to have a conversation.”
Usage Examples of “Half Cut”
- “He had a few beers at the pub and was feeling half-cut.”
- “I don’t want to drive; I’m a bit half-cut after the party.”
- “She’s always fun to be around when she’s half-cut.”
2. What Does “Hamilton” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hamilton”
“Hamilton” in British slang refers to a £10 note. It was due to the historical figure “Alexander Hamilton” who appears on the US $10 bill. It is commonly used in informal contexts when referring to money or a specific amount of cash.
Origin of “Hamilton”
As for the meaning of the term, it’s shown that the term “Hamilton” originates with the reference to the £10 note. The slang term “Hamilton” refers to a $10 bill in American currency and originates from the portrait of Alexander Hamilton. He was the first Secretary of the Treasury, featured on the bill.
Synonyms for “Hamilton”
Some synonyms used for Hamilton are:
Tenner: This term is a straightforward slang term for a £10 note.
- Usage Example: “Can you lend me a tenner? I’ll pay you back tomorrow.”
Note: A very familiar term “Note” is a common term used for banknotes or paper money.
- Usage Example: “I only have a £20 note; can you give me change?”
Usage Examples of “Hamilton”
- “I found a Hamilton in my jacket pocket; lucky me!”
- “He paid for the drinks with a Hamilton and got change.”
- “Can you break a Hamilton? I need smaller bills.”
3. What Does “Having Banter” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Having Banter”
“Having banter” in British slang refers to lighthearted conversations or engaging with friends in a teasing manner. It also signifies lively and verbal interactions.
Origin of “Having Banter”
The term “banter” originates from Middle French and means “to jest.” In British slang, it was used to reflect friendly exchanges. It evolved from the word “banter,” which originally meant good-humoured but has come to specifically denote this kind of lively and enjoyable verbal interaction.
Synonyms for “Having Banter”
Some common synonyms for having bunter are below
Joking: This word refers to engaging in playful or humorous conversation.
- Usage Example: “We were joking around, having a good time.”
Teasing: As the term shows, this word is used for moderate teasing among friends.
- Usage Example: “They were teasing each other about their football teams.”
Chit-chat: Similar to the word chat, this informal term is used for casual and light conversations.
- Usage Example: “We were just having a bit of chit-chat over coffee.”
Usage Examples of “Having Banter”
- “We spent the evening having banter and laughing non-stop.”
- “He’s great to hang out with; we always have good banter.”
- “The office atmosphere is lively with everyone having banter.”
4. What Does “He Is a Dish” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “He Is a Dish”
In British slang, “he is a dish” is used for such a man, who is very attractive, handsome, or desirable. The term refers a person to an appealing dish or meal and highlights their physical attractiveness casually.
Origin of “He Is a Dish”
The term “dish” likely comes from the idea of someone who is well-presented or visually appealing.
The British slang term “he’s a dish” originated in the 1960s and 1970s and is used to describe a man who is attractive or good-looking.
Synonyms for “He Is a Dish”
The synonyms used instead of “he is a dish” are mentioned below:
Hottie: This informal term refers to someone who is attractive, especially physically.
- Usage Example: “She’s such a hottie; everyone’s got a crush on her.”
Stud: Stud was used to describe a man who is considered strong or attractive.
- Usage Example: “He’s a bit of a stud; all the ladies love him.”
Eye Candy: As the term shows, this phrase is used for someone who is pleasant to look at.
- Usage Example: “That new actor is total eye candy; he’s got looks and talent.”
Usage Examples of “He Is a Dish”
- “Have you seen the new guy at work? He’s a real dish.”
- “She introduced me to her boyfriend; I can see why she thinks he’s a dish.”
- “He’s always been a bit of a dish; no wonder he’s got admirers.”
5. What Does “Heck” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Heck”
“Heck” in British slang was used for an expression. The expression should be of surprise, mild shock, or something like that. It was similar to the word hell which conveys emotion less offensively.
Origin of “Heck”
The British slang term “heck” likely originated from the mild expression of surprise or disbelief. This was similar to “heck!” or “what the heck!”. It is believed to be a variation of the stronger term “hell” and is used to convey emotions or reactions in a less offensive way.
Synonyms for “Heck”
The synonyms for “heck” are described below:
Blimey: This slang word was an exclamation used to express a surprised feeling.
- Usage Example: “Blimey, I didn’t expect to see you here!”
Crikey: Another slang term used instead of “heck” is “crikey” and used to express amazement.
- Usage Example: “Crikey, that’s quite a story!”
