For the cybernetic inhabitants of Cyberpunk 2077, the use of futuristic slang permeates their daily interactions. For modern-day players, however, this unique vernacular can present a challenge. The diverse slang of Night City may feel disorienting, especially for those who aren’t well-versed in the complex lore of the extensive Cyberpunk universe. It can sometimes seem as if V and their companions are communicating in an entirely different language. By familiarizing oneself with key slang terms and their meanings, players can enhance their immersion and enjoyment of the game.

Many of the slang terms encountered in Cyberpunk 2077 originate from the original Cyberpunk 2020 and the more recent Cyberpunk RED tabletop role-playing games. The narrative is deeply influenced by contemporary technology, which has integrated seamlessly into the fabric of human experience. This reality allows some technical jargon to blend into everyday conversation. A rich tapestry of slang in Cyberpunk often combines technical language with words from various foreign languages prevalent in Night City, infused with an edgy, rebellious spirit.

Comprehensive Cyberpunk Glossary: Unlocking the Slang of Cyberpunk 2077

Defining Night City’s Streetslang

Throughout the gameplay, players will encounter a multitude of distinctive expressions. While some terms may be obscure, several are used frequently enough to warrant attention.

Term Definition Apogee The pinnacle or best of something. OF Acronym for Aerodyne Vehicle, a luxury flying car typically reserved for the affluent. We A colloquial term for “business, ”referring to jobs or meetings within the Cyberpunk world. Borg A derogatory term for someone who has undergone extensive cybernetic modifications. Boostergang/Booster Gangs characterized by their territorial behavior and reliance on cybernetic enhancements; includes groups like Maelstrom. Bourgie/Bourgy A classist term used derogatorily to signify someone as being of low class. Braindance/BD A virtual reality medium that allows the user to experience someone else’s memories, complete with emotions and sensory experiences. Chippin’ In Refers to the process of enhancing oneself with cyberware, particularly for the first time. CHOOH/CHOOH2 A synthetic fuel developed by Biotechnica, similar to modern gasoline. Choom/Choombah A term of endearment derived from the Neo-African American vernacular for friends. Chrome Slang for cyberware, often used in the context of acquiring enhancements. BodyAn employee of a corporation, often with a negative connotation. Culture Vulture An entertainment journalist, especially one who exploits misfortunes for profit. Data Crash The significant collapse of the Net in the early 2020s, initiated by legendary Netrunner Rache Bartmoss. Deckhead Another term for a Netrunner, named for the implant that enables their connection to the Net. Delta To depart quickly or with urgency. You detest Short for “details.”Used casually in conversation. Dirty Referring to something outdated or low-tech, particularly in contrast to the Net. Dock Casual term for sexual intercourse. Dorph A synthetic endorphin used recreationally among hackers. Dorpher/Dorphead Individuals who regularly use Dorphs and have become dependent on the substance. (The) Edge The marginalized fringes of society, often where Edgerunners operate. Edgerunner A term for those living on the outskirts, often engaging in illegal or quasi-legal activities. EddiesThe primary currency in Night City, short for Eurodollars. Fixer A facilitator of deals, often in illegal realms. Flatline To die or cause death. Gangoon A low-ranking member of a gang, commonly used in reference to the Valentinos. Cat Slang for something that is considered cool. Gonk A foolish person. Handle A street name used for anonymity, especially in illegal dealings. Highrider A person who primarily lives and works in space. Iron A colloquial term for weapons. Jaina A term of affection in Chicano culture. Joytoy A sex worker, can be specified as Joyboy or Joygirl. Kibble Processed or rationed food, often associated with government-issued commodities. Kibble Card A form of ration card akin to modern food stamps. Valve To steal; derived from the Greek term for theft. Linefoot A term for a resident of the city, specifically used by Nomads. Meatspace The physical realm, as distinct from cyberspace. Netrunner An adept technology user capable of hacking and navigating cyberspace. Netpig A pejorative for Netwatch, the policing entity of the Net. Nomad A member of the Badlands clans, often ostracized from corporate life. New Something cool or extraordinary, derived from Latin. Posergang/Poser A gang focused on achieving a certain aesthetic, often at risk. Prem A casual term meaning “cool, ”originating from the word premium. Ripperdoc/RipperA cybernetic surgeon, often with a connection to the criminal underground. Rockerboy/Rockergirl A musician who also engages in activism, viewed as a freedom fighter by some. Samurai Corporate mercenaries; also the name of Johnny Silverhand’s band. SCOPE Single-cell organic protein, indicative of low-quality sustenance. Scratch Another term for currency, specifically eddies. Screamsheets Personalized digital news sources catered to user interests. Scroll To edit or modify a braindance. Shard Short form of “datashard, ”a portable data storage medium. Alone A mercenary who prefers short-term contracts over long-term commitments. Trauma Short for Trauma Team, the heavily armed medical response force in Night City. Vidiot A person addicted to video games or virtual reality. Virtu An unaltered braindance that conveys complete emotions and experiences. Weefle An inexperienced Netrunner. Zeroed A term meaning to be killed, possibly connected to tabletop RPG mechanics.

The development of slang is inherently tied to the contexts and realities of daily life. In Cyberpunk 2077, the unique expressions contribute to a vibrant and authentic atmosphere, distinguishing the slang of this dystopian universe from contemporary language. The use of product names and other terms is realistic; real-world societies frequently create colloquialisms around popular concepts, akin to how we shorten “applications”to “apps”or refer to influencers.

Evolution of Slang in Cyberpunk: From Tabletop to Video Game

The Roots of Cyberpunk 2077’s Slang

Cyberpunk 2077 draws from the universe originally crafted by Mike Pondsmith in the Cyberpunk tabletop series, incorporating elements from various languages, lifestyles, and cultures observed throughout Night City.

Notably, the slang is heavily influenced by both Spanish and Japanese, mirroring the diverse linguistic landscape of the game’s population. In the original games, players routinely encountered terms from these languages, such as “aho”(idiot), “yabai”(dangerous), and “muzukashi”(difficult).

The incorporation of technical slang—particularly relating to the digital realm, technology, and cybernetic enhancements—is also a hallmark of Cyberpunk’s unique vernacular.Many of these linguistic expressions can trace their lineage back to the works of William Gibson, an influential figure in the cyberpunk genre whose seminal work, Neuromancer, laid the groundwork for much of its terminology. Additionally, many slang phrases reflect the socio-economic conditions of life in Night City, establishing comparisons to real-world terminology.

Within the tabletop series, “Gibson” colloquially denotes a perceptive individual, nodding to the prophetic insights of Gibson’s literary output.

As Cyberpunk transitioned into its video game format, some minor adjustments in slang occurred.Some expressions have evolved over time: for instance, the initial meanings of “input”and “output”have swapped between the original tabletop setting and the events of 2077, where “output”is now known as “boyfriend”and “input”means “girlfriend.”

Despite these nuanced shifts, the majority of the lore in Cyberpunk 2077 retains fidelity to the foundational narratives set forth in Pondsmith’s expansive universe. Players can delve deeper into the game’s context and uncover additional layers of slang by engaging with the original tabletop game or exploring supplementary sourcebooks.

While complete immersion in the Cyberpunk universe does not necessitate an exhaustive study of its unique slang or textual intricacies, having a grasp of common colloquialisms can certainly enhance the player’s experience. Fortunately, the narrative often provides enough context for players to interpret terms naturally. By getting familiar with the most frequently used slang in Cyberpunk 2077, players will be well-equipped to navigate the treacherous streets of Night City, ready to take on challenges and earn their share of eddies.

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