galdem — ODE · Shobdo

galdem /ˈɡaldɛm

/ (also gyaldem)

▸ plural noun informal mainly British English (especially among black people) a person's female friends or close associates, particularly when considered as fellow members of a particular social or cultural group:

my galdem are the best

[treated as singular] reunited with my galdems and it felt so good.

▪ mainly West Indian English (usually gal dem) women collectively, or a group of women:

dear gyal dem: don't let nuhbaddy treat you like a walking consolation prize.

– ORIGIN early 20th century (in West Indian use): from gal1 + dem. Compare mandem.