gangsta

noun

gang·​sta ˈgaŋ(k)-stə How to pronounce gangsta (audio)
often attributive
1
: a member of an inner-city street gang
2
: a performer of gangsta rap

Examples of gangsta in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In fact, all forms of Persian rap — from street rap and gangsta to philosophical and social hip-hop — were used in the service of protest, with many works accompanied by heavy beats, dark atmospheres, and harsh narrative styles. Ali Farahmand, IndieWire, 23 May 2025 Based on the wall-to-wall live coverage available during the qualifying rounds on Max, TNT Sports is walking with a gangsta limp, left hand tucked behind the back. Merlisa Lawrence Corbett, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 The tough, gangsta image that defined late ’80s and early ’90s hip-hop had now been sanded down into something more aspirational and decidedly capitalist. Kyndall Cunningham, Vox, 12 May 2025 The Geto Boys used expletives and a lot of bravado, but the core of their message is that a ‘gangsta’ is unafraid to be themselves, and confident in their experience. Angela Andaloro, People.com, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for gangsta

Word History

Etymology

respelling of gangster reflecting loss of final r

First Known Use

1988, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gangsta was in 1988

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gangsta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gangsta. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!