In a world where communication is increasingly digital, understanding slang and informal language is crucial. From playful banter to subtle insults, knowing the right words to use can make or break a conversation. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top slang for mean. Whether you want to spice up your vocabulary or simply stay in the loop, this listicle has got you covered. Get ready to add some sass to your language game!
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1. Savage
This term is used to describe someone who is extremely harsh or cruel in their actions or words. It can also be used to refer to something that is exceptionally impressive or intense.
- For example, “That comeback was savage!”
- In a discussion about a competitive game, someone might say, “He played a savage move that caught everyone off guard.”
- A person describing a difficult workout might say, “That workout was absolutely savage.”
2. Rude
This word is used to describe someone who is disrespectful or ill-mannered. It refers to behavior that is not considerate of others or violates social norms.
- For instance, “She made a rude comment about his appearance.”
- In a conversation about customer service, someone might say, “The cashier was so rude to me.”
- A person might recount, “I couldn’t believe how rude he was to the waiter.”
3. Nasty
This slang term is used to describe something that is unpleasant, offensive, or distasteful. It can also be used to describe someone who is mean-spirited or malicious.
- For example, “That food looks nasty.”
- In a discussion about a messy situation, someone might say, “Things got really nasty between them.”
- A person might say, “He has a reputation for being a nasty gossip.”
4. Cruel
This word is used to describe someone who takes pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others. It refers to behavior that lacks empathy or compassion.
- For instance, “He was cruel to the animals.”
- In a conversation about bullying, someone might say, “It’s important to stand up against cruel behavior.”
- A person might recount, “She told a cruel joke that hurt my feelings.”
5. Vicious
This term is used to describe someone who is extremely aggressive or violent in their actions or words. It can also be used to refer to something that is intense or severe.
- For example, “He launched a vicious attack on his opponent.”
- In a discussion about a heated argument, someone might say, “The exchange of words became vicious.”
- A person might say, “The storm unleashed a vicious wind that caused extensive damage.”
6. Harsh
This term is used to describe someone who is excessively critical or insensitive in their words or actions.
- For example, “She gave me some harsh feedback on my presentation.”
- In a heated argument, one person might say, “Don’t be so harsh, there’s no need to attack me.”
- A person might describe a strict teacher by saying, “Mrs. Johnson is known for her harsh grading policies.”
7. Meanie
This word is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner to describe someone who is being unkind or unpleasant.
- For instance, a parent might say to their child, “Don’t be a meanie, share your toys with your sister.”
- In a joking tone, one friend might say to another, “You’re such a meanie, always teasing me.”
- A person might describe a coworker who is consistently rude as a “office meanie.”
8. Jerk
This term is used to describe someone who is rude, inconsiderate, or behaves in an unkind manner.
- For example, “He’s such a jerk, he never listens to anyone else’s opinions.”
- In a disagreement, one person might say to another, “Stop being a jerk and try to understand my point of view.”
- A person might describe a driver who cuts them off in traffic as a “jerk.”
9. Bully
This word is used to describe someone who habitually seeks to harm, intimidate, or control others, often through physical or verbal aggression.
- For instance, “She’s been a bully since elementary school, always picking on others.”
- In a conversation about childhood experiences, one person might say, “I was bullied in middle school, and it had a lasting impact on my self-esteem.”
- A person might describe a boss who constantly belittles their employees as a “workplace bully.”
10. Snarky
This term is used to describe someone who makes sarcastic, cutting, or mocking remarks in a rude or condescending manner.
- For example, “She made a snarky comment about my outfit, even though I thought I looked nice.”
- In a discussion about a TV show, one person might say, “The main character always has the best snarky comebacks.”
- A person might describe a friend who constantly makes snarky remarks as “always being snarky.”
11. Cold-hearted
This term describes someone who is emotionally detached and shows no sympathy or kindness towards others. It implies a lack of warmth or care in their actions or behavior.
- For example, “She broke up with him without any remorse. She’s so cold-hearted.”
- In a discussion about a harsh decision, someone might say, “That was a cold-hearted move.”
- A person might describe a cruel action by saying, “That was a cold-hearted thing to do.”
