Has your child ever called you the OG, and you’re not sure how to feel? Don’t worry—it’s typically a compliment! Here’s what OG means and how it’s used today.
What Does OG Stand For?
OG stands for original gangster. It’s a slang term used to describe someone who is exceptional, authentic, or old-school.
It can also refer to the originator of something. For instance, someone might say they prefer the OG Lion King movie over the 2019 live-action remake.
Where Did OG Come From?
The term originated in the 1970s with the Los Angeles-based gang, the Original Gangster Crips, to signify that they were the first or real OGs.
It later gained popularity through hip-hop and rap music as a way to honor long-standing gang members.
Over time, OG became mainstream, losing its gang-related context and now being used to describe anything cool, original, or impressive.
Even though you might see OG in different contexts like in OG Kush (a strain of marijuana), the term generally refers to something or someone authentic and remarkable.
Examples of OG in Everyday Use
- The OG Disney Channel shows were way better than what’s on now.
- Beyoncé is the real OG.
- Michael Jordan is the OG of basketball.
- My teacher gave me extra time on my project—he’s the real OG.
Talking to Your Kids About Slang
Keeping up with slang can be tricky, but a fun way to stay connected is by asking your kids what the latest terms mean.
It can lead to great conversations about how language has evolved since you were in school!
