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How to use 'merch' the Chicago way
If you've spent time in Chicago or follow TikTok trends, you’ve likely heard the term “merch” and wondered about its true meaning. While it typically stands for merchandise, in Chicago slang, 'merch' refers to proving something. In this article, we’ll break down what 'merch' means, how to use it in conversation, its origins, and explore other slang expressions tied to Chicago culture.
What does 'merch' signify in Chicago?
While 'merch' is commonly shorthand for merchandise, in Chicago, it’s a term used to demand proof or confirm the truth of something. You might use it to call someone out for lying or exaggerating, essentially saying 'prove it.' Alternatively, 'merch' can be used to assert the truth of your own statement, promising that you can back it up with evidence.
How to use 'merch' in conversation
What does 'merch' mean in slang?
In slang, 'merch' is used to demand proof of something. While most people recognize 'merch' as shorthand for merchandise, in Chicago and among Gen Z, it takes on a different meaning. It's a term used when you want someone to prove something they’ve claimed. This usage of 'merch' originated in Chicago, Illinois.
- For instance, if someone tells you a mutual friend has been gossiping about you, instead of saying 'prove it,' you might simply say 'merch.'
How to Use 'Merch'
Use 'merch' to challenge someone to provide proof or confirm something. If you suspect someone is exaggerating or lying, you can say 'Merch' as a way to ask them to prove their statement. Similarly, if you need to back up your own words, you can use 'merch' to emphasize your honesty, similar to saying 'I swear,' 'No cap,' or 'I have proof.' Here are some examples:
- “I’m telling the truth. I’ll merch it on my mama.”
- “You’re really going to ask your crush out? Merch!”
- “I just found $100 on the ground, and I can merch it.”
The Origins of 'Merch' Slang
'Merch' is a slang term that originated in Chicago, Illinois. Like many slang expressions, it’s tough to trace the exact moment 'merch' began being used in this way. However, its usage has been largely confined to Chicago for a long time, leaving people outside the city puzzled when they hear it used in this context.
Gen Z has brought the term to the online world. In recent years, younger people, even those not from Chicago, have embraced 'merch' in this slang sense. This shift has been fueled by the popularity of social media platforms like TikTok, where users across the globe share videos and spread trends.
Other Meanings of 'Merch'
'Merch' is a shorthand for merchandise. While 'merch' commonly refers to products sold by brands, it's particularly used when talking about items related to a specific fanbase, such as those connected to a band, sports team, movie, or TV series. Common merch items include T-shirts and accessories.
- For instance, if you bought a T-shirt for your favorite band’s new album, that’s merch.
'Merching' can also mean promoting products on social media. When influencers or celebrities are paid to endorse products on platforms like Instagram, they may be described as 'merching.' This likely stems from the word’s connection to merchandise and salespeople.
- For example, you might say, 'Do you follow the Kardashians on Instagram? They’re always merching.'
Other Slang Expressions from Chicago
'Flodgin' This Chicago-specific term means lying or pretending. If someone catches you in a fib or knows you’re not being truthful, they might say 'Stop flodgin'.' It's also used when someone is pretending to be something or someone they aren't.
- For example, 'Stop flodgin'. I literally saw you take money out of my purse.'
- 'Flodgin’' could have originated from 'camouflaging,' meaning to conceal or hide something.
'Fin' A 'fin' refers to a five-dollar bill, a term often used in Chicago, although you might hear it elsewhere in North America. If someone asks for a 'fin,' they are asking for five dollars.
- For example, 'Can you spot me a fin so I can get a snack?'
'Dibs' In Chicago, calling 'dibs' means to claim something in advance, particularly a parking spot during the winter. To reserve your spot, you might put random items like furniture or suitcases in the space.
- For example, 'I shoveled out my parking spot, so I’m putting a lawn chair there for my dibs.'
'Kickback' In Chicago, a house party is often referred to as a 'kickback.' These are more laid-back and low-key gatherings compared to regular parties, which tend to be more energetic and wild. A kickback is where friends hang out and chill.
- For example, 'Hey, we’re having a kickback at my house tomorrow night if you want to come.'
'Wear the jacket' In Chicago, the phrase 'wear the jacket' doesn't always refer to clothing. Rooted in the city’s gangster history, it typically means to take the blame for something or to take the fall for a crime. This expression comes from the 'jacket,' the term for a criminal case file. When someone was charged, they were said to have 'worn the jacket.'
- For instance, you might say, 'I knew he’d get in serious trouble if he got caught, so I wore the jacket instead.'
