What's pokie slang for?

What Does "Pokie" Mean in Slang?

When someone mentions "pokie," the meaning can vary depending on context—and location. In Australia and New Zealand, "pokie" is commonly short for "pokie machine," the local slang for a slot machine. So, "playing the pokies" usually means trying your luck at the casino or pub with those flashy, beeping games.

But there's another, less formal use of the word that’s rooted in cheeky, colloquial slang. In certain circles, particularly in British or informal speech, "pokies" can refer to a woman’s nipples—especially when they’re visibly erect due to cold or arousal. It's the plural form of "poky," a playful, slightly irreverent term derived from the idea of something "poking out." While this usage isn’t exactly dinner-table conversation, it pops up in casual banter or risqué humor.

Language is full of surprises, and words like "pokie" show how meaning shifts with tone, region, and intent. One person’s gaming night is another’s cheeky innuendo. Context is everything.

It's worth noting that while the term might be used lightly among friends, it's the kind of slang that’s best kept in casual settings. Used carelessly, it can come across as crude or disrespectful. Like many bits of informal language, it walks a fine line between humor and offense—depending on who’s using it and when.