# Dey

/ˈdeɪ/ (US) · /dˈeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dey
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

to be, to exist, or to stay in a place. It is a common word in Nigerian Pidgin and other West African English styles to describe where someone is or how they are doing.

For teachers: to exist, be present, or be located in a specific state or place. Functions as a copula or existential verb in West African Pidgin and Creole varieties, often replacing 'is', 'am', or 'are'.

## Examples

- I dey house right now.
- When I asked him how he was feeling today, he simply replied, 'I dey fine'.
- The speaker used 'dey' to signal a shift into a more casual, communal register, instantly changing the social dynamic of the conversation with the local audience.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as an aspect marker or a locative copula; it does not change form for person or number.

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