ENGLISH
REFERENCE

badass

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈbæˌdæs// badass Slang

adj. describes someone or something that is very cool, tough, or impressive. You use it for people who are brave and don't care what others think.

adj. characterised by an impressive, formidable, or uncompromising nature. Slang in register; typically used to express admiration for toughness or rebellious competence.


SIMPLE

That guitar solo was totally badass.

CONTEXTUAL

She looks like a badass in that leather jacket and combat boots.

COMPLEX

The protagonist's badass attitude and refusal to back down from the corrupt authorities made her an instant icon for the underground resistance movement.

Origin

From bad + ass (“buttocks; one's self or person”).

Usage

Often follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'look'; can also modify a noun directly.

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