Signifyin'

Signifyin' is a communication strategy rooted in African American oral tradition, where speakers use indirect, playful, or coded language—such as humor, irony, or double meanings—to convey messages, often to critique or comment on social issues subtly. It emphasizes cultural context and shared understanding, allowing individuals to express dissent or camaraderie without confrontation. Think of it as a nuanced form of expression that relies on knowledge of cultural cues, enabling layered communication that can be both clever and socially meaningful within the community.