gangsta

[gang-stuh]

noun

1. a member of an urban street gang.

   He was a true gangsta, and he fought like a soldier for his turf.

   Synonyms: cholo, homie, homeboy, thug

2. gangsta rap.

adjective

1. of or characteristic of urban street gangs, their members, or gangsta rap.

   There was no hiding his prison record or his gangsta tattoos from potential employers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gangsta¹

First recorded in 1985–90; representing the typically r-less African American Vernacular English pronunciation of gangster ( def. )

Example Sentences

This week saw a drugs ring run by a "gangsta" granny sent to prison, the preliminary report into last month's Air India disaster, and Prince George celebrate his 12th birthday.

From BBC

Once a polarizing gangsta rapper and now a beloved pop culture icon, Snoop Dogg has expressed interest in owning a soccer team before.

From Los Angeles Times

"I just wanted to feel like a little gangsta," she said.

From BBC

And we meet Tupac, who was murdered in 1996 at 25, as a bright, sensitive teenager with a gift for words who would go on to become synonymous with West Coast gangsta rap.

From Los Angeles Times

Even as he revives his old gangsta mystique on “Missionary,” talking about family seems to bring something tender out in Snoop.

From Los Angeles Times