What Does OG Mean? Explaining the Origins and Multiple Meanings

The origin and usage of the term, “OG”, can be traced back to the street culture of hip-hop and rap in the late 1980s, with OG being short for the term, “Original Gangster”. Since then, the term has been adopted in different ways, and adopted as its own given name, with many giving it its own definition apart from the original.

The OG Meaning of “Original Gangster”

The original definition of the term OG could be traced back to the hip-hop and rap scene of the late 1980s, where it was used as a way to describe somebody who was an experienced and influential gangster, usually a veteran of the drug dealing subculture. It was their respect and influence that gave other people the incentive to listen to them, as well as follow them, therefore furthering the term beyond just a gang member.

Another slang definition for OG is “Original”, which implies a person, product, or entity that is the source of the current situation, trend, or culture. This definition of OG is usually employed to describe somebody who has been influential in that particular activity, trend, or culture, often regardless of when they were included.

The Expanded Meanings of OG

Back in the late 1980s, there were already many slang terms being used in the world of hip-hop and rap. As OG took on a life of its own, it was no surprise that the term had its own expanded meanings and implications.

One of the most popular meanings of the term OG is “Overground”, used to describe something or someone that is known by the public, used a lot by the media, or has very public and mainstream popularity. This meaning of OG can also be used to show someone’s status in the “underground” rap or hip-hop scene, with the “underground” being a term developed alongside OG to describe music and other activities that are not in the mainstream.

Along with its major uses, the term OG can also be used to show approval or acknowledgement, as well as respect. This often happens when it is used in chatrooms and other forums, in order to show how much support or approval someone or something is receiving. This can also be used to describe how a situation has gone, implying that a certain action has been successful.

The term OG is not only a slang word, but its also a way of life, with its own set of customs and language. Many people who are passionate about hip-hop and rap culture adopt the term OG and use it to show their respect for the scene and pay homage to their musical idols.

Conclusion

The term OG, first coined in the late 1980s, can be traced back to the hip-hop and rap community, where it was used to describe a veteran gangster who was highly influential and respected. Over time, the term has taken on a life of its own and expanded to multiple meanings, such as “Original” and “Overground”. OG is also used to show approval or acknowledgement and respect, and is a way of life for passionate fans of hip-hop and rap music.