What “Mid” Means and How to Use It (With Examples)

Everything you need to know about this popular slang

Co-authored by Savannah Vold

Last Updated: March 6, 2023

What does “mid” mean?

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When and How to Use “Mid”

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Replying to “Mid”

That movie was mid. This burrito is mid. What in the world does mid mean? Middle…medium…? Are you close yet? If you’ve been hearing or seeing the slang term “mid” floating around on social media and don’t know what it means, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll teach you all about what “mid” means and how to use it so that you can get in on the action!

Things You Should Know

“Mid” is a slang term used to describe someone or something mediocre or underwhelming.
You can use “mid” to diss someone or something that’s “meh.” For example, you could say, “That band was super mid. I wouldn’t go to another of their concerts.”
Say “mid” to describe overhyped things, like movies, games, or food.

Section 1 of 3:

What does “mid” mean?

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“Mid” can mean mediocre and is often used as an insult on Tiktok. The slang term “mid” actually came from a viral clip of pro wrestler Jacob Friedman describing the crowd at a wrestling match as “mid” because they were in the Midwest. Ever since, “mid” has become an increasingly popular way to describe or even insult things or people that just aren’t that exciting.^{[1]
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- “I don’t know, I think that band is kind of mid. Just not my cup of tea.”
- “Ya, I know you love that team, but I think they’re mid. What can I say? I’m a 49ers fan 😉”
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“Mid” is often used to describe something underwhelming over text. Think of “mid” like a shrug or an eye roll. Whether something’s been overhyped, or you just didn’t like something or someone as much as you thought you would, “mid” is a fun term that perfectly sums up something “meh.”^{[2]
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- “I’m never listening to reviews again. That shake was totally mid 😐”
- “Everyone’s so hyped up about that new mascara, but I thought it was mid. Not impressed.”

Section 2 of 3:

When and How to Use “Mid”

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Use “mid” in place of “it was ok.” If something was kind of bleh—not great, but not bad either, why not take “mid” for a spin? “Mid” is a fun way to describe something of being, well... mediocre.^{[3]
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- “I had such high hopes for that restaurant, but it was totally mid.”
- “Everyone said I’d love that movie, but honestly, I thought it was pretty mid 🤔”
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Say “mid” to subtly express that you don’t like something or someone. If you don’t vibe with someone, or something just isn’t your scene, you can use “mid” to subtly dismiss the subject of your disapproval. Just remember to be respectful, and try not to hurt anyone’s feelings.^{[4]
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- “Don’t repeat this, but I think Jesse is kind of mid. He never makes an effort to acknowledge me when he comes over 😤”
- "I hate to say it, but the dinner Lena made last night was mid. She wanted me to have seconds, but I couldn't do it."
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Use “mid” to downgrade something that’s been overhyped. Nowadays, something new seems to skyrocket to shockingly popular heights every second. Whether it’s a new video game that just came out or a must-try fad food, some things just aren’t as spectacular as everyone says they are, and “mid” is the perfect term to describe that phenomenon.^{[5]
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- “Everyone and their brother said I had to try a cronut, and let me tell you—totally mid!”
- “Don’t even bother buying the new Nintendo game. I was so excited because it’s crazy popular, but it ended up being super mid 🎮 🤨”

Section 3 of 3:

Replying to “Mid”

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If someone called you “mid,” defend yourself, or let it go. If someone called you “mid,” they were probably making a lame attempt to diss you. Try not to take it personally and let it roll off your shoulders, or let them know that you think they’re being rude.
- “Whatever you say… 😒”
- “Somebody’s got an attitude today.”
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Send “mid” over text to describe something disappointing. If somebody described someone or something as “mid” over text, and you agree that it's pretty mediocre, say it back to affirm the sentiment.^{[6]
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- “You were so right. That pizza place was totally mid. I should have listened! 🤮”
- “Ugh, I totally agree. Most mid party I’ve ever been to 🙃”
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Use an alternate phrase like “it was alright” instead. If “mid” is out of your comfort zone, or you think it’s kind of silly, don’t feel pressured to add it to your vocabulary. You can always use synonyms like “ok” or “mediocre” to convey the same message.^{[7]
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- “Ya, I agree. It was alright, nothing to write home about.”
- “Honestly, it was just ok. I wasn’t as impressed as I thought I would be 🥱”