Coined for the title of the 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire by blending slum with underdog. Director Danny Boyle explained the word as joining the main character’s slum background to his underdog story. The dog element led residents and activists in India to condemn the title as demeaning.
What does slumdog mean?
Slumdog is an insulting label for a person who lives in an urban slum, especially in discussion of India after Slumdog Millionaire.
Is slumdog offensive?
Yes. The label can demean people by joining their living conditions with dog, so neutral writing should use slum resident or slum dweller.
Where did slumdog come from?
Slumdog was coined for the 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire as a blend of slum and underdog.
How do you pronounce slumdog?
In General American English, slumdog is pronounced /ˈslʌmˌdɔɡ/.
What is the plural of slumdog?
The regular plural is slumdogs, though the plural is just as likely to sound insulting.