When it comes to slang, staying up-to-date can be a challenge. That’s why we’re here to help. In this listicle, we’ve gathered the top slang for aids that you need to know. Whether you’re trying to impress your friends or just want to understand the latest lingo, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and stay in the know with this exciting compilation of aids-related slang.
Click above to generate some slangs
1. Matsotsi
This term is derived from the Shona language in Zimbabwe and is used to refer to someone who informs on others or betrays their trust. In the context of AIDS, “matsotsi” is used to describe someone who reveals another person’s HIV status without their consent.
- For example, “She thought she could trust him, but he turned out to be a matsotsi and told everyone about her diagnosis.”
- In a discussion about privacy and HIV, someone might say, “We need to protect individuals from matsotsis who would expose their personal health information.”
- A person advocating for HIV awareness might warn, “Don’t be a matsotsi, respect the privacy of those living with HIV.”
2. Akarohwa nematsotsi
In the Shona language, “akarohwa nematsotsi” means “betrayed by an informant.” This phrase is used to describe the act of being betrayed or having one’s HIV status revealed without consent.
- For instance, “She trusted her friend, but she was akarohwa nematsotsi when her HIV status was exposed.”
- In a conversation about the importance of confidentiality, someone might say, “No one should have to experience being akarohwa nematsotsi.”
- An advocate for HIV-positive individuals might emphasize, “We must create a safe environment where people don’t fear being akarohwa nematsotsi.”
3. Thief
In the context of AIDS, “thief” is a slang term used to refer to someone who knowingly transmits the virus to another person without their knowledge or consent. It implies a sense of deception and betrayal.
- For example, “He knew he was HIV-positive but didn’t disclose it to his partner. He’s a thief.”
- In a discussion about the importance of informed consent, someone might say, “We need to hold thieves accountable for their actions.”
- An advocate for HIV prevention might warn, “Protect yourself and others from thieves by practicing safe sex and getting tested regularly.”
4. Sneak attack
In the context of AIDS, “sneak attack” is used to describe the act of transmitting the virus to someone without their knowledge or consent. It suggests a surprise or unexpected assault on someone’s health.
- For instance, “She didn’t see it coming. It was a sneak attack, and now she’s living with HIV.”
- In a conversation about the importance of open communication, someone might say, “We must educate people about the dangers of sneak attacks.”
- An advocate for HIV awareness might emphasize, “Prevention is key to stopping the spread of HIV. Don’t let it catch you off guard with a sneak attack.”
5. The virus
In the context of AIDS slang, “the virus” is a commonly used term to refer to HIV or AIDS. It is a more straightforward and direct way to discuss the disease without using explicit or stigmatizing language.
- For example, “She’s living with the virus and has become a strong advocate for HIV awareness.”
- In a discussion about the impact of HIV, someone might say, “We need to continue research to find a cure for the virus.”
- An educator on HIV prevention might explain, “The virus can be transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth.”
6. HIV-pos
This term is used to describe someone who has tested positive for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is the virus that causes AIDS. It is often used as a shorthand way to refer to someone who is living with HIV.
- For example, a person might say, “I’m HIV-pos and proud of it.”
- In a discussion about HIV prevention, someone might mention, “It’s important for HIV-pos individuals to take their medication regularly.”
- A support group for HIV-pos individuals might advertise, “Join our community of HIV-pos warriors and find the support you need.”
7. Positive
This term is used to describe someone who is living with HIV. It is often used as a more general term that encompasses both people who are HIV-positive and people who have been diagnosed with AIDS.
- For instance, a person might say, “I’ve been positive for 10 years and I’m still going strong.”
- In a conversation about HIV awareness, someone might mention, “It’s important to remember that positive individuals can live long and fulfilling lives.”
- A healthcare provider might explain, “Being positive means that you have the virus in your body, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have developed AIDS.”
8. Having AIDS
This term is used to describe someone who has been diagnosed with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. It is often used to refer to someone who is experiencing the symptoms and complications associated with AIDS.
- For example, a person might say, “I’ve been having AIDS for five years, but I’m still fighting.”
- In a discussion about AIDS research, someone might mention, “We need to find a cure for those who are having AIDS.”
- A support group for people having AIDS might advertise, “Join our community of fighters and find the support you need.”
9. The pandemic
This term is used to describe the global spread of HIV/AIDS and its impact on society. It refers to the widespread and ongoing nature of the epidemic, which has affected millions of people around the world.
- For instance, a person might say, “The pandemic has taken a toll on communities worldwide.”
- In a conversation about HIV prevention, someone might mention, “Education is key in combating the pandemic.”
- A healthcare provider might explain, “The pandemic has led to significant advancements in HIV treatment and care.”
