The term “mid” has gained popularity in recent years, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Reddit. If you’ve ever come across someone calling a movie, a song, or even a meal “mid,” you might have wondered what exactly it means. In this guide, we’ll break down the meaning of “mid” in slang, its origins, how it’s used, and examples to help you understand its context.
What Does ‘Mid’ Mean in Slang?
In slang, “mid” is a term used to describe something that is mediocre, average, or unimpressive. It is often used to express disappointment or a lack of enthusiasm about something that others may have hyped up.
Common Characteristics of ‘Mid’
- Not particularly bad but not great either – Something that is just “okay.”
- Fails to meet expectations – Used when something does not live up to its reputation.
- Used as a critique – Typically, calling something “mid” implies a negative connotation.
The Origin of the Slang Term ‘Mid’
The exact origin of “mid” as slang is unclear, but its usage has been traced back to hip-hop culture and wrestling communities. The term gained widespread recognition around 2021 when a viral TikTok video featured a wrestling promo in which AEW wrestler Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) referred to the state of Kentucky as “mid.”
Over time, social media users started adopting the term to criticize movies, music, fashion, and even food. The term quickly became a staple in online conversations.
How ‘Mid’ Is Used in Conversations
“Mid” can be applied to various contexts, from entertainment and fashion to sports and food. Here are some examples:
Entertainment
- “That movie was so mid. I don’t get why people love it so much.”
- “This new album is mid at best. The production feels lazy.”
Food & Drinks
- “I tried that new burger place. Honestly, it was mid.”
- “Everyone hypes up this coffee shop, but the latte was mid.”
Sports & Gaming
- “That player is mid. He’s not bad, but he’s nothing special either.”
- “This game had so much potential, but the gameplay is just mid.”
Fashion & Trends
- “That designer’s new collection is mid. Nothing stands out.”
- “These sneakers looked cool in pictures, but in person, they’re mid.”
Why ‘Mid’ Became Popular
The rise of “mid” can be attributed to social media, meme culture, and the shift in how people critique popular trends. The term allows users to quickly express disappointment without needing long explanations.
Memes and Virality
- The phrase “That’s mid” became a meme, leading to its widespread adoption.
- Influencers and content creators popularized the term through reaction videos and debates.
Social Media Trends
- TikTok, Twitter, and Reddit played a huge role in amplifying the term’s usage.
- Many users use “mid” as shorthand in reviews and casual critiques.
Is ‘Mid’ Always Negative?
While “mid” is generally used to express mediocrity, it doesn’t always have to be harshly negative. Sometimes, calling something “mid” simply means it’s average or decent but not worth the hype.
Neutral vs. Negative Uses
- Neutral: “That song was mid, but I didn’t hate it.”
- Negative: “How is this album getting so much praise? It’s mid.”
Alternative Words for ‘Mid’
If you want to mix up your vocabulary, here are some alternatives to “mid”:
- Mediocre – A formal way to say something is average.
- Overrated – Suggests that something is praised too much.
- Subpar – Implies that something is below expectations.
- Basic – Often used to describe something unoriginal or uninspired.
- Lackluster – Describes something that lacks excitement or quality.
Conclusion
The slang term “mid” has become a go-to expression for describing anything that feels underwhelming or average. Its origins in hip-hop and wrestling culture, combined with its spread on social media, have made it a staple in modern internet lingo. Whether you’re critiquing a movie, a meal, or a trend, “mid” provides a quick and effective way to express your opinion.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is intended to provide a general understanding of the slang term “mid.” Language and slang evolve over time, and usage may vary based on cultural context and social trends.
