skeezah

The term "skeezah" is primarily used by younger generations, millennials, and Gen Z in Hawaii as a slang insult to describe someone who is creepy, weird, or acting in a shady manner. It is often directed at individuals who make others feel uncomfortable, such as someone staring too long, making inappropriate comments, or lurking in places they shouldn't be.

While it is a casual slang word, it carries a distinctly negative and accusatory tone, making it inappropriate for professional settings or formal conversations. The word is a localized adaptation of the mainland 1980s and 90s hip-hop slang "skeezer," which originally referred to a promiscuous woman. In Hawaii, however, the meaning shifted away from its original gendered and sexualized roots, evolving into a general descriptor for any weirdo or creep, regardless of gender.

Jazzy took a long drag of her vape, leaning against the loading dock behind the Waikiki hotel. Her feet were killing her after an eight-hour housekeeping shift, and the last thing she wanted was to hear about the new night auditor. "I telling you, the guy gives me bad vibes," she muttered, glaring at the pavement. "He always hanging around the laundry room when he supposed to be at the front desk."

Her coworker, Leilani, rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. "For real. Yesterday he asked me what time I get off, then just stood there staring at my nametag for way too long. Total skeezah. I told him mind his own business and go back to the lobby."

Jazzy shook her head, stomping her shoe against the concrete. "Next time he comes down here acting all weird, I going report him to HR. I too tired to deal with one skeezah when I just trying to fold the towels and go home."