EDM Slang Terms: The Ultimate Rave Language Dictionary
Rave language decoded — the most common EDM phrases & rave slang, explained clearly.
Electronic Dance Music culture comes with its own vocabulary. This guide to EDM Slang Terms breaks down the most-used EDM phrases and rave slang so you can feel at home at your next show or festival. Expect clear definitions, real-world examples, and quick context. Updated on August 10, 2025.
Source: House Wub
Whether you’re swapping Kandi or chasing a sunrise set, knowing the lingo helps. Use this quick-reference to decode the scene—and bookmark it for later.
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EDM Dictionary: Key EDM Slang Terms Explained
Below is an A–Z list of essential EDM slang terms. Each quick definition keeps things simple, with context from real shows and festivals.
EDM Slang Terms
Afters — post‑show hangouts that keep the music going.
B2B (Back‑to‑Back) — two DJs alternating in one set.
Banger / Weapon — a surefire crowd‑pleaser that goes off.
BPM — tempo in beats per minute (house ~124–130; D&B ~170–180). See beats per minute and beatmatching.
Boiler Room (Set) — intimate, fan‑surrounded DJ session; explore Boiler Room.
Double Drop — lining up two drops to hit at once (D&B staple).
Drop — the explosive payoff after a build‑up.
Festival Lineup — the advertised list of artists/DJs by day or prominence.
ID — an unidentified/unreleased track teased in sets.
Kandi — beaded bracelets traded via the PLUR handshake.
PLUR — Peace, Love, Unity, Respect; culture code. Learn the PLUR meaning.
Rail Riding — holding the front barrier where bass hits hardest.
Rave Bae — your festival partner‑in‑crime (romantic or not).
Rinsed — a tune or sound played everywhere, all season.
Set Time / Closing Set — the scheduled slot; closers often go bigger.
Totem — a tall/creative sign to help your crew regroup.
Womps / Wubs — thick, modulated bass sounds (dubstep/bass).
Wook — free‑spirited, bass‑loving raver with hippie vibes (use respectfully).
Summary
Rave culture thrives on community and clarity. Knowing these EDM Slang Terms helps you navigate the dancefloor, from timing a drop to respecting PLUR. Expect house around 128 BPM and drum & bass near 174—details DJs use to craft journeys. For deeper context, browse iconic sessions on Boiler Room and read up on the history of beatmatching.
FAQs
How should I use rave slang respectfully? Keep it inclusive; avoid stereotyping (e.g., “wook”) unless self‑described.
What basics improve my night? Earplugs, hydration pack, comfy shoes, cashless setup.
Where can I learn more? See EDM subgenres, read about BPM, and explore sets on Boiler Room.
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