homie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Very informal, slang.
Quick answer
What does “homie” mean?
A close friend from one's own neighbourhood or background, often used as a term of address.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A close friend from one's own neighbourhood or background, often used as a term of address.
A member of a close-knit group sharing common origins, experiences, or culture; a trusted companion.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Primarily an Americanism. In British English, it's understood due to media exposure but not commonly used in native British slang outside of contexts influenced by hip-hop culture.
Connotations
In American English: Strong connotations of urban, youth, and hip-hop culture. In British English: Perceived as an American import; might sound affected if used by someone not part of the relevant subculture.
Frequency
High frequency in informal American speech, especially among younger demographics and in hip-hop/rap contexts. Very low frequency in natural British speech; mostly used in direct imitation of American media.
Grammar
How to Use “homie” in a Sentence
[Possessive Pronoun] + homieHomie + [Prepositional Phrase (from X)]Verb + with + homieVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “homie” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He's just homie-ing around with his crew.
American English
- You gotta homie up and support your boy.
adverb
American English
- We were just kicking it homie-style.
adjective
British English
- That's not a very homie thing to do.
American English
- He's got a real homie vibe, always looking out for people.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate. Would be seen as unprofessional and potentially offensive.
Academic
Completely inappropriate.
Everyday
Common in very informal American settings among friends, especially in urban contexts. Rare in UK everyday speech.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “homie”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Using it without the implied shared background (e.g., a friend you just met).
- Overusing it outside its cultural context and sounding inauthentic.
- Spelling as 'homey' (an older variant with same meaning).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, within its cultural context it is a term of camaraderie and respect. However, using it outside that context (e.g., by an older person to a stranger) can be seen as inappropriate or mocking.
'Homeboy' is the original, slightly older term. 'Homie' is a clipped, more contemporary version. They are largely synonymous, but 'homie' is more common in current slang.
Yes. While originally male-coded, it is now used gender-neutrally to refer to friends of any gender. The feminine equivalent 'homegirl' is also used.
Generally, it's safest to avoid unless you are deeply immersed in the relevant culture and social group. Using it incorrectly can make you sound inauthentic. Neutral terms like 'friend' or 'pal' are always safe.
A close friend from one's own neighbourhood or background, often used as a term of address.
Homie is usually very informal, slang. in register.
Homie: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhəʊmi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhoʊmi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Homie don't play that.”
- “Ain't no homie of mine.”
- “Keep it real with the homies.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of HOME. Your HOMIE is like someone from your HOME, your home territory. Home + ie (like 'cutie' for cute friend) = homie.
Conceptual Metaphor
FRIENDSHIP IS PROXIMITY / SHARED ORIGIN (The closer to home someone is, the stronger the bond).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'homie' be MOST appropriate?