The communication habits of people have transformed with the growing popularity of social media and online trends. The versatility and widespread use of slang, especially among teens and young adults, is strong evidence of this. However, slang terms can be a bit confusing for parents, leaving them wondering about their child’s online conversations. Recently, many parents have been wondering about the meaning of the term “thicc” and its uses. So, this guide will decode the “thicc”, how the slang is used, and why parents should be aware of it.
What does ‘Thicc’ mean?
Thicc is a play on the word “thick” in pronunciation. It is usually used to refer to an extra, full-figured, and curvy physique. A “Thicc” person is someone whose backside is noticeable and round, with wide hips. The waist tends to be of a small proportion, and this basically creates an hourglass shape. It is most commonly applied to women, sometimes to men, and even fictional characters. The term thicc is normally an adjective that has positive connotations, but it can even be sexual or objectifying in some contexts.
Thicc vs. Thick
The word thick is older than the word thicc. Thick was used in plenty of communities, specifically among African Americans, as meaning healthy, strong, or blissfully endowed. Eventually, the deliberate misspelling “Thicc” gained more popularity. The term thicc is used to indicate the admiration of curvature.
Understanding “thicc girl”
A “thicc girl” is describing a girl who is curvy. Rappers and R&B artists sing songs to boast about thicc girls. Social media users post memes, pictures, and hashtags to show such body types. Some women believe it helps in combating negative assessment of bigger bodies. Other people dislike and disapprove of being labeled as thicc.
The term has gained widespread popularity. Companies are seen marketing their brands with a “thicc” body. Online influencers share their posts about being thicc.
What does “thicc” mean for a guy?
Men are increasingly using the term thicc. Applied to males, thicc typically has a meaning of thick-set, muscular, or well-built. The term may be used in the form of acknowledgment of weightlifters or other athletes who are perceived as having a favorable muscular build. It is all about power and physical bulk.
To some young men, being called “thicc” can be an ego booster. These individuals feel admired because of their physical attributes. Other people may feel embarrassed or humiliated as it depends on the context. The connotation can change anytime between a kind compliment and a mocking.
Celebrate every curve, more confidence. Empowering teens to love themselves.
Origin and evolution of Thicc meaning
Thicc is an African American Vernacular English (AAVE) concept. They have been in use since at least the 1990s in Black communities. The original meaning was that of thick with positive connotations. The old-time hip-hop and rap music referred to thick women as the objects of desire, who were also the representation of beauty.
People began using “thicc” online as early as 2004. It reached hip-hop discussions and online image boards. Meme culture in the 2010s helped spread the term more widely. Sexy photos, viral videos, and popular hashtags on spaces like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram exposed people to this slang, transforming it into part of the vernacular speech of millions of teens.
Media and music were instrumental in the development of the term. Artists such as Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion have popularized curves through lyrics and music videos. Kardashians, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyonce were the subject of many memes, inspiring that they were thicc. Fashion brands, TV, and movie designs followed the trend. Social media, such as
The term became so popular that people started naming everything that is amusingly plump or cute as being thicc. e.g., Pikachu (a Pokémon character), dogs, or cats. These fun applications make thicc seem neither too severe nor too insulting.
How is “thicc” used by teens?
Teens eagerly pick up new slang and trends through pop culture. Nowadays, thicc is one of the most widely used compliments on social media among teenagers.
In conversations
Teens flatter each other with the phrase “Girl, you are thicc!”. They commonly use “thicc” and similar remarks in chats, posts, and viral trends on TikTok. Compliments are usually based on being confident and honest. Young people idolize individuals with their natural body image.
Memes
Thicc memes have taken over platforms such as Reddit, Instagram, and TikTok. Cartoon characters, celebrities, and sportsmen usually have the following captions: “When you realize your favorite superhero is thicc.” These memes are highly exaggerated in a humorous way.
Online expression
Adolescents apply the term thicc as hashtags on photographs: #thicc, #thiccqueen, or #datass. Such praise on friends’ photos can include comments like, “Serving thicc energy” or “Extra thicc today!” Others apply it using emojis like the peach to mean a butt or the eggplant as a sexual innuendo. Parents should, however, be cautious as some posts can be inappropriate or even sexualized.
Examples of ‘thicc’:
- (posts a picture of her bottom) Thicc and sexy! #ConfidentWoman
- No, girl! You aren’t just thicc! You are dummy thicc and fine!
- Big, thicc, curvyyyy. Love the body that I am in.
