Chonga is a term primarily used in Miami and South Florida to describe a subculture of young women, particularly of a Cuban or Hispanic background, that stereotypically behave like "gangsters," exhibiting sassiness and traits associated with the sexual liberation movement. Though this word is often used pejoratively, there are many women in Florida that reclaim the word and proudly identify with it, especially in the context of empowering working-class women.

The term " chonga " is thought to be derived from " chusma ," which is a derogatory term in South America describing rude or vulgar people. Chonga was later used as a derogatory term towards women who rejected misogynistic fashion standards and exhibited traits stereotypically associated with "prostitution."

The Chonga subculture originated in the working-class Cuban-American communities of South Florida, particularly in Miami, Hialeah, and Little Havana. The exact etymology of the word remains unclear, but it shares roots with other Spanish words such as " chola " (Mexican-American youth subculture in California), " chusma " (referring to annoying people), " chocha " (slang word for female genitalia), and " choni " (similar subculture from Southern Spain). Most of these terms carry connotations related to gender, social class, and non-dominant cultures in a specific region. Some scholars suggest that the term was initially used by "elite" Cuban-Americans to distance themselves from those they perceive as marginalized, especially Afro-Cubans and African Americans, especially Chongas' association with hip-hop culture.

Scholar Jillian Hernandez, in her book Aesthetics of Excess: The Art and Politics of Black and Latina Embodiment , argues that Chongas challenged the pressure to assimilate to white American norms by embracing a new style of hair, nails, and makeup styles that celebrated their Latina identities as opposed to rejecting it, thus making "class burn."

It was initially viewed as "tacky" or "exotic" by older generations within the Hispanic community in the United States who valued a more "respectable" image. However, Chongas were often popular and influential among their peers. In 2007, the Chonga subculture went viral on social media when Miami teenagers Mimi Davila and Laura Di Lorenzo uploaded their " Chongalicious " video to YouTube. This parody of Fergie's " Fergilicious " also launched the girls' entertainment careers as "The Chonga Girls." The video quickly spread through MySpace, where clips were uploaded by teenagers. People sang the song in public, and some even set it as their ringtone.

The resurgence of Y2K / McBling fashion in recent years has led to a appreciation of the style.

Chongas wear combinations of tight and loose clothing, especially in bright colors. For example, oversized men's t-shirts are often worn with tight white pants and a visible thong. Makeup is typically applied heavily (thick eyeliner, dark lip liner, and eyeshadow). One of the most iconic accessories are large gold hoop earrings (sometimes engraved with names), which tend to be so large they could be "bracelets." Diamond stud earrings, gold bangle bracelets, and hair styled with gel are also really common. Footwear can vary but it is usually athletic or casual (including chancletas ), black ankle boots, or Chinese beaded slippers with ankle socks. Gold jewelry (chains, bracelets, rings) is frequently worn.

Chongas are first and foremost known for their confidence and rejecting traditional gender norms. They are outspoken and assertive, not afraid to stand out and be themselves. Some might see them as loud or arrogant, but they are simply owning their style and expressing their cultural identity. Being a Chonga is about being proud of who you are and not letting anyone tell you how to act or look or falling into the pressure of cultural assimilation. They often speak Spanglish, the non-standard combination of English and Spanish, which is common in South Florida's Hispanic communities. Though Chongas were historically stereotyped and viewed negatively, it is being reclaimed by young Latinas as a symbol of empowerment and cultural pride.

Chongas often speak in a mix of poorly imitated AAVE (African-American Vernacular English) and a strong Caribbean Spanish accent, frequently code-switching or using Spanglish. They also have a distinctive way of writing, with misspellings, symbol substitutions (like backward F's, double I's, and 3 for E), and slang. This can be seen in graffiti, MySpace profiles, and on social media.

Chongas primarily listen to reggaetón, hip-hop , R&B, and rap.