What it means
To flex is to show off what you’ve got, or make a point that you’re doing better than everyone else. Can be a noun or a verb, from literally flexing your muscles to flexing money, clothes, links, or status. Sometimes it’s playful, sometimes it’s pure ego, and people will call you out if it’s too much. Also used ironically online: weird flex but ok.
Usage examples
"He rolled up to the bodega in that fresh fit, deadass holding the keys like a trophy, just to flex on everybody in line."
"He keeps posting photos of his new watch, proper flex, we get it mate, you got a bonus."
"Showing up to the reunion in a suit when it said casual was a weird flex, but you do you."
"Man brought his designer bag to a house party just to flex, and nobody even had space to put their drinks down."
"You posted your payslip on your story? Weird flex, but alright."
Where it comes from
It comes from the literal flex of a muscle, showing physical strength. By the late 1900s, especially in Black American speech and hip hop, flex widened into showing off money, clothes, cars, status, or power. Online culture pushed it even further with weird flex but ok, turning the word into a side-eye meme too.
Other ways to say it
Editors of this term
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