Shank
/SHANK/ noun
≈ “Person (neutral to derogatory)”
Glader slang for 'person.' Can be neutral ('that shank over there') or insulting ('stupid shank') depending on context and tone. One of the Gladers' most-used terms.
“Listen up, you shanks. We need to figure this out.”— Thomas (Dylan O'Brien), various Gladers
Etymology
Part of the Glader vocabulary that developed among memory-wiped teenagers. May derive from 'shank' (a makeshift weapon) — in the Glade, everyone is potentially dangerous.
Usage History
Used throughout The Maze Runner trilogy (2009-2016) and films (2014-2018).
Taboo Trajectory
Mildly vulgar when used as an insult. Neutral when used as a general term for 'person.' The dual nature mirrors real-world slang like 'dude.'
Semantic Drift Timeline
Consistent throughout the trilogy. Used by all Gladers regardless of status.
Regional Notes
Used exclusively within the Glade and by escaped Gladers.
Real-World Euphemisms
DudeGuyJerkPunk