Cultural implications of “thicc” slang use
The term has redefined the topic of beauty. The media have glorified thinness for decades. Today, words such as thicc highlight alternative body types. The visible curves seen in people with larger body sizes are increasingly celebrated in music, marketing, and social media. Many young individuals are also motivated to love themselves in their unique form.
Thick or plus-size models and influencers publish #thicc content to spread self-love and build self-esteem. Brands such as Savage X Fenty, Aerie, and Fashion Nova have adverts with thicc bodies. Thicc allows positive self-statements regarding weight and body shape.
However, critics argue that the term objectifies women. Compliments in a sexual context are either uncomfortable or intrusive. It also places undue pressure on those girls who do not conform to the definition of thicc. The attempt to meet certain criteria may interfere with teens’ correct and healthy perceptions of body image. In some extreme cases, the pursuit of the thicc trend may inspire unhealthy activities, including unsafe eating, the use of supplements, or undergoing plastic surgery. Parents must be aware of these risks.
The role of social media
Social media has always established body standards at a fast pace. Influencers make posts on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube about how they have embraced their thiccness and strongness.
Teens may encounter posts that mock individuals perceived as too fat or discussions about equating this with value based solely on attractive looks. Harmful comparisons often bring on doubt, anxiety, and depression. It is especially damaging in areas where comments and likes bring validation.
Related slang terms and variations
Slang terms evolve quickly on the internet, and people attempt to amplify their meanings in certain conversations. The following list includes common “thicc” variations:
- Dummy Thicc: Exaggerated form of thicc. Usually humorous.
- Dumb Thicc: As in dummy thicc. Insists on being very curvy.
- Thicc Bih: Is a combination of thicc and bih, which is a slang term for a bi*ch. Depending on the context, it can be either affectionate or disrespectful.
- Slim thicc: This refers to a person whose waist is thin, whereas the hips or thighs are thick.
- Bootylicious: This term, made famous by Destiny’s Child, means curvy in a lovely way.
- Chonky: (usually of animals). Means good-looking fat or fat-round.
- Phat: Pretty hot and tempting. 90s slang term replacing the term hot among curvy ladies.
Why understand and talk to your teens about Thicc slang
Each generation has brought up its special phrases, and the meanings of some words even continue to evolve. The current popular teen slang terms of Gen Z and Gen Alpha are no exception.
1. Bridge the communication gap
Parents build trust by communicating openly with their children. Slang is dynamic, and genuine interest will help parents keep up with it. Knowing the meaning of the word thicc allows them to engage in productive discussions. By understanding the linguistics of children, they are more likely to seek advice on delicate matters.
2. Promote self-acceptance and self-esteem in the digital age
The pursuit of perfectionism begins at an early age. Teens compare themselves to other people on social media. When parents discuss slang words, they need to encourage critical thinking.
Help children appreciate all kinds of bodies. Have them respect individuality. Emphasize that kindness, intelligence, and creativity are far more important than looks.
3. Identify inappropriate content and contexts
The slang thicc is commonly used as a joke or as an expression of love and admiration. However, in other instances, it could be sexual or disrespectful depending on the context. People can sometimes objectify others by their body type and throw rude remarks in combination with the thicc slang. When misused, the term becomes harassment, and parents must identify it early.
Practical tips for open dialogue and safety
So, you’ll have to be patient and keep track of the following tips:
Listen first without judgment: Create an environment where children feel comfortable and are honest.
Start conversations with open-ended questions. Invite the child to share the slang they use. Stay informed about new terms.
Normalize body image talks. Encourage critical thinking about social media trends and voices about various body images. You can even ask, “Do you think these images are realistic?”
Set social media boundaries: Agree on screen time limits and monitor content together to ensure a healthy balance. Teach them what content is safe, respectful, and appropriate to share online.
Use monitoring tools: Apps like FlashGet Kids help you stay informed about your teen’s online activity without being intrusive. It offers real-time content filtering and app tracking.
Model healthy online behavior: Lead by example by using social media positively and responsibly. Spend more quality family time together and less time online.
Be transparent about mistakes and build trust: Let your teen know it’s okay not to have all the answers, and encourage asking questions and learning together.
Takeaways
Thicc has transformed society’s body image concept. Previously considered a niche lingo, it now puts more voluptuous bodies in the limelight. Influencers, celebrities, and brands contribute to the dissemination and evolution of the term. Teenagers often use thicc when complimenting or simply joking around. It promotes self-acceptance and reinforces positive body image. Parents should bridge the generation gap by understanding slang. It creates confidence and fosters healthy communication between parents and their children. Thicc is all about embracing all kinds of bodies on the internet and in real life.
