Australians have a variety of colloquial terms and nicknames they use to refer to each other. Many of these are based on abbreviations, the country’s convict history, and aspects of Australian culture. Let’s explore some of the most common Aussie nicknames and terms of endearment.
Shortened Names
Australians love to shorten names and words in speech. This extends to what they call their friends and family members. Some examples include:
- Chris -> Chook
- Richard -> Ricko
- Jennifer -> Jen
- Elizabeth -> Liz or Beth
Pretty much any name can be shortened into a nickname. Calling someone by a shortened version of their name is very common between close friends, family, and romantic partners.
Rhyming Nicknames
Rhyming nicknames are another beloved Aussie tradition. If someone’s name rhymes with a common word, that word often becomes their nickname. For instance:
- John -> Jonno
- Peter -> Pete-o
- Jared -> Jazza
- Sharon -> Shazza
So someone named Stephen could end up answering to “Bevo,” while David might be called “Dav-o.” The possibilities are endless!
Convict Terms
Australia’s history as a penal colony lives on in the slang. Calling someone “convict” is an insult, implying criminal ancestors. More specific convict-related terms include:
- Lagger – An informer or snitch.
- Old lag – Someone who has been imprisoned multiple times.
- On the run – Escaped prisoner.
- Posh – Prisoner.
While these may seem derogatory, close friends might use them affectionately. For example, jokingly calling your buddy “posh” if he shows up late.
Gendered Terms
Some Australian nicknames are very gender-specific. Males might address each other as:
- Mate – The most popular masculine term, similar to “buddy” or “bro.”
- Bloke – Another word for man or guy.
- Cobber – Slang for friend.
Females have their own affectionate titles:
- Sheila – Slang for a woman.
- Bird – Similar to calling someone “chick.”
- Darling – A classic romantic endearment.
Greetings
The way Australians greet each other also contributes to their playful national character:
- How ya going?, How’s it going? – Ways of saying hello.
- Good on ya – Well done, good for you.
- No worries – You’re welcome.
Using these phrases immediately identifies someone as Aussie. The words are strongly tied to Australian English and culture.
Animal Nicknames
Australia’s unique wildlife also inspires nicknames. Someone very active might be called “wombat,” while a larger mate could end up with “hippo” or “rhino.” Other creature nicknames include:
- Emu – For someone tall.
- Kanga – For a female friend.
- Dingo – For someone a bit wild.
- Snake – Reserved for someone sneaky or deceitful.
These animal nicknames can be insulting in some contexts but playful between friends.
Cultural References
Nicknames often reference aspects of Australian culture:
- Banjo – Someone bush-savvy.
- Croc – A daring risk-taker.
- Smoko – Calling someone out for a smoking break.
- Bottler – An all-around good person.
Aussies are also famous for shortening words. Someone enthusiastic is “enth-o,” chips are “chippies,” and McDonald’s becomes “Macca’s.”
Regional Terms of Endearment
Different Australian regions have their own quirky nicknames, too. In Queensland, “cockroach” is a humorous term for a best friend. Western Australians use “grouse” to mean excellent or cool. The Australian Capital Territory has “spud” as a generic nickname for any male in the region.
Insults and Put-Downs
Not all Australian nicknames are loving. Some common insulting names include:
- Bogan – The Australian version of a redneck, hillbilly, or white trash.
- Ankle biter – An annoying small child.
- Bludger – A lazy person who doesn’t contribute.
- Poof(t)er – An offensive slur for gay men.
Most Australians avoid using hurtful terms today. But they were more widely accepted in the past and still occasionally rear their heads, especially from older folks.
Food Nicknames
Australians also like to call each other by food names. These can reference a person’s body shape, complexion, or just be random:
- Banana – Someone very pale.
- Blueberry – A person with a round, plump figure.
- Biscuit – Affectionate term with no real meaning.
- Grape – Someone very slender or thin.
Using food as nicknames is silly and not meant to offend. Some even evolve into proper names, like “Biscuit” or “Banana.”
Conclusion
Australians love abbreviating words and peppering their vocabulary with slang. The country’s unique history and culture have contributed many colorful terms over time. Nicknames are used to describe appearance, origins, personality, or relationships between people.
While some nicknames have derogatory origins, most are now used harmlessly between friends. Australians’ fondness for casual language helps bring folks closer together. So don’t be surprised if during a visit down under you end up with your very own Aussie nickname!