# Waco

/ˈweɪkoʊ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a city in Texas, USA, that is famous for a violent event in 1993 involving a religious group and the government. People often mention it when talking about cults or government standoffs.

For teachers: a city in central Texas, primarily known in international discourse for the 1993 siege of the Branch Davidian compound. Frequently used as a metonym for the conflict between religious fringe groups and federal law enforcement.

## Examples

- We drove through Waco on our way to Austin.
- The documentary explores the events in Waco and their impact on American militia movements.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun; when used as a common noun, it is often a derogatory slang term for a 'whacko' or crazy person, though the spellings differ.

---

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.