roadman

A roadman is a young man, usually in a UK city, who is deeply into street culture. The word can describe someone tough and street-smart, someone involved in petty crime, or, very often, someone who just dresses and talks the part. It is frequently used as a joke.

What does roadman mean?

“Road” in London slang means the streets, so a roadman is someone whose life revolves around them. In its most serious sense, it refers to young men caught up in gangs or dealing. In everyday use, though, it mostly points to a style and attitude: tracksuits, a puffer jacket, a crossbody bag, heavy London slang and a confident swagger.

Because the look is so recognizable, “roadman” is a popular target for memes and comedy, and people often use it to tease friends who try a little too hard to seem tough.

How to use it

• “He bought one North Face jacket and now he thinks he’s a roadman.”
• “My little brother’s started talking like a roadman.”
• “That sketch about the posh roadman had me crying.”
• “Don’t walk through the estate like a roadman, you’re from the suburbs.”

Is roadman an insult?

It depends. Used about a real person involved in crime, it is a negative label. Used playfully about a friend’s outfit or accent, it is teasing. Calling someone a roadman just because of how they dress or where they live can also come across as snobby or stereotyping.

Related terms

• mandem: your group of guy friends
• bruv: brother, mate
• wasteman: a useless, annoying person
• innit: “isn’t it”
• peng: attractive or really good

See more terms like this in our British slang dictionary.