noun Street Slang

Pikey

/ˈpaɪki/ · noun · offensive

An offensive British slur, originally a derogatory term for Travellers, also used to mean tacky or cheap.

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Definitions

1

A derogatory and offensive slur for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller people.

“Using that word is a slur, full stop.”
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2

Used insultingly to mean someone scruffy, cheap, or untrustworthy.

“He called the bargain bin pikey, which is just snobbery.”
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3

As a put-down for tacky or low-quality behaviour or things.

“Nicking the free pens is a bit pikey.”
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Pikey In A Sentence

That word is a slur against Travellers, don't use it.
People throw 'pikey' around carelessly without realising it's hateful.
He thinks calling things pikey is funny, it isn't.

Origin & Usage

British slang dating to the 19th century, originally an ethnic slur against Travellers, possibly from 'turnpike'. It is widely recognized as a slur and offensive.

Variants Pikie
Tags #british#uk

People Also Ask

What does pikey mean?

It's an offensive British slur for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller people, also loosely used to mean cheap or tacky.

Is pikey offensive?

Yes, it's recognized as a slur and is genuinely hurtful, especially to Traveller communities.

Why is pikey considered a slur?

Because it dehumanizes Travellers as an ethnic group, which is why it's treated as hate speech.

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