Golly: This was an unpopular and old-fashioned term used to express wonder.
- Usage Example: “Golly, that’s impressive!”
Usage Examples of “Heck”
- “Heck, I forgot my wallet at home!”
- “Heck, that’s a lot of work to do in one day.”
- “Well, heck, I never thought I’d see the day!”
6. What Does “Henry” Mean in British Drug Slang?
Meaning of “Henry”
It’s a very popular British slang term that typically refers to a small bag or less amount of heroin. Moreover, it was used for the specific weight of the substance.
Origin of “Henry”
The term “Henry” originated from rhyming slang “heroin” and used as a code word for drugs. The term “Henry” originates from the 1960s and is used to refer to a person’s wallet particularly filled with money at that time.
Synonyms for “Henry”
The most popular synonyms of “Henry” are below:
Gear: This term is a general slang term for drugs and is mostly used to refer to heroin.
- Usage Example: “He was caught with a stash of gear in his pocket.”
Smack: This term specifically refers to heroin, especially when used intravenously.
- Usage Example: “He’s addicted to smack; it’s a serious problem.”
Junk: This informal term refers to drugs in general conversations including heroin.
- Usage Example: “They were arrested for possession of junk.”
Usage Examples of “Henry”
- “He was arrested for selling Henry on the streets.”
- “My mom found a bag of Henry in my pocket.”
- “The dealers were caught with a large quantity of Henry.”
7. What Does “Her Majesty’s Pleasure” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Her Majesty’s Pleasure”
This British slang term was used for someone, who’s in prison or also used in sentences as imprisonment. It specifically refers to a person who is locked up by the government.
Origin of “Her Majesty’s Pleasure”
This was a legal slang term used to refer to the power of crowns to release prisoners. The slang term “Her Majesty’s pleasure” means being in jail or prison. It comes from the idea of serving a sentence under the authority of the reigning monarch who is often referred to as “Her Majesty.”
Synonyms for “Her Majesty’s Pleasure”
The most common synonyms for “Her Majesty’s pleasure” are:
Behind Bars: This phrase mainly refers to being in prison.
- Usage Example: “He spent ten years behind bars for his crimes.”
Doing Time: This slang term was used to serve a prison sentence.
- Usage Example: “He’s doing time for his involvement in the robbery.”
Locked Up: This term is used to describe being confined in prison.
- Usage Example: “He got locked up for his part in the drug trade.”
Usage Examples of “Her Majesty’s Pleasure”
- “He was sentenced to five years at Her Majesty’s pleasure.”
- “She spent a year at Her Majesty’s pleasure before being released on parole.”
- “The criminals were all at Her Majesty’s pleasure for their crimes.”
8. What Does “Hobnocker” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hobnocker”
“Hobnocker” in British slang is a term used to describe someone who is “awkward” or “uncomfortable” in their movements. It gained some recognition from its use in the TV show “iCarly” where it was humorously presented as an insult.
Origin of “Hobnocker”
The term “hobnocker” originated from the playful combination of the terms “hobble” and “knock”. The British slang “hobnocker” does not have a widely recognized origin or meaning. It gained some attention from being used in the TV show “iCarly”. However, it is not a standard or widely understood term in British slang.
Synonyms for “Hobnocker”
The most common synonyms for “hobnocker” are:
Clumsy: This word describes someone who is awkward or uncomfortable in accidents.
- Usage Example: “He’s a bit clumsy; always knocking things over.”
Awkward: This term denotes someone who is not smooth in their movements.
- Usage Example: “She felt awkward at the party; she didn’t know anyone.”
Bumbling: This word is always used for someone who is “clumsy” in their actions.
- Usage Example: “He’s always bumbling around; he needs to be more careful.”
Usage Examples of “Hobnocker”
- “Watch your step; you’re such a hobnocker sometimes.”
- “He tripped and fell over; what a hobnocker!”
- “I felt like a total hobnocker trying to dance at the party.”
9. What Does “Hobo” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hobo”
Sometimes this word was used for beggars because they are homeless. But the British slang “hobo” mainly refers to a “homeless person” or those travellers, who visit the place to place in search of work or shelter.
Origin of “Hobo”
The British slang term “hobo” originated in the late 19th century in the United States and refers to a homeless person who travels from place to place in search of work or shelter. The term likely came from the Western American slang “hoe-boy,” meaning a migrant worker.
Synonyms for “Hobo”
Some synonyms term for “hobo” are:
Tramp: This term is used to describe a homeless person who travels from place to place.
- Usage Example: “The city has a shelter for tramps and homeless individuals.”
