Rječnik šatrovačkog govora

Originally associated with Romani words and secret codes, Šatrovacki developed as urban slang, especially in Zagreb, Belgrade and Sarajevo, and was used by subcultures, youth and criminal groups. The main feature of šatra is the inversion of syllables (e.g. “pivo” becomes “vopi”), creating a coded language incomprehensible to outsiders, such as the police or parents.

Sabljak, a writer and scientist, has been collecting words since 1956, inspired by the work of linguist Julije Benešić and by collaborating with informants such as criminals and Zagreb street talkers. The dictionary contains around 2,000 entries, including terms from Zagreb’s neighborhoods and prison communities, with explanations of meaning and context. The work not only captures linguistic creativity, but also provides insight into the social dynamics of the former Yugoslavia. Sabljak emphasizes the fluidity and playfulness of šatra, which is constantly evolving, reflecting the spirit of urban subcultures.