ukers

Ukers is a colloquial term used to refer to people who play the ukulele. It is an informal label that appears in casual conversation, online communities, and hobbyist circles. It is not a formal designation in music terminology.

Origin and usage: The word is formed from the instrument’s nickname “uke,” combined with the agentive suffix “-er,” to designate someone who plays the ukulele. The plural is commonly written as “ukers.” Some speakers also use “uke players” or “ukulele players” depending on context. Capitalization varies; some communities capitalize the term as a proper noun when referring to a specific group, but this is not standardized.

Connotation and context: In most contexts, “ukers” denotes hobbyists and performers who share an interest in the instrument. The tone can range from neutral to affectionate or playful, and it is generally found more often in informal settings, such as social media posts, forums, and local jam sessions, rather than in formal music terminology or scholarly writing.

Variations and related terms: People who prefer different wording may use “ukulele players,” “ukulele enthusiasts,” or simply “ukulele players” to describe the same group. The term is one of several informal labels used within the broader ukulele community to foster a sense of identity and shared activity without implying professional status.