12. Wicked
In this context, “wicked” is used to describe someone who is exceptionally nasty or malicious. It emphasizes the extreme level of meanness or cruelty displayed by the person.
- For instance, “She spread rumors about her friend just to ruin her reputation. That’s wicked.”
- In a conversation about a hurtful prank, someone might say, “That was a wicked thing to do.”
- A person might describe a harsh comment by saying, “That was a wicked remark.”
13. Heartless
This term describes someone who is completely devoid of any kindness or empathy towards others. It implies a complete disregard for the feelings or well-being of others.
- For example, “He ignored the pleas for help and walked away. He’s so heartless.”
- In a discussion about a callous act, someone might say, “That was a heartless thing to do.”
- A person might describe a cruel action by saying, “That was a heartless move.”
14. Brutal
When used to describe someone’s behavior, “brutal” implies an extreme level of harshness or cruelty. It suggests that the person’s actions or words were particularly severe or unrelenting.
- For instance, “He verbally attacked her with such brutal words.”
- In a conversation about a ruthless act, someone might say, “That was a brutal thing to do.”
- A person might describe a harsh comment by saying, “That was a brutal remark.”
15. Petty
This term refers to someone who engages in trivial or insignificant acts of meanness or spite. It implies a tendency to focus on minor details and hold grudges over insignificant matters.
- For example, “She refused to speak to him for days just because he forgot to text her back. She’s so petty.”
- In a discussion about a small act of revenge, someone might say, “That was a petty thing to do.”
- A person might describe a spiteful comment by saying, “That was a petty remark.”
16. Malevolent
Malevolent is an adjective used to describe someone or something that has or shows a wish to do evil or harm to others. It implies a deliberate intention to cause harm or suffering.
- For example, “He had a malevolent look in his eyes as he plotted his revenge.”
- In a discussion about villains, someone might say, “Malevolent characters like the Joker are often the most memorable.”
- A person describing a toxic relationship might say, “She had a malevolent personality that made everyone around her miserable.”
17. Nasty piece of work
This phrase is used to describe someone who is unpleasant, mean-spirited, or difficult to deal with. It implies that the person is not only mean but also has other negative qualities that make them undesirable.
- For instance, “He’s a nasty piece of work – always insulting others and causing trouble.”
- In a conversation about difficult colleagues, someone might say, “I have to deal with a nasty piece of work at my office.”
- A person describing a rude customer might say, “That customer was a real nasty piece of work.”
18. Rotten
Rotten is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is extremely unpleasant, mean, or nasty. It suggests a high level of meanness or cruelty.
- For example, “He treated his employees with rotten disrespect.”
- In a discussion about bullies, someone might say, “They made my school years miserable with their rotten behavior.”
- A person describing a terrible boss might say, “He’s a rotten person who takes pleasure in making others suffer.”
19. Cruddy
Cruddy is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is of poor quality, unpleasant, or mean. It suggests a low level of decency or moral character.
- For instance, “He made a cruddy comment about her appearance.”
- In a conversation about disrespectful behavior, someone might say, “His cruddy attitude ruins the atmosphere.”
- A person describing a rude customer might say, “That customer had a cruddy attitude and treated the staff poorly.”
20. Narky
Narky is an adjective used to describe someone who is easily annoyed, irritable, or bad-tempered. It suggests a tendency to respond with hostility or negativity.
- For example, “He’s always in a narky mood in the mornings.”
- In a discussion about difficult people, someone might say, “She can be quite narky when things don’t go her way.”
- A person describing a grumpy coworker might say, “He’s constantly narky and snaps at everyone around him.”
21. Snide
Snide is used to describe someone who makes sarcastic or derogatory remarks in a subtle or sneaky manner.
- For example, “She made a snide comment about my outfit when she thought I couldn’t hear.”
- In a conversation about a difficult coworker, someone might say, “He always has a snide remark ready whenever he disagrees with someone.”
- A person discussing a passive-aggressive friend might say, “She’s always making snide comments under her breath.”
22. Sour
Sour is used to describe someone who is unfriendly, grumpy, or unpleasant in their attitude or behavior.
