throwing shade

Intermediate 📱 Gen-Z / Internet Slang

Definition

The act of expressing disapproval, disrespect, or subtle insult toward someone, usually through sarcasm, backhanded compliments, or pointed insinuation. It's indirect criticism that others notice.

Example Usage

She was totally throwing shade at his new haircut with that fake smile.

Origin

From AAVE, specifically ball culture and queer nightlife communities in the 1980s, where 'throwing shade' referred to witty, cutting remarks.

Fun Fact

The phrase became a mainstream phenomenon thanks to reality TV, pop music, and social media, where it's now used to call out minor slights and passive aggression.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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