the dozens
Competitive verbal sparring
The dozens is a ritualized exchange of insults, typically between two participants trying to outdo each other with increasingly elaborate put-downs, often targeting the opponent's mother.
Rooted in African American verbal tradition, it tests wit and composure—losing your cool means losing.
They were playing the dozens on the corner.
Also called dirty dozens or simply dozens.
- insultsDisparaging remarks
- roast battleCompetitive comedic insulting
- snapsQuick fasteners or photos
- yo mamaTaunt's traditional subject
- yo mama jokesRitualized comedic maternal insults
signifying · call and response · trash talk · talking smack · disses · burns · crack on · capping · sounding · playing · clowning · comeback · verbal sparring · battle · verbal · street · street corner · jokes
the dozensverbal abuse
Harmful speech targeting someone
bullying · hate speech · fighting · assault · character assassination
the dozenspraise
Expression of approval
compliments · flattery · affirmation · tribute · sweet talk
the dozenstoast
Heated bread; glass-raising honor
roast · consensus building · eulogy · mutual aid · team building