What is the origin and context of use of 'word'?

The interjection "word" has its origins in African American Vernacular English and gained popularity in hip-hop culture during the late 20th century. It became widely used in various urban communities and eventually integrated into mainstream English slang. It's often used in contexts where individuals want to affirm the truthfulness or accuracy of what someone else has said, similar to saying "I understand," "I agree," or "That's correct."