- For instance, “He had a sour expression on his face when he heard the news.”
- In a discussion about customer service, someone might say, “The cashier’s sour attitude made the shopping experience unpleasant.”
- A person describing a negative interaction might say, “He gave me a sour look when I asked for help.”
23. Wicked witch
Wicked witch is a derogatory term used to describe a woman who is mean, unpleasant, or displays negative behavior.
- For example, “She’s always meddling in other people’s affairs. She’s a real wicked witch.”
- In a conversation about a difficult boss, someone might say, “Our wicked witch of a boss never praises our hard work.”
- A person discussing a rude neighbor might say, “She’s like the wicked witch of the neighborhood, always yelling at kids.”
24. Rudeboy
Rudeboy is a slang term used to describe a person, typically a young man, who is rude, disrespectful, or displays aggressive behavior.
- For instance, “He’s always starting fights and causing trouble. He’s a real rudeboy.”
- In a discussion about street culture, someone might say, “Rudeboys often use slang and adopt a tough persona.”
- A person describing an unpleasant encounter might say, “I had to deal with a group of rudeboys at the party.”
25. Asshole
Asshole is a vulgar term used to describe a person who is mean, obnoxious, or inconsiderate in their behavior.
- For example, “He’s always making offensive jokes and insulting people. He’s such an asshole.”
- In a conversation about bad drivers, someone might say, “That guy who cut me off is a total asshole.”
- A person discussing a difficult coworker might say, “Dealing with that asshole in the office is exhausting.”
26. Bitchy
This term is used to describe someone who is consistently irritable, rude, or unpleasant in their behavior.
- For example, “She’s always in a bitchy mood in the mornings.”
- A person might say, “Don’t be so bitchy, it’s just a joke.”
- In a discussion about coworkers, someone might comment, “There’s always that one bitchy person in the office.”
27. Unkind
This word refers to someone who lacks kindness or compassion in their actions or words.
- For instance, “He was unkind to his classmates and never showed any empathy.”
- A person might say, “It’s unkind to make fun of someone’s appearance.”
- In a conversation about relationships, someone might advise, “If your partner is consistently unkind, it may be time to reevaluate the relationship.”
28. Mean-spirited
This term describes someone who has a malicious or unkind nature in their actions or words.
- For example, “His mean-spirited comments were hurtful and unnecessary.”
- A person might say, “It’s important to avoid engaging in mean-spirited behavior.”
- In a discussion about online bullying, someone might comment, “Mean-spirited comments can have a lasting impact on a person’s mental health.”
29. Mean-mugging
This phrase is used to describe the act of giving someone a hostile or threatening look.
- For instance, “He walked into the room mean-mugging everyone.”
- A person might say, “I don’t know why she’s mean-mugging me, I’ve never done anything to her.”
- In a conversation about confrontations, someone might mention, “Mean-mugging someone can escalate a situation quickly.”
30. Hateful
This word refers to someone or something that is full of hate or intense dislike.
- For example, “His hateful comments towards certain groups were deeply offensive.”
- A person might say, “It’s important to promote love and understanding instead of spreading hateful ideologies.”
- In a discussion about online harassment, someone might comment, “Hateful messages can have severe emotional consequences on the recipient.”
31. Grumpy
This term refers to someone who is in a bad mood or easily annoyed. It suggests a person who is easily angered or displeased.
- For example, “Don’t talk to him right now, he’s feeling grumpy.”
- A parent might say, “My toddler is always grumpy when she doesn’t get her nap.”
- A friend might comment, “I’m feeling grumpy today, so I apologize if I seem a bit short-tempered.”
32. Mean-ass
This slang term intensifies the meaning of “mean” to describe someone who is exceptionally cruel or unkind.
- For instance, “She’s a mean-ass boss who never appreciates her employees.”
- In a discussion about bullies, someone might say, “He’s not just mean, he’s a mean-ass.”
- A friend might warn, “Watch out for that guy, he’s a mean-ass who enjoys causing trouble.”
33. Malicious
This term describes someone who has the intention to cause harm or suffering to others. It implies a deliberate and cruel nature.
