ENGLISH
REFERENCE

yay

n.
US //ˈjeɪ// yay
  1. 1 slang for cocaine (n.)
    C2 Proficiency American English Slang

    a slang name for the drug cocaine.

    a slang term for cocaine, specifically in powder or crack form.

    Example

    The song lyrics mentioned 'yay' as a reference to street life.

    Example

    The detective noted that the suspects used 'yay' as a code word during the recorded phone conversations.

    Usage

    Uncountable noun used primarily in urban or hip-hop contexts.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners should be aware of this meaning to understand song lyrics or films, but should avoid using it themselves.
Etymology 1

Alteration of yea (“yes; even, truly, verily”). More at yea.

Etymology 2

Clipping of yayo, from Spanish llello.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026