ENGLISH
REFERENCE

git

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɪt// UK //ɡˈɪt// git Informal Slang Vulgar Computing
Definition

n. an annoying, selfish, or unpleasant person. You use this when you think someone is being rude or stupid, but it is not as strong as a swear word.

n. an unpleasant, contemptible, or incompetent person. Often used as a mild insult in British English to describe someone perceived as annoying or selfish.


SIMPLE

Don't be such a selfish git.

CONTEXTUAL

He's a grumpy old git who never says hello to his neighbours.

Etymology 1

From Middle English get (“[illegitimate] offspring”). A southern variant of Scots get (“illegitimate child, brat”), related to beget.

Etymology 2

Likely chosen for its shortness and pronounceability, but various other explanations and backronyms were offered after its introduction.

Usage

Primarily British English; informal and mildly offensive.

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