Homie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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homie

[ˈhoʊmi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

friend, companion

The term 'homie' is a colloquial expression that refers to a close and trusted friend, often used within urban or youth culture. It conveys a sense of camaraderie and loyalty among friends. Homies are typically individuals who share similar experiences or backgrounds.

Synonyms

buddy, friend, mate, pal.

Examples of usage

  • Hey, what's up, homie?
  • I always hang out with my homies on the weekends.
  • He's been my homie since childhood.
  • I can't believe my homie is moving away.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the 1990s, 'homie' became widely popular in mainstream music and movies, often representing friendship in urban settings.
  • Television shows like 'Friends' and 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' contributed to the spread of the term, portraying close-knit friendships.
  • The word regularly appears in rap lyrics, reinforcing its connection to loyalty and camaraderie.

Sociology

  • Research shows that using terms like 'homie' can foster a sense of belonging and community among peers.
  • The use of slang such as 'homie' often reflects cultural identity, bonding groups through shared language.
  • In many cultures, the concept of a homie underscores the importance of social networks in urban environments.

Psychology

  • Having a homie can greatly enhance social support, contributing positively to mental health and well-being.
  • Friends labeled as 'homies' often share deeper emotional connections, providing a safe space for vulnerability.
  • This term encapsulates affection and loyalty, reinforcing positive interpersonal relationships.

Literature

  • The concept of friendship portrayed by 'homies' is a common theme in contemporary literature, reflecting urban realities.
  • Various authors have used the term to explore complex relationships among young adults in diverse settings.
  • The bond between homies often symbolizes unity and resilience against societal challenges in storytelling.

Origin of 'homie'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'homie' originated in the 1970s in the hip hop culture of Los Angeles, derived from 'homeboy'.
  • It is often used to describe someone from the same neighborhood or community, emphasizing a close bond.
  • Over time, it has evolved to refer to any close friend, regardless of geographic ties.

The word 'homie' is derived from the slang term 'homeboy,' which originated in the African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in the late 20th century. 'Homeboy' originally referred to a person from one's hometown or neighborhood and has positive connotations of trust and familiarity. Over time, 'homie' became popularized through hip-hop culture, music, and social media, expanding its usage beyond specific neighborhoods to mean a close friend or companion. The term reflects the importance of friendship and loyalty within community contexts. Its usage varies across different regions and demographics, but it generally maintains its meaning of an affectionate or loyal friend.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,731, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.