hajs
money, cash, dough (slang)
Pronunciation
/xajs/
Cultural Note
'Hajs' is the most popular slang word for money in Polish, used across all youth demographics. Its origin is debated — possibly from Hebrew 'chaj' (life) or German Gaunersprache (thieves' cant). It entered mainstream Polish through street culture and rap. 'Mieć hajs' (to have cash) and 'robić hajs' (to make money) are everyday expressions. There are many Polish slang words for money ('kasa,' 'flota,' 'szmal,' 'bańka'), but 'hajs' is currently the most popular among younger speakers. It's casual but not vulgar — you could use it with friends but not in a job interview.
📝 Example Sentences
Nie mam hajsu, pożyczysz mi stówę?
I don't have cash, can you lend me a hundred?
Ta praca daje niezły hajs.
This job pays good money.