Beta is a Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang word meaning “A submissive or passive person (vs alpha)”. Here’s the full Beta meaning explained, with examples, origin, and how to say it in 10+ languages.
What is Beta? Beta Meaning Explained
A submissive or passive person (vs alpha)

Beta is the term used to describe someone seen as weak, passive, or not asserting themselves — especially in contrast to the so-called “alpha.” Originally part of the online manosphere, it’s now used by Gen Z more ironically to poke fun at cringe or insecure behavior. Calling someone “beta” usually means they’re backing down, people-pleasing, or just letting others dominate. Sometimes it’s harsh. Sometimes it’s a meme.
Beta became popular in early manosphere and 4chan circles, used to describe men seen as “less dominant.” But Gen Z twisted the term into roast slang — a meme to poke fun at try-hard submissiveness or simping. Now it’s often used ironically or for drama.
Beta — Slang Examples in Sentences
“Bro went full beta in front of the squad.”
Sentence | Translation / Context |
---|
“He’s acting so beta around her.” | Calling out someone for being overly submissive or deferential. |
“Beta energy detected 🫣.” | Used as a sarcastic insult for insecure or awkward behavior. |
“Bro went full beta in front of the squad.” | Describing someone who avoids confrontation or fades into the background. |
“Not the beta collapse over one text 😭.” | Often said in contrast to alpha energy. |
“Beta behavior = apologizing too fast.” | Used as ironic slang or roast in online and gaming culture. |
Common formats: • “He’s giving beta rn.” • “Beta collapse caught on cam.” • “Bro beta’d his way out of the convo.” • “Stop with the beta apology tour 💀.” • “Beta move: texting first after ghosting.”
Where Did “Beta” Come From? Beta Origin
Beta began wide-spread usage in the early 2010s

The term gained traction in the early 2010s via 4chan, YouTube red pill content, and bro-podcasts. Originally serious, it’s now more commonly used as meme-speak or light roast culture. Gen Z and Alpha use it mostly for drama or jokes — not genuine critique.
Beta in Every Language
Learn how to say (or at least explain) Beta in 9+ languages! Jump to a section from the table above to read about Beta in every language.
Beta意味|Betaとは? 🇯🇵
Betaの意味は?受け身な人を皮肉るネットスラング
Beta(ベータ)は、自信がなく、他人に従うような人をからかうための言葉。
Beta의미|Beta이란? 🇰🇷
Beta 뜻: 주도적이지 않고 순한 성향을 놀릴 때 쓰는 표현
Beta(베타)는 자신감 없고 순종적인 태도를 보이는 사람을 놀릴 때 쓰는 단어예요.
Beta意思|Beta是什么? 🇨🇳
Beta 是什么意思?讽刺行为软弱或“舔狗”行为的词
Beta(贝塔)指性格软弱、没主见的人,通常用于嘲讽。
Beta Bedeutung|Was Bedeutet Beta? 🇩🇪
Was bedeutet Beta? Ausdruck für fehlende Durchsetzungskraft
Beta ist ein Slangwort für unterwürfiges Verhalten – oft als Witz oder Beleidigung genutzt.
Beta Significado|¿Qué Significa Beta? 🇪🇸
¿Qué significa Beta? Palabra para llamar a alguien “débil” o “no dominante”
Beta es un término que describe a alguien sumiso o inseguro, usado en tono burlón.
Beta Significato|Che Cosa Vuol Dire Beta? 🇮🇹
Cosa significa Beta? Termine per prendere in giro chi “cede” troppo facilmente
Beta è uno slang usato per descrivere chi si comporta in modo passivo o troppo remissivo.
Beta Signification|C’est Quoi Beta? 🇫🇷
Quelle est la signification de Beta ? Slang ironique pour “manque de caractère”
Beta est un mot utilisé pour désigner une personne perçue comme soumise ou faible.
Beta значение|Что такое Beta? 🇷🇺
Что значит Beta? Молодёжный термин для насмешек или иронии
Beta — это способ в шутку назвать кого-то слабым, покорным или неуверенным.
Beta ما معنى|المعنى Beta؟ 🇸🇦
ما معنى Beta؟ كلمة شبابية للسخرية من ضعف الشخصية
Beta هو مصطلح يُستخدم للسخرية من شخص ضعيف أو غير واثق في تصرفاته.
Beta Overview

Beta is Gen Z’s favorite way to clown someone for folding too fast or acting like a people-pleaser. It’s not always deep — sometimes it’s just a meme. If someone’s not standing up for themselves, you might hear: “Beta.”
That’s the full slang guide for Beta, straight from the Skibidi DB!
Sasha | Gen Z Reporter

Hi, I’m Sasha, a Gen Z reporter and content goblin here at Skibidi Times.
I’m 19 with Italian roots (yes, I’m fluent in both Italian and Italian Brainrot 🇮🇹💅) and I love covering everything from TikTok trends to Gen Alpha drama.
When I’m not online scrolling way too deep, you’ll catch me with Froyo in one hand and a fresh nail set on the other — I’m a certified nail art addict and self-taught specialist in all things cute ✨💅🍦.