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What Does Bisquenkay Mean?
The word bisquenkay (also spelled biskwankay, biskankay) is a little know gem of Trini slang. It is used to describe something—or someone—that’s twisted, falling apart, or just not quite right. Think of it as the perfect descriptor for anything that looks awkward, bent up, or like it get a good lick and never recover properly.
The term can also be used for people—especially someone who moves awkwardly, has a clumsy gait, or even has a speech impediment. In typical Trini fashion, the word is colourful, expressive, and just a little bit cheeky.
Where It Come From?
According to The Dictionary of the English/Creole of Trinidad & Tobago by Lise Winer, bisquenkay has its roots in the Spanish word bizcuerno or bizcuerna. The Spanish terms refer to someone who is cross-eyed or has twisted limbs. The pronunciation in Trini dialect evolved to /biskwanke/, and the meaning broadened along the way. This is typical of how Trinidadian slang takes on a life of its own.
How Trinis Use It
In true Trinidadian style, bisquenkay is often dropped in casual conversation or used to throw picong. It’s the kind of word you pull out when something looking real mash-up. Or, when someone coming down the road looking like they lose a fight with gravity.
Here’s an example from a 1995 reference cited by Mendes:
“She screw so much she blasted thing come bisquankay.”
Translation? She twisted herself up so bad, her thing (whatever “thing” it is) end up all bent outta shape!
It could be a piece of furniture, a car bumper, or a Carnival costume that didn’t survive J’ouvert. If it looking warped and weary, it’s bisquenkay.
Everyday Examples
- “Boy, you see that old stove she have dey? That thing bisquenkay!”
- “After that fall he take, he walking like he gone bisquenkay yes.”
- “The chair wobbly bad—it real bisquenkay, doh sit down!”
A Word That Paints a Picture
Like many Trini slang words, bisquenkay doesn’t just describe—it paints a scene. It tells a story with sound and rhythm, and it’s loaded with cultural flavour. It’s a little humorous, a little biting, but always descriptive. Once you hear it, you know exactly what it means.