Definition & Meaning of "bruv"in English

What does "bruv" mean in British slang?

The structure is a clipped shortening of "brother," dropping the middle syllables and altering the vowel sound for a quicker, more casual address. It is used in British English, especially in London and Multicultural London English (MLE), to mean a close male friend or to address a male directly, similar to "bro" or "mate." People typically say "Alright bruv?" or "Thanks, bruv." The term originated in working class British speech during the late 20th century, later spreading through grime music and youth culture, and remains common across the UK.