Understanding Prison Slang

When I received my first call from a loved one in prison, it was clear there was an entirely different language I needed to learn. The first term was “Swamper.” Below is a list of a few terms that might help you understand terminology when your loved one reaches out.

Living and Housing

• Cellie / Celly / Bunkie — A cellmate; the person someone shares a cell or bunk with.

• Tier / Pod — A row or section of cells within a housing unit.

• PC (Protective Custody) — Housing for inmates who request protection or are vulnerable, not the same as solitary.

• Hole / The Hole — Solitary confinement; used for punishment or safety separation.

• Block — A larger housing area that contains multiple tiers or pods.

Daily Life and Work

• Swamper — Inmate assigned to helping other inmates understand the system. Also can be referred to inmates with cleaning duties (bathrooms, common areas).

• Kitchen / Chow / Brownies — Work in the kitchen; those assigned there often get food access and small perks.

• Commissary / Store — The prison shop where inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and supplies.

• Spread — A shared meal made from commissary items.

• Cadillac job — A desirable assignment with easier work or better access to goods.

Social Structure and Safety

• Car — The social group or crew an inmate associates with (often by race, age, or gang).

• Shot caller — Someone who makes decisions or gives orders for a group or gang inside.

• Green light — A signal that someone is being targeted for assault; a serious safety concern.

• Check in — To request protective custody or report feeling unsafe.

• Ride — To defend or back someone up in conflicts.

Communication, Rules, and Conflict

• Kite — A written note passed between inmates or to staff; can be informal or a request.

• JPay / Securus / Getting Out/ ICSolutions — Electronic systems used for email, video visits, and sending money.

• Shot / 115 / Write-up — A disciplinary report or infraction that can lead to sanctions.

• Squash — To resolve or de-escalate a conflict.

• Snitch / Rat — Someone who informs staff about other inmates; carries heavy stigma and risk.

Health, Contraband, and Risk

• Fish — A new or inexperienced inmate.

• Burner / Cell phone — Contraband phones used to communicate off-site.

• Bindle / Dope / Brake fluid — Slang for drugs or drug use; terms vary by region.

• BB filler — Someone very ill or likely to die in custody (grim slang).

• Shakedown — A search of cells and common areas for contraband.

Time, Sentences, and Status

• Bid — The length of a prison sentence.

• All day / All day and a night — Life sentence; life without parole.

• Back door parole — Slang for dying in custody.

• Catch a ride / Roll up — To be transferred to another facility.