sheila: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, slang
Quick answer
What does “sheila” mean?
A girl or woman (Australian/NZ informal).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A girl or woman (Australian/NZ informal).
Used informally in Australia and New Zealand to refer to a woman, often a girlfriend. It is frequently neutral but can sometimes be used in a derogatory or dismissive way, depending on context and tone.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
This word is not standard in British or American English. Its use outside Australia/New Zealand is rare and likely to be used jokingly or to sound deliberately 'Aussie'.
Connotations
In its native context, it can range from neutral to derogatory. In other Englishes, its use may sound ignorant or deliberately appropriative of Australian culture.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both British and American English.
Grammar
How to Use “sheila” in a Sentence
Referential: "He's with his sheila."Vocative (rare): "G'day, sheila!"Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate and unprofessional.
Academic
Only used in linguistic, anthropological, or cultural studies discussing Australian slang.
Everyday
Only appropriate in casual Australian/New Zealand settings among friends, and even then often dated. Avoid elsewhere.
Technical
No technical usage.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sheila”
- Using it outside of Australian/New Zealand contexts.
- Using it in a formal setting.
- Assuming it is always neutral or polite.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be, depending on context and tone. Many Australians, particularly women, consider it dated and sexist. It's best avoided by non-native speakers.
No, it is not part of standard British or American English. Using it there would sound strange and likely inappropriate.
Yes, Sheila is a common female first name in English-speaking countries. The slang term is derived from the name, but they are distinct uses.
The most common male equivalent is 'bloke'.
A girl or woman (Australian/NZ informal).
Sheila is usually informal, slang in register.
Sheila: in British English it is pronounced /ˈʃiːlə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈʃiːlə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not to be confused with 'She'll be right' (a separate Australian idiom).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a woman named SHEILA from Australia. The name itself has become a slang term for 'woman' there.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROPER NAME FOR A CATEGORY (similar to 'Karen' or 'Chad' in other contexts).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'sheila' most appropriately used?