Greek Slang You’ll Actually Hear

Textbook Greek is useful – but real Greeks speak differently. Here are common slang words and expressions you’ll hear every day in Greece, explained simply.

1. Ρε

Meaning: Hey / man / dude
Use: To get attention or add emotion

Ρε Μαρία, τι κάνεις;
Hey Maria, how are you?

Can sound rude if overused or said aggressively.

2. Άντε!

Meaning: Come on! / Let’s go! / Hurry up!

Used to:

• Encourage
• Complain
• End a conversation

Άντε, πάμε!
Come on, let’s go!

3. Έλα μωρέ

Meaning: Oh come on / It’s no big deal

Expresses reassurance or dismissal.

Έλα μωρέ, δεν έγινε τίποτα.
Oh come on, nothing happened.

4. Τι λες τώρα!

Literal: What are you saying now?
Real meaning: No way! / Seriously?! / You’re kidding!

Tone changes everything—surprise, disbelief, admiration.

5. Κλασικός / Κλασική

Literal: Classic
Real meaning: Typical (often sarcastic)

Κλασικός Έλληνας.
Typical Greek.

6. Ψήνεσαι;

Literal: Are you getting roasted?
Real meaning: Are you interested? / Are you up for it?

Ψήνεσαι για καφέ;
Do you feel like going for coffee?

7. Χαμός

Literal: Destruction
Real meaning: Crazy / crowded / intense / amazing

Γίνεται χαμός εδώ!
It’s crazy in here!