Teen Slang · Social & friendship

What does “It's giving…” mean?

'It conveys / it has the vibe of.' 'It's giving main character', 'it's giving desperate.'

Where “It's giving…” comes from

From Black queer and ballroom culture, mainstreamed via 'RuPaul's Drag Race' and TikTok around 2021.

Why teens actually say it

A flexible way to describe the impression something makes — outfit, mood, or whole situation.

What it means for you as a parent

Harmless. Mostly just a stylish way to say 'this gives off the energy of…'.

How it’s used

  • “This outfit? It’s giving main character.” Naming the vibe something gives off. Playful and stylish.
  • “His apology? It’s giving fake.” Reading an insincere vibe off someone. Lightly skeptical.

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