Is it a swear word?
Yes — Wanker is considered a swear word, though its severity varies by context and region.
What does it mean?
A British insult literally meaning someone who masturbates, but used to describe a contemptible, arrogant, or obnoxious person — especially a man. It carries a connotation of someone who thinks they're better than they are. The accompanying hand gesture (wrist flick) is instantly recognizable in the UK.
Is it offensive?
Strong in British English — it's a genuine insult, not playful banter. Calling someone a wanker to their face is confrontational. Among friends it can be used jokingly, but the default is hostile.
Can you say it at work?
Absolutely not. Even in the most casual British workplace, calling someone a wanker would be treated as a serious insult. Might be used to describe absent third parties ("that client is a right wanker") but never to someone's face.
Regional differences
A staple British insult. Particularly used in road rage and to describe pompous or self-important people. Very common in British comedy.
Known but rarely used. Americans recognize it as a British insult (often from movies) but wouldn't naturally use it. It sounds somewhat comical to American ears.
Used and well-understood. Carries the same weight as in the UK. Australians use it fairly commonly.
Safer alternatives
Examples
- “That driver just cut me off — what a wanker!”
- “Stop being such a wanker and help out.”
- “He acts like a complete wanker at parties.”