- For example, “He spread malicious rumors about her to ruin her reputation.”
- In a legal context, a lawyer might argue, “The defendant acted with malicious intent.”
- A parent might say, “I don’t understand why someone would be so malicious towards a child.”
34. Evil
This word describes someone who is morally wrong or profoundly immoral. It suggests a person who takes pleasure in causing harm or suffering.
- For instance, “The evil villain plotted to destroy the world.”
- In a discussion about horror movies, someone might say, “The evil character gave me nightmares.”
- A person might comment, “There’s something unsettling about the evil smile on his face.”
35. Cruel-hearted
This term describes someone who lacks compassion or empathy towards others. It suggests a person who takes pleasure in causing pain or distress.
- For example, “The cruel-hearted boss fired employees without any remorse.”
- In a discussion about animal abuse, someone might say, “It takes a cruel-hearted person to harm innocent animals.”
- A friend might comment, “I can’t believe she would say something so cruel-hearted to her own sister.”
36. Catty
This term is often used to describe someone who is prone to making snide or malicious comments. It implies a level of gossip and backstabbing behavior.
- For example, “She’s always so catty towards her coworkers.”
- In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I can’t stand it when my partner gets catty during an argument.”
- A friend might warn, “Be careful what you share with her, she can be really catty.”
37. Vindictive
This term describes someone who is motivated by a desire for retaliation or to inflict harm on others. It implies a level of malicious intent.
- For instance, “Watch out for her, she’s known to be vindictive.”
- In a conversation about a past conflict, someone might say, “He took vindictive actions to get back at his ex.”
- A person might warn, “Don’t cross him, he can be very vindictive.”
38. Venomous
This term describes someone who is filled with anger and ill will towards others. It implies a level of toxicity and a desire to harm or hurt others.
- For example, “Her words were venomous and left a lasting impact.”
- In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “He was emotionally abusive and constantly spewed venomous words.”
- A friend might advise, “Stay away from her, she has a venomous personality.”
39. Acid-tongued
This term is used to describe someone who speaks in a way that is harsh, critical, and often hurtful. It implies a level of verbal aggression and a tendency to say cutting remarks.
- For instance, “He has an acid-tongued wit that can be both entertaining and hurtful.”
- In a conversation about a rude coworker, someone might say, “She has an acid-tongued way of responding to any criticism.”
- A person might caution, “Be prepared for her acid-tongued comments if you disagree with her.”
40. Maleficent
This term describes someone who has a wicked or evil nature and takes pleasure in causing harm or misery to others. It implies a level of intentional cruelty.
- For example, “His actions were maleficent and caused a lot of pain.”
- In a discussion about villains, someone might say, “Maleficent is known for her maleficent deeds in fairy tales.”
- A friend might warn, “Stay away from him, he has a maleficent personality.”
41. Devilish
This term is used to describe someone who is mischievous or behaves in a wicked or evil manner. It can also be used to describe something that is playfully evil.
- For example, “He has a devilish smile that always gets him out of trouble.”
- A person might say, “She played a devilish prank on her friend and made everyone laugh.”
- In a discussion about villains, someone might comment, “The Joker is known for his devilish schemes.”
42. Nastygram
This term refers to a strongly worded or unpleasant message, often sent electronically. It is typically used to describe a harshly critical or angry message.
- For instance, “He received a nastygram from his boss after missing a deadline.”
- A person might say, “I can’t believe she sent me such a nastygram just because I disagreed with her.”
- In a discussion about online communication, someone might mention, “Trolls often leave nastygrams in comment sections.”
43. Merciless
This term is used to describe someone who is without mercy or compassion. It implies that the person is relentless and shows no mercy in their actions.
- For example, “The dictator ruled with a merciless iron fist.”
- A person might say, “The competition was merciless, with no room for mistakes.”
- In a discussion about war, someone might comment, “The enemy showed no mercy and fought with a merciless determination.”
44. Ruthless
This term is used to describe someone who is without mercy or compassion. It implies that the person is relentless and shows no mercy in their actions.
- For instance, “The ruthless business tycoon would stop at nothing to achieve success.”
