A new identity is emerging on the streets of Istanbul, Turkey as demonstrators have taken on one particular word, "chapulling", which they say symbolizes their defiance against its government as protests continue.
It is a term that more and more protestors are using with alarming frequency. As demonstrations in the center of Turkey's largest cities create a language of their own. The activists say they are "chapulling".
When the protests first began at the end of May - it was about a park. People opposed the government abolishing yet another green space in favor of a big construction project. Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan went on national television to denounce the thousands protesting at Istanbul's Gezi Park.
He called them "chapulcu", which translates as "looters" in English, and his intention was to insult them, protestors say.
But while the Prime Minister saw "chapulcu" as a term of insult, people at the Gezi Park have begun wearing the term as a badge of honor. They say they are not vandals, but citizens ready to fight for a good cause.
"'Chapulling' is a movement of people who think for themselves," said one protestor, in support of the protests.
The protests were peaceful in the beginning. But as the police used forceful methods including tear gas and water cannon in at least six cities across the country, the demonstrations turned from being an environmental protest into an anti-government movement. Now people are fighting for their rights.
"'Chapulling' is to have courage against government and police forces and to defend your rights and constitutional rights," said a resident.
Chapulling is now a term that has its place in Wikipedia and in Turkish/English dictionaries - defined as a verb meaning "to fight for your rights" or "to demand fair treatment as a human being".
The new language and the demonstrations will most likely mark an important chapter in Turkeys' history. It presents a challenge that the ruling Justice and Development Party has never faced before. REUTERS