savage

What it means

Describes someone or something that's brutally bold, ruthless, or unfiltered — often as a compliment for a fearless comeback or a savage roast. It celebrates someone who shows zero hesitation and no mercy.

Examples

• She replied 'who's asking' and left, absolutely savage.
• That diss track was savage, he didn't hold back at all.
• Going to your ex's wedding uninvited? That's savage behavior.
• My grandma roasting my haircut at dinner was savage.

Where it comes from

A long-standing English word reframed by hip-hop and internet culture to mean fearlessly ruthless. It surged around 2016 and got a second wind from Megan Thee Stallion's 2020 hit 'Savage.'

Related slang