PDF download Download Article
Defining this popular slang term and showing you how to use it
PDF download Download Article

Blud. You’ve seen the word pop up on your TikTok FYP (For You Page), and now you’re left questioning what it even means. “Blud” is a popular slang term used on TikTok (and other social media platforms) to describe a male friend. Think of it like using the word “bro” or “dude.” So, where does this slang term come from, and how can you use it? Keep reading to find out!

“Blud” Meaning

“Blud” means “friend” or “bro” on TikTok. This trendy term comes from the Jamaican slang used to describe and greet male friends. The term can be used to replace words such as “mate,” “brother,” or “dude.”

Section 1 of 4:

What does “blud” mean?

PDF download Download Article
  1. On TikTok, “blud” is often used to express friendship or brotherhood. The term is often an informal greeting amongst male acquaintances and friends. Think of it like calling someone a “mate” or “bro.”[1]
    • “Blud” and “bruv” are often used interchangeably on TikTok; they mean the same thing.
    • Some people may take offense to “blud” or find it derogatory, especially if it’s coming from someone outside of Jamaican or Black culture. While the intent behind “blud” on TikTok is usually harmless, keep this in mind when using the term.
  2. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

“Blud” History & Origins

PDF download Download Article
  1. Before it became popular on TikTok, “blud” was a commonly used term in Jamaican culture. Men typically used the term to address other men.[2]
    • Over time, the term lost its negative connotation and became a positive, informal greeting used between men. For instance, someone may say, “Wagwan blud?” which means, “What’s going on, brother?”[3]
  2. The English shortened the phrase to “blud,” adopting the Jamaican word to use similarly to “mate,” “bro,” or “friend.” This now common usage of the word indicates a close friendship or bond between men, especially in the UK.[4]
  3. In the UK's gang culture, “blud” has a similar meaning and connotation to the N-word in the US; however, it’s not connected to race. The term is equally offensive when used by and against white and Black gang members.[5] Think of it as a heated way of saying “bro” or “brother.”
  4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 4:

How to Use “Blud” on TikTok

PDF download Download Article
  1. If you’re talking about or to a male friend on TikTok, be trendy by calling him “blud.” This usage works best when you’re being silly, sarcastic, or self-depreciating. Swap “bro,” “bruh,” “dude,” or “friend” with “blud” when captioning or adding text to a post, or use it when commenting on TikToks or DMing your male pals.
    • “What is blud talking about? 😂”
    • “Hanging out with the blud 💯🔥”
    • “Blud needs help yo”
    • “What is blud doing? Smh”
    • “Blud, you good? 😳”
    • “You feel me, blud?”
Section 4 of 4:

Other Popular TikTok Slang

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Blud” isn’t the only slang term on TikTok! Stay in the know and learn the TikTok lingo by checking out these common slang words and phrases below:[6]
    • Gyatt: A shortened form of “goddamn” to describe an attractive woman.
    • Heather: Someone beautiful, desirable, and overall superior.
    • Cheugy: Something or someone that’s outdated or uncool.
    • Bussin: Something exceptionally good.
  2. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement

Video

Tips

Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

You Might Also Like

Bruh MeaningWhat Does “Bruh” Mean? History, Usage, and Examples
Wagwan MeaningWhat Does "Wagwan" Mean?
Roadman SlangThe Ultimate List of Roadman Slang Terms (& How to Use Them)
Slang for FriendPopular Slang Terms for Friends: American, British & More
Mandem MeaningWhat Does Mandem Mean? A Guide for Non-Brits
Broski MeaningWhat Does It Mean When Someone Says “Broski?”
Huzz MeaningWhat Does “Huzz” Mean on TikTok and Where Did It Come From?
What Does Bub Mean in a RelationshipWhat Does Bub Mean in a Relationship?
Understand Gen Z SlangUnderstand Gen Z Slang
Bomboclat MeaningWhat Does “Bomboclat” Mean? (Plus, When & How to Use It)
What Does It Mean when Someone Says WordWhat Does "Word" Mean? How to Respond In Person & Over Text
Scottish Slang100+ Scottish Slang Words & Expressions (+ What They Mean)
Gen Alpha SlangThe Dictionary of Gen Alpha Slang: Terms Parents Should Know
Bbf MeaningWhat Does “BBF” Mean? (Plus, When & How to Use It)
Advertisement

About This Article

Candace Gasper
Reviewed by:
Social Media & Digital Marketing Consultant
This article was reviewed by Candace Gasper and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Candace Gasper is a Social Media & Digital Marketing Consultant and the Owner of Digital Candy, a social media agency. With over seven years of professional experience, Candace is an expert in social media and content creation, specializing in working with local businesses to share their narratives and help them expand their reach. Candace received her Bachelor of Science in Merchandising, Apparels, and Textiles from the University of Kentucky. This article has been viewed 41,914 times.
14 votes - 70%
Co-authors: 6
Updated: March 28, 2024
Views: 41,914
Categories: English Vocabulary
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 41,914 times.

Did this article help you?

Advertisement