Where "Veggo" Comes From
"Veggo" applies the "-o" suffix to "veg-" (from "vegetarian"), creating a casual, friendly shortening. It follows the same word-formation model as "arvo" and "smoko" — the "-o" suffix in Australian English, which originated from nautical calls like "smoke-oh!", conveys a robust, familiar tone rather than the diminutive quality of the "-ie/-y" suffix.
"Veggo" is used descriptively rather than dismissively — "she's a veggo" simply means she doesn't eat meat, without the edge that "vegetarian" can sometimes carry in conversation. It reflects a broader shift in Australian eating culture from the 1980s onwards, as vegetarianism became mainstream enough to earn its own affectionate nickname.
Source:
"She's a veggo, so skip the snags."
How Aussies Actually Use It
A casual, friendly way to describe someone's dietary preference — "she's a veggo, so skip the snags" is practical, considerate barbecue planning phrased in typically relaxed Aussie style.
It's used matter-of-factly rather than as a label with any judgment attached, reflecting how normalised vegetarianism has become in everyday conversation.
🎓 Want to sound like a true Aussie?
Watch Down Under English on YouTube for real Australian pronunciation, slang lessons, and culture — taught by an Australian educator.
Watch on YouTube →