Malakas

Malakas (μαλάκας) is a Greek slang word. Malakas is an exceptionally versatile word. The meaning varies depending on the tone and context used. It can be an exclamation of pleasure, an expression of dark horror, a cry of anger, a paean of affection, and other different things besides its literal equivalent, which in British English is "wanker". Common alternative meanings include "asshole" or "jerk", and the contrasting "dude", or "mate", depending on the context. It derives from the Greek word malakos (μαλακός), which means "soft" or "spoilt, well-used to luxuries of life". It is one of the most frequent words picked up by tourists and travellers to Greece and is not unusual amongst the younger Greek diaspora, even when the level of Greek is low. A female form of the word exists, malako (μαλάκω), but is a recent coinage, whereas malakismeni (μαλακισμένη) seems to be rather more vintage.

Usage

In everyday speech, the word malakas is used metaphorically to mean a person who uses no common sense. In addition, in parts of the world outside Greece, with significant Greek population (e.g. the United States), the word malakas appears well known among non-Greek people. It is considered inappropriate to be used against strangers, while it is acceptable among close friends, typically among males, resembling the meaning of "dude" or "mate". There are significant parallels between the word malakas and the word nigga used by some African Americans between each other giving them a sense of friendship or brotherhood. Additionally, also females may use the word in an affectionate way.