Brummie

Brummie is a demonym for residents of Birmingham, England, and, more specifically, for the distinctive Brummie dialect or accent associated with the city and surrounding West Midlands area. The term can refer to people from Birmingham as well as to the speech patterns that characterize local speech. The name derives from Brummagem, an historic spelling and nickname for Birmingham that has been used for centuries; over time, Brummie has come to denote both inhabitants and their speech.

The Brummie dialect is part of the West Midlands English family and is known for its characteristic pronunciation and rhythm. It features regional patterns that set it apart from other British accents, with considerable variation within neighborhoods and social groups. The dialect has contributed to local expressions and has appeared in literature, music, and broadcasting, helping to shape a recognizable regional voice.

In contemporary usage, Brummie identity is a common facet of local culture. Many residents identify with the term and its associations, while others may encounter stereotypes about Brummie speech from outside the region. Attitudes toward the accent have evolved over time, with younger speakers often incorporating Brummie features into broader speech repertoires. Media representations of Brummie speech have varied, ranging from affectionate portrayals to more critical depictions, reflecting broader debates about regional identity and linguistic diversity.