Raising What does mid mean? The kids' slang, explained for parents
What does mid mean? "Mid" means mediocre or so-so, and kids often use it to dismiss something other people like: "That movie was mid." It's short for "middle," spread on TikTok in the early 2020s, and is listed by Merriam-Webster. It's a mild put-down, aimed mostly at things rather than people.
Mid at a glance
| Means | Mediocre, so-so; often a put-down for something others like |
|---|---|
| From | Short for "middle"; spread on TikTok in the early 2020s source |
| Dictionary | Listed by Merriam-Webster source |
| Tone | A mild put-down |
Checked October 2026. Slang changes fast; meanings can differ between groups of kids.
What does mid mean?
Short answer: Mediocre.
- "That's mid" means it's average, not great.
- "Mid at best" is a stronger put-down.
Where mid comes from
According to Dictionary.com, "mid" is short for "middle" and was earlier slang for mid-grade marijuana. The general meaning, so-so, spread from about 2019 and became common on TikTok in the early 2020s. Merriam-Webster lists this sense.
Is mid an insult?
Short answer: Mildly. It's usually about things, like food or movies. Said about a person, it can sting.
The habit kids may copy: dismiss first
"Mid" ends a conversation: the thing is judged, done. Some kids start calling everything mid, especially what others like.
Try tonight: one thing you liked
When your child says "mid," ask: "What's one thing that was good about it?" In our program, this is the lesson "It's Not the Thing, It's the Thought": how we see things changes how they feel.
FAQ
What does mid mean in slang?
Mediocre or so-so: "That movie was mid."
Is mid a real word?
Yes. Merriam-Webster lists this sense.
Is mid an insult?
Mildly. It's usually about things; about a person it can sting.
Where does mid come from?
It's short for "middle" and spread on TikTok in the early 2020s.
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