Teen Slang · Social & friendship

What does “BDE” mean?

'Big d--- energy' — confident, unbothered swagger without trying.

Where “BDE” comes from

Coined on Twitter in 2018 about a specific celebrity comment; widely adopted as compliment slang.

Why teens actually say it

Praises quiet, secure confidence.

What it means for you as a parent

Contains a hidden anatomical reference. Mostly used metaphorically as a compliment.

How it’s used

  • “He didn’t even flinch, that’s BDE.” Admiring calm, effortless confidence. Said approvingly.
  • “She walked in late and owned it, real BDE.” Praising someone’s unbothered swagger. Impressed.

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