Language is a living, breathing thing, and one of the most interesting parts of it is how countries have developed nicknames and slang for people from other nations. Whether these names are playful, teasing, or affectionate, they’ve become part of everyday conversation and international banter. From Yanks for Americans to Poms for the English, the world is full of creative ways to talk about each other.
In this blog, we’ll take a little trip around the globe, exploring some of the most common slang terms used to refer to people from different countries.
But how do you know your Yank from your Pom? Let’s dive into some of the most widely used terms today!
1. Yanks – Americans
One of the most well-known nicknames, Yanks is used by Brits, Aussies, and many others to refer to Americans. Originally a Civil War-era term for people from the northern U.S., it’s now used globally for all Americans.
2. Poms – English (by Australians and New Zealanders)
Aussies and Kiwis love calling their British friends Poms. Where it came from is still debated, but one popular theory is that it comes from pomegranate (rhyming slang for immigrant). Either way, it’s stuck.
3. Kiwis – New Zealanders
Named after New Zealand’s iconic bird, Kiwis is a friendly, widely accepted nickname for New Zealanders both at home and abroad.
4. Canucks – Canadians
Whether you’re from British Columbia or Nova Scotia, if you’re Canadian, you’ve probably heard Canuck thrown around. It’s a casual, neutral nickname, and even Canadians use it to refer to themselves.
5. Aussies – Australians
No surprises here! Aussie is the go-to nickname for Australians, used everywhere from sports commentary to casual conversations.
6. Boches – Germans (by French)
The French have referred to Germans as Boches since the early 20th century, particularly around World War I and II. The term comes from Alboche, a mix of Allemand (French for German) and caboche (slang for head).
7. Brits – British
If you’re from the UK, chances are you’ve been called a Brit. It’s one of the friendliest and most commonly used nicknames for people from Britain.
8. Jerries – Germans (by British in WWII)
During World War II, British soldiers used the term Jerries for their German counterparts. Like Huns, this one’s largely fallen out of use today.
9. Tommies – British (by Germans in WWI/WWII)
In return, German soldiers called British soldiers Tommies during both World Wars, referencing the common British soldier name, Tommy Atkins.
10. Gringos – Americans/Westerners (by Latin Americans)
In Latin America, Gringo is commonly used to refer to Americans or Westerners. While its tone can vary (neutral, playful, or slightly mocking), it’s one of the most widely recognized terms in the Spanish-speaking world.
11. Taffies – Welsh (by English)
Taffy is a playful nickname for people from Wales, likely inspired by the River Taff. It’s mostly used in a lighthearted, non-offensive way.
12. Jocks – Scottish (by English)
Jock is a common nickname for Scottish people, rooted in the name John. It’s a term used both within the UK and beyond.
13. Chilango – Mexico City residents (by Mexicans)
People from Mexico City are often called Chilangos by fellow Mexicans. It’s a playful term, though some use it in a slightly mocking way to poke fun at the big-city lifestyle.
14. Limeys – British (by Americans, Australians)
Limey comes from British sailors’ practice of eating limes to prevent scurvy. Over time, it became a casual (and sometimes cheeky) nickname for all Brits.
15. Seppos – Americans (by Australians)
Seppo is an Australian slang term for Americans, derived from Septic Tank, which rhymes with Yank. It’s usually used in a humorous or teasing way.
16. Brazuca – Brazilians (by Brazilians)
Brazilians sometimes refer to themselves as Brazucas. It’s an affectionate, proud nickname that shows national pride.
17. Canarios – People from the Canary Islands (by Spaniards)
In Spain, people from the Canary Islands are known as Canarios. It’s a neutral or affectionate term, depending on how it’s used.
18. Chico – Latin Americans (by Spaniards)
Spaniards sometimes call Latin Americans Chico, which means boy. It’s generally used affectionately, especially in casual or familiar situations.
19. Pinoy – Filipinos (by Filipinos)
Pinoy is a term used by Filipinos to refer to themselves, and it’s widely accepted both at home and abroad. It’s a source of national pride and affection.
Final Thoughts:
Whether these terms are used with affection, humor, or the occasional sting, they reflect the colorful way we talk about each other across cultures. And while some of these nicknames have historical roots that might make them sensitive today, others are all about lighthearted banter and cultural pride.
At the end of the day, slang is all about connection—and now you’re a little more connected to the quirky ways we refer to our international neighbors!
Have we missed any other fun country nicknames? Let us know in the comments!