ENGLISH
REFERENCE

badass

adj. · n.
US //ˈbæˌdæs// badass
  1. 1 impressive and tough (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Slang American English

    very cool, strong, or impressive because of skill or courage.

    characterised by an impressive degree of toughness, skill, or audacity that commands respect.

    Example

    That guitar solo was totally badass and the crowd loved it.

    Example

    The protagonist's badass attitude and refusal to back down made her an instant icon for fans of the action genre.

    Usage

    Commonly used as a high compliment in informal settings to describe skill or style.
  2. 2 mean or aggressive (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Slang American English

    behaving in a mean, aggressive, or troublesome way.

    exhibiting a belligerent, aggressive, or antisocial disposition.

    Example

    He has a badass reputation for starting fights in the neighborhood.

    Example

    The local gang was led by a badass character who used intimidation to maintain control over the streets.

    Teacher's tip

    While often a compliment today, this older sense is negative and describes someone genuinely unpleasant or dangerous.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 a tough person (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Slang American English

    a person who is very tough, brave, or skilled.

    an individual who is perceived as exceptionally tough, daring, or formidable.

    Example

    My grandmother was a real badass who worked three jobs to support her family.

    Example

    In the world of professional stunt driving, he is considered the ultimate badass for completing jumps that others refuse to attempt.
Origin

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

© 2026 English Reference