Vagrant: This word signifies someone who has no permanent home and walks without any aim.
- Usage Example: “He lived as a vagrant for years before finding stability.”
Drifter: This term refers to someone who moves from place to place without a fixed destination.
- Usage Example: “He’s a drifter, never staying in one place for long.”
Usage Examples of “Hobo”
- “He used to be a hobo, traveling across the country on trains.”
- “That home is sometimes frequented by hobos looking for shelter.”
- “My mom provides meals and support to homeless hobos.”
10. What Does “Hooky” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hooky”
“Hooky” in British slang refers to something “fake” or of “poor quality”. It was mostly used in Asian countries by its other similar meaning term “hukka” which means not genuine.
Origin of “Hooky”
The British slang term “hooky” originated from the Hindi word “hukka,” meaning “fake” or “not genuine.” It entered British English through the British colonial presence in India and is used to describe something illegal, or not legitimate.
Synonyms for “Hooky”
The most popular synonyms of “hooky” are defined below:
Fake: This word describes something that is not real, genuine, or authentic.
- Usage Example: “He bought a fake Rolex watch; it turned out to be hooky.”
Counterfeit: This term is used to describe something that is a copy of the original.
- Usage Example: “They were arrested for selling counterfeit goods.”
Shoddy: This word reflects the meaning of something of poor quality.
- Usage Example: “The product fell apart quickly; it was shoddy work.”
Usage Examples of “Hooky”
- “Be careful with that; it looks a bit hooky.”
- “He got ripped off with a hooky phone charger that stopped working after a week.”
- “They were caught selling hooky DVDs at the market.”
11. What Does “Horsey” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Horsey”
“Horsey” in British slang refers to someone who is passionate about or deeply involved in “equestrian” activities. As the term shows it was something related to interest in horses.
Origin of “Horsey”
The term “horsey” is derived from the word “horse” which means the connection with horses. It originates from the 1930s and likely developed within equestrian circles. Since it has been used more broadly to describe anyone with a keen interest in or passion for horses.
Synonyms for “Horsey”
Some of the most famous synonyms for “horsey” are:
Equestrian: This term refers to someone who is involved in horse riding or related activities.
- Usage Example: “She’s an equestrian; she competes in horse shows regularly.”
Equine: As the word reflects, this word describes things related to horses or horse riding.
- Usage Example: “The equine club organizes riding lessons for beginners.”
Horse Lover: This term was used for someone who has a strong fondness for horses.
- Usage Example: “She’s a true horse lover; she spends hours grooming her horses.”
Usage Examples of “Horsey”
- “She’s always been horsey; she started riding horses at a young age.”
- “The Horsey community organizes events and competitions throughout the year.”
- “He’s got a horsey background; his family has been involved in horse racing for generations.”
12. What Does “Hull” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hull”
In British slang, the term “Hull” refers to the “city of Hull” which is located in East Yorkshire, England. Additionally, “hull” can also refer to the hull of a ship, but this is not typically used as slang in British English.
Origin of “Hull”
The term “Hull” is referenced to the city’s name and is often used in regional or local contexts. The term is often used in football (soccer) to refer to the Hull City Association Football Club.
Synonyms for “Hull”
Common synonyms for the “hull” are described below:
City of Culture: This term was used for “Hull” as a designation of the UK because it was known as the City of Culture in 2017.
- Usage Example: “Hull has seen a cultural renaissance since being named City of Culture.”
Kingston upon Hull: This is the formal name of the city and is often used in official contexts.
- Usage Example: “Kingston upon Hull boasts a rich maritime history.”
Usage Examples of “Hull”
- “I visited Hull last summer; it’s a vibrant city with a lot to offer.”
- “Hull is known for its historic architecture and cultural attractions.”
- “People from Hull are often referred to as Hullensians.”
13. What Does “Hunna” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hunna”
“Hunna” in British slang is a shortened form of “hundred” and is mostly used in urban or informal contexts to refer to the number “100”.
Origin of “Hunna”
The British slang term “hunna” originated from the shortening of the word “hundred” which means one hundred pounds or a large amount of money in general. It’s commonly used in informal conversations, especially among young people, and in urban slang.
Synonyms for “Hunna”
The most famous synonyms for “hunna” are described below:
100: This is a numeric symbol used to represent the number one hundred.
- Usage Example: “The price is £100; we often write it as ‘100’.”
Century: This word reflects a period of one hundred years or a numerical unit of 100.
- Usage Example: “The building has stood for over a century; it’s over 100 years old.”
