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samseng

Malaysian and Singaporean slang for a thug or gangster — someone who uses intimidation, violence, or street power to get what they want.

ˈsam.seŋ168 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

Malaysian and Singaporean slang for a thug or gangster — someone who uses intimidation, violence, or street power to get what they want. 'Samseng' is a staple of Malay and Singaporean English and carries a specific cultural weight in the context of Southeast Asian gang culture and street life. It's used in everyday conversation to describe anyone from a low-level bully to an organized crime member.

The whole neighborhood knew the samseng who ran the corner — nobody wanted trouble with him.
Origin: From Hokkien Chinese, where it refers to disreputable or violent men; widely absorbed into Malaysian and Singaporean vernacular. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(Malaysia, Singapore) A thug; a gangster.

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