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motswako

(South Africa, Botswana) A subgenre of hip hop music popular in Southern Africa.

ˌmɔtˈswɑkoʊDocumented since 1990s1990sMillennialhistorical319 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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Born ~1990 · no dated citations yet
1990BornToday, 2026
Millennial / early-internet eraSee decade cohort →

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#1·Apr 27, 2026US

(South Africa, Botswana) A subgenre of hip hop music popular in Southern Africa.

For parents

Motswako means: A subgenre of hip hop music popular in Southern Africa.. It is mainly South African English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

For ESL learners

motswako means: A subgenre of hip hop music popular in Southern Africa.. Register: informal, South African English. Often not understood outside its region; gloss the word on first use when writing for an international audience. Common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; always check the context before producing it yourself.

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For specific readers

Motswako means: A subgenre of hip hop music popular in Southern Africa.. It is mainly South African English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

Why is this section here?

Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.

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