10. The sneak attack
This term is used to describe the way in which HIV can enter the body without causing immediate symptoms. It refers to the fact that HIV can silently infect a person and go undetected for a period of time before symptoms appear.
- For example, a person might say, “HIV is often referred to as the sneak attack because it can go unnoticed for years.”
- In a discussion about HIV testing, someone might mention, “Getting tested regularly is important to catch the sneak attack early.”
- A healthcare provider might explain, “Early detection is crucial in managing the sneak attack of HIV and preventing the progression to AIDS.”
11. Mugged
This term refers to someone who has contracted the AIDS virus. It is often used in a derogatory manner.
- For example, “He got mugged and now he’s living with AIDS.”
- In a conversation about safe sex, someone might say, “Don’t take risks, you don’t want to get mugged.”
- Another might comment, “People need to be educated about the dangers of getting mugged.”
12. Sidada
This is a slang term used to refer to AIDS. It is a shortened version of “AIDS” and is commonly used in informal settings.
- For instance, “They were talking about Sidada at the party.”
- In a discussion about HIV prevention, someone might mention, “Sidada is still a major health concern.”
- Another might say, “We need to raise awareness about Sidada in our community.”
13. Sidosa
Similar to “Sidada,” this is another slang term used to refer to AIDS. It is also a shortened version of “AIDS” and is commonly used in informal conversations.
- For example, “She’s been living with Sidosa for years.”
- In a support group for individuals with HIV, someone might share, “I was diagnosed with Sidosa last year.”
- Another might ask, “Do you know anyone who’s been affected by Sidosa?”
14. The bug
This term is used to refer to the AIDS virus. It is often used informally and can carry negative connotations.
- For instance, “He caught the bug and his health started deteriorating.”
- In a conversation about HIV transmission, someone might say, “It’s important to protect yourself from the bug.”
- Another might comment, “The bug is still a major global health issue.”
15. The monster
This term is used to refer to AIDS, emphasizing the severity and impact of the disease. It can carry a sense of fear or dread.
- For example, “He’s been fighting the monster for years.”
- In a discussion about the history of AIDS, someone might mention, “The world was unprepared for the monster that emerged in the 1980s.”
- Another might say, “We need to continue raising funds for research to defeat the monster.”
16. The enemy
This term refers to the virus or disease itself, often used in a derogatory or negative way. It implies that HIV/AIDS is an adversary or threat that needs to be fought against or defeated.
- For example, someone might say, “We need to find a cure for the enemy.”
- In discussions about prevention and treatment, one might hear, “Protect yourself from the enemy by practicing safe sex.”
- A person discussing the impact of HIV/AIDS might say, “The enemy has taken so many lives and continues to affect communities worldwide.”
17. The invader
Similar to “the enemy,” this term portrays HIV/AIDS as an unwelcome force that enters and disrupts the body. It suggests that the virus invades and takes control, causing harm and damage.
- For instance, someone might say, “We need to find a way to stop the invader from spreading.”
- In discussions about transmission, one might hear, “The invader can enter the body through unprotected sex or sharing needles.”
- A healthcare professional might explain, “The invader attacks the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.”
18. The intruder
Similar to “the invader” and “the enemy,” this term portrays HIV/AIDS as an unwanted presence that intrudes upon and disrupts the body’s normal functioning. It emphasizes the idea that the virus is an intruder that doesn’t belong.
- For example, someone might say, “We need to find a way to evict the intruder from the body.”
- In discussions about prevention, one might hear, “Protect yourself from the intruder by using condoms.”
- A person discussing the impact of HIV/AIDS might say, “The intruder weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to other illnesses.”
19. The infiltrator
Similar to “the invader” and “the enemy,” this term portrays HIV/AIDS as a stealthy and secretive force that infiltrates the body without detection. It suggests that the virus infiltrates and spreads, often without the person being aware.
- For instance, someone might say, “Regular testing is important to catch the infiltrator early.”
- In discussions about transmission, one might hear, “The infiltrator can be passed from mother to child during childbirth.”
- A healthcare professional might explain, “The infiltrator can remain dormant in the body for years before symptoms appear.”
20. The attacker
Similar to “the enemy” and “the invader,” this term portrays HIV/AIDS as an aggressive force that attacks and harms the body’s immune system. It emphasizes the idea that the virus is a relentless attacker that can cause serious damage.
- For example, someone might say, “We need to find a way to defend against the attacker.”
- In discussions about treatment, one might hear, “Antiretroviral therapy helps slow down the attacker and preserve immune function.”
- A person discussing the impact of HIV/AIDS might say, “The attacker weakens the body’s defense system, making it susceptible to opportunistic infections.”