Usage Examples of “Hunna”
- “I got paid a hunna for the job; it was a good day’s work.”
- “There were over a hunna people at the concert last night.”
- “The shop sells sneakers for less than a hunna; it’s a great deal.”
14. What Does “Hench” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hench”
“Hench” in British slang is used for someone who is physically strong or muscular and well-built.
Origin of “Hench”
The term “hench” originated from the idea of someone being powerful, similar to a “henchman” or “bodyguard”. It is used to describe someone who is noticeably well-built in appearance.
Synonyms for “Hench”
Common synonyms term used instead of “hench” are:
Muscular: This word describes someone who has well-developed muscles and physical strength.
- Usage Example: “He’s been working out a lot; he’s looking muscular.”
Built: This term was used for someone who has a strong and solid physique.
- Usage Example: “He’s well-built; he could easily lift heavy objects.”
Buff: This informal term is used to describe someone who is muscular or physically fit.
- Usage Example: “He’s been hitting the gym hard; he’s getting buff.”
Usage Examples of “Hench”
- “Have you seen his arms? He’s hench!”
- “The bouncer at the club was hench; no one dared to mess with him.”
- “He’s been hitting the weights; he’s getting hench.”
15. What Does “Hoon” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hoon”
“Hoon” in British slang refers to someone who “drives aggressively” or at high speeds. People who are associated with drifting or rash driving might hear this word in a showy manner.
Origin of “Hoon”
The British slang term “hoon” originates from Australian and New Zealand English, where it refers to aggressive driving, especially in a dangerous manner. It is derived from the verb “to hoon,” meaning to drive or operate a vehicle at high speed.
Synonyms for “Hoon”
Some of the common recognizable synonyms for “hoon” are:
Reckless Driver: This term describes someone who drives without safety or rules.
- Usage Example: “He’s a reckless driver; he often speeds and takes risks.”
Speed Demon: This term was used for someone who drives very fast or aggressively.
- Usage Example: “Watch out for speed demons on the highway.”
Road Menace: This term was used for those who are in danger on the road due to their driving behaviour.
- Usage Example: “The police are cracking down on road menaces.”
Usage Examples of “Hoon”
- “He got a ticket for hooning; he needs to drive more responsibly.”
- “The neighborhood has problems with hoons speeding through residential areas.”
- “We are telling people about hoon driving danger.”
16. What Does “Hype” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hype”
“Hype” in British slang refers to excitement with regard to an event, a product, or a situation. It was initially referred to as promotional language used in advertising.
Origin of “Hype”
It originated from the urban culture of the 1980s and refers to excitement around something. It can also signify exaggeration excessive promotion or publicity surrounding a particular topic or person.
Synonyms for “Hype”
Some famous synonyms for “hype” are:
Excitement: This word describes a feeling of extreme happiness or eagerness.
- Usage Example: “There’s a lot of excitement about the new movie release.”
Anticipation: This term reflects a feeling of expectation about something to come.
- Usage Example: “The anticipation for the concert was palpable.”
Buzz: This informal term refers to excitement or energy surrounding an event or situation.
- Usage Example: “There’s a buzz in the air about the upcoming festival.”
Usage Examples of “Hype”
- “The hype for the new smartphone is incredible; everyone wants to get their hands on it.”
- “The event lived up to the hype; it was an amazing experience.”
- “Don’t believe all the hype; sometimes things are overrated.”
17. What Does “Hipster” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hipster”
“Hipster” in British slang refers to someone who follows trends or non-mainstream fashion culture and interests and styles.
Origin of “Hipster”
The term “hipster” originated from American English, where it initially referred to a subculture associated with independent music, fashion, and art.
Synonyms for “Hipster”
Commonly used synonyms instead of “hipster” are:
Trendy: This term describes someone who follows or sets trends in fashion or culture.
- Usage Example: “She’s always dressed in trendy clothes; she’s a bit of a hipster.”
Alternative: This word signifies someone who prefers unconventional styles and ideas.
- Usage Example: “He’s into alternative music and art; he’s a bit of a hipster.”
Indie: This term refers to someone who is interested in independent or underground music, films, and culture.
- Usage Example: “The indie scene attracts a lot of hipsters.”
Usage Examples of “Hipster”
- “He’s got a hipster vibe with his vintage clothes and love for indie music.”
- “The cafe is popular among hipsters for its artisanal coffee and quirky atmosphere.”
- “She’s not your typical hipster; she has her unique style.”