- A person might say, “The team faced a ruthless opponent who played aggressively.”
- In a discussion about crime, someone might comment, “The ruthless criminal left no witnesses and covered their tracks.”
45. Harsh-tongued
This term is used to describe someone who speaks in a harsh or sarcastic manner. It implies that the person’s words are cutting or hurtful.
- For example, “She is known for her harsh-tongued remarks that always leave people feeling hurt.”
- A person might say, “He can be quite harsh-tongued when he’s in a bad mood.”
- In a discussion about communication styles, someone might mention, “Some people use harsh-tongued language as a defense mechanism.”
46. Bitter
This term refers to someone who holds strong feelings of resentment or hostility. It is often used to describe someone who is angry or resentful about a past event or situation.
- For example, “She became bitter after losing the competition.”
- A person might say, “Don’t be so bitter about what happened. Move on.”
- In a discussion about relationships, someone might comment, “Their bitter divorce was messy and full of accusations.”
47. Sardonic
This term describes a type of humor or expression that is characterized by mocking or cynical remarks. It often involves using sarcasm or irony to mock someone or something.
- For instance, “She responded with a sardonic comment, dripping with sarcasm.”
- A person might say, “His sardonic sense of humor always catches people off guard.”
- In a discussion about a disappointing event, someone might comment, “His sardonic laughter filled the room, mocking our efforts.”
48. Scornful
This term describes a feeling or expression of contempt or disdain towards someone or something. It often involves looking down upon or belittling someone or something.
- For example, “She gave him a scornful look, full of disdain.”
- A person might say, “His scornful remarks towards others show his lack of empathy.”
- In a discussion about someone’s behavior, someone might comment, “His scornful attitude towards his colleagues is creating a toxic work environment.”
49. Cutting
This term refers to words or actions that are intentionally hurtful or cruel. It often involves making sharp or biting remarks that are meant to cause emotional pain.
- For instance, “Her cutting words left him feeling devastated.”
- A person might say, “His cutting remarks towards others reveal his own insecurities.”
- In a discussion about bullying, someone might comment, “The cutting remarks from her classmates made her dread going to school.”
50. Disparaging
This term describes words or actions that belittle or degrade someone or something. It often involves making negative or derogatory remarks that diminish the value or worth of someone or something.
- For example, “His disparaging comments about her appearance were uncalled for.”
- A person might say, “Using disparaging language towards others only shows your own ignorance.”
- In a discussion about stereotypes, someone might comment, “Disparaging remarks perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination.”
51. Sarcastic
This term refers to someone who uses irony, mockery, or cynical remarks to convey a negative or mean-spirited message. A sarcastic person often says the opposite of what they actually mean, intending to be humorous or cutting.
- For example, if someone asks, “Do you think I look good in this outfit?” a sarcastic response might be, “Oh yeah, you look absolutely stunning.”
- In a conversation about a bad movie, someone might say, “Wow, that film was a real masterpiece of cinema, huh?” in a sarcastic tone.
- A person might describe their friend as, “Always quick with a sarcastic remark, but it’s all in good fun.”
52. Malignant
This term describes someone or something that is extremely harmful, cruel, or malevolent. It implies a deep-seated and unyielding mean-spiritedness that can cause significant damage or pain to others.
- For instance, one might say, “Her words were like a malignant tumor, spreading negativity and hurt.”
- In a discussion about a toxic relationship, someone might comment, “He was emotionally abusive and had a truly malignant personality.”
- A person might describe a toxic workplace as, “A breeding ground for malignant behavior, where kindness and empathy are nonexistent.”
53. Wicked-hearted
This term describes someone who is deeply unkind, cruel, or lacking in compassion. It suggests a person who takes pleasure in causing pain or distress to others, often without remorse or empathy.
- For example, if someone intentionally hurts another person’s feelings, they might be described as “wicked-hearted.”
- In a conversation about a heartless action, someone might say, “He showed his true colors when he laughed at her misfortune. He’s truly wicked-hearted.”
- A person might describe a cruel dictator as, “A wicked-hearted ruler who had no regard for the suffering of his people.”