21. The Clap
The term “The Clap” is a slang term used to refer to the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. It originated from the treatment of the infection, which involved clapping the penis to express discharge.
- For example, someone might say, “I heard he got the clap from his last partner.”
- In a conversation about safe sex, one might warn, “Always use protection to avoid getting the clap.”
- A healthcare professional might educate, “Gonorrhea, also known as the clap, is a common sexually transmitted infection that can be treated with antibiotics.”
22. The Drip
“The Drip” is a slang term used to refer to the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. It stems from the symptom of a discharge or “drip” from the genitals that can occur with the infection.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s been experiencing the drip since his last sexual encounter.”
- In a discussion about safe sex practices, one might emphasize, “Getting tested regularly can help prevent the spread of the drip.”
- A healthcare provider might explain, “Gonorrhea, commonly known as the drip, is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact.”
23. The Pox
The term “The Pox” is a slang term used to refer to the sexually transmitted infection syphilis. It originated from the characteristic skin rashes and sores that can develop with the infection.
- For example, someone might say, “He contracted the pox from his partner.”
- In a conversation about the importance of safe sex, one might warn, “Protect yourself to avoid getting the pox.”
- A healthcare professional might educate, “Syphilis, also known as the pox, is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.”
24. The French Disease
The term “The French Disease” is a historical slang term used to refer to the sexually transmitted infection syphilis. It originated from the belief that the disease was brought to Europe by French soldiers during military campaigns.
- For instance, someone might say, “In the past, syphilis was often referred to as the French disease.”
- In a discussion about the history of medicine, one might mention, “The French disease played a significant role in the development of early treatments.”
- A healthcare provider might explain, “Syphilis, also known as the French disease, is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.”
25. The Gift
The term “The Gift” is a slang term used to refer to the sexually transmitted infection HIV/AIDS. It originated from the idea that the infection is a “gift” that keeps on giving due to its lifelong impact on the infected individual.
- For example, someone might say, “He received the gift from his previous partner.”
- In a conversation about the importance of safe sex and regular testing, one might emphasize, “Protect yourself to avoid receiving the gift.”
- A healthcare professional might educate, “HIV/AIDS, also known as the gift, is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, leading to a range of health complications.”
26. The Burn
Refers to being infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. “The Burn” is a slang term used to describe the initial symptoms or effects of HIV infection.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s got the burn,” to indicate that they believe someone has contracted HIV.
- In a conversation about safe sex practices, a person might say, “Protect yourself from the burn by using condoms.”
- Another might warn, “Don’t ignore the burn, get tested for HIV.”
27. The Itch
Similar to “The Burn,” “The Itch” is a slang term used to describe the initial symptoms or effects of HIV infection. It refers to the discomfort or uneasiness one may feel after contracting HIV.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s got the itch,” to suggest that someone is showing signs of HIV infection.
- In a discussion about the importance of regular testing, a person might say, “Don’t wait until you feel the itch, get tested for HIV now.”
- Another might emphasize, “The itch is a sign that you need to take your sexual health seriously.”
28. The Zombie Virus
This term is used metaphorically to refer to HIV infection. It implies that the virus slowly weakens and destroys the immune system, leaving the person vulnerable to various infections and diseases, similar to how a zombie is depicted as a reanimated corpse with no consciousness or control.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s been infected with the zombie virus,” to describe someone who has contracted HIV.
- In a conversation about the impact of HIV on individuals and communities, a person might say, “The zombie virus continues to devastate lives.”
- Another might advocate for awareness and prevention, saying, “Protect yourself from the zombie virus by practicing safe sex and getting tested regularly.”
29. The Big H
This slang term is derived from the term “the big hurt,” which refers to a major injury or trauma. In the context of HIV, “The Big H” is used to describe the significant impact and consequences of HIV infection on an individual’s health and life.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s got the big H,” to indicate that someone has contracted HIV.
- In a discussion about the stigma surrounding HIV, a person might say, “People need to understand that living with the big H is not a death sentence.”
- Another might emphasize the importance of support and care, saying, “We need to provide resources and compassion to those living with the big H.”
30. The Silent Killer
This term is used to describe HIV as a hidden and deadly virus that can slowly and silently damage the immune system without showing obvious symptoms. It highlights the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent the progression of HIV to AIDS.
- For example, someone might say, “HIV is the silent killer that people need to be aware of.”
- In a conversation about the impact of HIV on communities, a person might say, “We need to break the silence surrounding the silent killer.”
- Another might stress the importance of regular testing, saying, “Don’t let the silent killer go undetected, get tested for HIV regularly.”
31. HIV
A virus that attacks the immune system, causing a progressive failure of the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. It is the precursor to AIDS.
- For example, “He tested positive for HIV.”
