When talking to someone who’s mad or upset, SOB is short for “son of a b***h.” This harsh acronym is often used to show frustration or to call someone rude or unpleasant.
Similar to the full phrase, SOB is quite versatile. It can be used not only to show frustration but also in moments of surprise, happiness, or sadness, showing that even a crude term like SOB can have multiple meanings.
Example
“You lucky SOB! How did you do that?”
Related Slang
- POS – “piece of sh**”
- WTF – “what the f***”
- FML – “f*** my life”
- D-bag – “douchebag”
- BS – “bullsh**”
- SMH – “shaking my head”
- IDGAF – “I don’t give a f***”
Shortness of Breath
Medical workers use SOB to refer to “shortness of breath.” People with SOB struggle to breathe and might feel as if they are choking. It is often paired with sharp chest pain or dizziness.
Some typical reasons for SOB include:
- Anemia
- Pneumonia
- Allergic reactions
- Physical overexertion
- Pulmonary embolism
If your shortness of breath is serious, it’s a good idea to call 911 or head to the emergency room.
Example
“After climbing the stairs, John felt a sudden SOB and had to sit down to catch his breath.“
Related Slang
- BP – Blood Pressure
- CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
- ECG – Electrocardiogram
- ICU – Intensive Care Unit
- IV – Intravenous
- NPO – Nothing by Mouth (from the Latin nil per os)
- O2 – Oxygen
- CBC – Complete Blood Count
- UTI – Urinary Tract Infection