18. What Does “Hush Hush” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hush Hush”
“Hush hush” in British slang refers to something “secret” or not meant to be discussed openly. It was similar to hushing the birds means silencing them.
Origin of “Hush Hush”
The slang term “hush hush” originates from the English language and refers to keeping something secret or confidential. It is often used to describe information or activities that are meant to be kept undisclosed to the public or certain individuals.
Synonyms for “Hush Hush”
Some synonyms used instead of “hush-hush” are:
Confidential: This word describes something private, secret, or not meant for public knowledge.
- Usage Example: “We are having some confidential conversations.”
Secretive: This term is used for someone or something that keeps secrets or operates privately.
- Usage Example: “Girls are quite secretive about their boyfriends.”
Classified: This word refers to information or documents that are protected due to their sensitive nature like some documents in museums.
- Usage Example: “The report is classified; only authorized persons like my mom can access it.”
Usage Examples of “Hush Hush”
- “The project is hush-hush for now; we’ll announce it when it’s ready.”
- “There are rumors, but it’s all hush-hush at the moment.”
- “She’s working on something hush-hush; she won’t reveal the details yet.”
19. What Does “High and Mighty” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “High and Mighty”
“High and mighty” in British slang refers to someone who is “arrogant” or behaves as if they are superior to others. It was a perfect match for those persons who are arrogant due to their higher status or social standing.
Origin of “High and Mighty”
The term “high and mighty” comes from the idea of being superior and is often used in a critical or derogatory sense. It originated in the 19th century and is often used to criticize individuals who display an air of superiority or entitlement.
Synonyms for “High and Mighty”
The most commonly known synonyms for “high and mighty” are:
Arrogant: This word describes someone who is overly confident.
- Usage Example: “He’s so arrogant; he thinks he’s better than his teacher.”
Condescending: This word refers to someone who behaves as if they are superior.
- Usage Example: “His condescending attitude makes it hard to work with him.”
Usage Examples of “High and Mighty”
- “He acts all high and mighty, but he’s not as impressive as he thinks.”
- “Don’t be so high and mighty; we’re all equal here.”
- “Her high and mighty attitude puts people off; she needs to be more humble.”
20. What Does “Hank Marvin” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hank Marvin”
“Hank Marvin” in British slang is a rhyming slang for “being hungry”. “Hank Marvin” rhymes with the term “starvin’,” which means extremely hungry.
Origin of “Hank Marvin”
The term “Hank Marvin” originates from rhyming slang where words or phrases are substituted with rhyming words to convey meaning indirectly.
Synonyms for “Hank Marvin”
Commonly used synonyms instead of “Hank Marvin” are:
Starving: This word describes extreme hunger or having a strong desire for food.
- Usage Example: ” I’m starving that’s why my health is a little bit down”
Hungry: This term reflects a feeling of hunger or a need for food.
- Usage Example: “I’m hungry; let’s grab something to eat.”
Famished: This word was used in extreme hunger situations.
- Usage Example: “After the long hike, we were famished and ready for a meal.”
Usage Examples of “Hank Marvin”
- “I skipped breakfast; I’m Hank Marvin now.”
- “She’s always Hank Marvin after her workouts.”
- “I’ll be Hank Marvin if dinner isn’t ready soon.”
21. What Does “Hooligan” Mean in British Slang?
Meaning of “Hooligan”
“Hooligan” in British slang refers to someone who engages in “violent behavior”. Mostly it was used in the context of sports events or public gatherings.
Origin of “Hooligan”
The term “hooligan” originated in the late 19th century and was associated with the violent behaviour of some young troublemakers in London.
Synonyms for “Hooligan”
The synonyms used for the “hooligan” are described below:
Troublemaker: This term was used for someone who causes problems or disturbances, often intentionally.
- Usage Example: “The school has strict rules to deal with troublemakers.”
Ruffian: This word describes someone who behaves in a rough, aggressive, or violent manner.
- Usage Example: “The ruffians were causing chaos in the streets.”
Thug: This term was used for someone who engages in criminal or violent behavior.
- Usage Example: “He was known as a neighborhood thug; he often got into fights.”
Usage Examples of “Hooligan”
- “The cricket match was carried by hooliganism in the stands.”
- “The authorities are cracking down on hooligans causing disturbances in the city.”
- “He used to be a hooligan in his youth but has since turned his life around.”
Final verdict:
All the best British slang terms starting with “H” are playful and commonly used during general conversations. They add a unique taste to the culture of the UK, and foreigners also impress with their impressive meanings. So next time, whenever you visit England, don’t forget to use these slang terms with locals.