- In a discussion about safe sex practices, someone might say, “Protect yourself from HIV by using condoms.”
- A healthcare professional might explain, “HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy, allowing individuals to live long and healthy lives.”
32. AIDS
A chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is characterized by a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.
- For instance, a healthcare professional might explain, “AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.”
- A person might share their personal experience, saying, “Being diagnosed with AIDS was a turning point in my life. It made me prioritize my health and seek proper treatment.”
- In a discussion about HIV prevention, someone might state, “Getting tested regularly is crucial to prevent the progression from HIV to AIDS.”
33. PWA
An individual who has been diagnosed with AIDS. The term is used to emphasize the person rather than the disease.
- For example, a support group might start a meeting by saying, “Today, we have several PWAs joining us to share their experiences.”
- A healthcare provider might ask a PWA, “How are you managing your symptoms and side effects?”
- In a conversation about stigma, someone might say, “We need to treat PWAs with compassion and understanding.”
34. OI
Infections that occur in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. These infections are caused by organisms that do not typically cause illness in people with healthy immune systems.
- For instance, a doctor might explain, “Pneumocystis pneumonia is a common opportunistic infection in individuals with OI.”
- A person living with HIV might discuss their experience with OIs, saying, “I’ve had a few OIs over the years, but with proper treatment, I’ve been able to manage them.”
- In a support group, someone might ask, “Has anyone found effective ways to prevent OIs?”
35. HAART
A combination of medications used to treat HIV infection. HAART typically involves taking a combination of three or more antiretroviral drugs to suppress the virus and slow down the progression of HIV.
- For example, a doctor might explain, “HAART has revolutionized HIV treatment and significantly improved the quality of life for people living with the virus.”
- A person living with HIV might discuss their experience with HAART, saying, “Finding the right combination of medications for HAART took some trial and error, but it has been worth it.”
- In a conversation about HIV treatment options, someone might say, “HAART is the gold standard for managing HIV and preventing the progression to AIDS.”
36. Viral Suppression
Viral suppression refers to the reduction of the amount of HIV in a person’s body to undetectable levels. It is achieved through consistent and effective use of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Viral suppression is crucial for maintaining the health of people living with HIV and preventing transmission of the virus.
- For example, a doctor might say, “With proper medication adherence, we can achieve viral suppression in most patients.”
- A person living with HIV might share, “I’ve been undetectable for five years thanks to viral suppression.”
- In a discussion about HIV prevention, someone might mention, “Viral suppression is an important component of the ‘Undetectable = Untransmittable’ (U=U) campaign.”
37. Condoms
Condoms are a form of barrier contraceptive made from latex or other materials. They are used to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, during sexual intercourse. Condoms are an effective and widely accessible method of protection.
- For instance, a sex educator might say, “Always use condoms to protect yourself from STIs.”
- In a conversation about safe sex, someone might advise, “Don’t forget to bring condoms with you.”
- A person might share their experience, “Using condoms consistently has helped me stay HIV-negative.”
38. Stigma
Stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes associated with a particular condition or group of people. In the context of AIDS, stigma often manifests as discrimination, fear, and prejudice towards individuals living with HIV. Stigma can have significant social and psychological impacts on those affected by it.
- For example, a person might say, “Stigma makes it difficult for people living with HIV to disclose their status.”
- In a discussion about HIV awareness, someone might mention, “Fighting stigma is crucial for promoting testing and treatment.”
- A person might share their personal experience, “I faced stigma after disclosing my HIV status, but I refuse to let it define me.”
39. U=U
U=U is a campaign and slogan that highlights the scientific evidence showing that when a person living with HIV achieves and maintains an undetectable viral load through consistent use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), they cannot transmit the virus to their sexual partners. U=U aims to reduce HIV-related stigma and promote accurate information about HIV transmission.
- For instance, a person might say, “U=U is empowering for people living with HIV and their partners.”
- In a conversation about HIV prevention, someone might mention, “Knowing about U=U can help reduce anxiety and improve sexual health.”
- A healthcare provider might inform their patient, “With viral suppression, you can confidently say U=U.”
40. Serodiscordant
Serodiscordant is a term used to describe a couple or partnership in which one person is living with HIV (HIV-positive) and the other is HIV-negative. It acknowledges the difference in HIV status between partners and highlights the importance of open communication, mutual support, and safer sex practices in maintaining a healthy relationship.
- For example, a person might say, “My partner and I are serodiscordant, but we take precautions to protect each other.”
- In a discussion about relationships, someone might mention, “Serodiscordant couples can have fulfilling and healthy partnerships.”
- A support group facilitator might say, “Our group provides a safe space for serodiscordant couples to share their experiences and support each other.”