# lingo

/ˈɫɪŋɡoʊ/ (US) · /lˈɪŋɡəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lingo
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the special words or phrases used by a specific group of people. You use this when talking about technical language or slang that is hard for outsiders to understand.

For teachers: the vocabulary or jargon associated with a particular subject, occupation, or social group. Often carries a slightly dismissive or informal tone when used by those outside the group.

## Examples

- I don't understand the legal lingo in this contract.
- After a week on the trading floor, she finally started to pick up the financial lingo used by her colleagues.
- While the software developers spoke a technical lingo that baffled the marketing team, both groups eventually found common ground through shared project goals.

## Usage notes

- Usually uncountable when referring to the general style of speech; countable when referring to a specific variety.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.