badasses
|bad-ass-es|
/ˈbædæsɪz/
(badass)
extreme toughness/coolness
Etymology
'badass' originates from American English, specifically the compound of the words 'bad' and 'ass', where 'bad' meant 'bad' and 'ass' functioned as an emphatic, colloquial element.
'badass' changed from the hyphenated form 'bad-ass' found in mid-20th century U.S. slang and eventually became the solid word 'badass' in modern usage.
Initially it could carry a derogatory sense (a morally bad or violent person), but over time it evolved into a more positive or admiring sense meaning a tough, impressive, or admirable person.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'badass'. Informal: people who are tough, formidable, impressive, or cool; often used as praise for bravery, skill, or boldness.
Those firefighters are real badasses — they saved everyone from the burning building.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/29 20:06