Buzz
Everything you need to know about the 'so babygirl' TikTok phenomenon
He’s soooo babygirl! Confused? You’re not alone. 'Babygirl' has taken over TikTok, and it describes a guy who’s not only adorable and emotionally open, but also tough, responsible, and maybe even fatherly…yet still has that innocent, childlike vibe. Not sure how that adds up? We’ll break it down for you. We’ll also dive into the origins of the term 'babygirl' and how you can start using it in everyday conversation.
What 'Babygirl' Really Means
'Babygirl' is a term of endearment used to describe men—usually actors or fictional characters over 25—who are sweet, reliable, yet sometimes a bit naïve. It’s a way to call someone cute and emotionally available, but with a subtle toughness. The term gained popularity between 2017 and 2020 and has exploded across social media platforms like TikTok.
How to Use 'Babygirl'
'Babygirl' Defined
'Babygirl' refers to a guy who is cute, sensitive, and a bit naïve. The definition may be a bit slippery, but generally, if your guy is around 25 or older, confident in his masculinity yet emotionally available, a little broody (maybe?), and has that 'daddy' vibe while still retaining an innocent touch, you’ve got yourself a babygirl.
- The term 'babygirl' can describe a wide variety of men: from sensitive sweater-wearing types like Paul Mescal to boundary-pushing figures like Harry Styles, from charming yet innocent daddies like Pedro Pascal to gruff anti-heroes like Walter White from Breaking Bad, and even narcissistic, confused nepo babies like Kendall Roy from Succession.
- Though 'babygirl' is typically applied to celebrities and fictional characters, it can also describe real-life men—or a babygirl, since it can be both an adjective and a noun.
- Even though 'babygirl' can sometimes be used ironically, it’s primarily a term of affection, not intended to be dismissive or insulting.
'Babygirl' can also describe an attractive woman. Often used flirtatiously, 'babygirl' (or 'baby girl') is a common nickname for women, much like 'honey,' 'babe,' or 'sweetie.' However, some women may find it infantilizing or patronizing to be called 'babygirl.'
- Interestingly, the newer use of 'babygirl' has become a way to challenge traditional gender roles, portraying grown men—especially those who are very traditionally masculine—as sweet, innocent, and in need of protection.
How to Use 'Babygirl'
Share your adoration for a male character or celebrity on social media. On platforms like TikTok, 'babygirl' is frequently used to describe men who are both tough and emotionally vulnerable, men who exhibit a mix of strength and sweetness that makes you want to care for them.
- For example, TikTok user @pascalistic tagged this TikTok video of Pedro Pascal with the caption, “he's babygirl your honor.”
- You can use 'babygirl' to describe a man generally or highlight moments when he’s especially embodying that 'babygirl' energy. For instance, “Kyle Maclachlan’s giving such babygirl in these instagram photos.”
- The term can also be used somewhat sarcastically, as in a TikTok where Godzilla is called 'babygirl,' but even then, it’s still meant with affection.
'Babygirl' Origins
'Babygirl' as a term for men emerged between 2017 and 2020. This slang gained popularity after Wattpad user aradmille posted a photoshopped panel from the manga Mob Psycho 100, where Shigeo asks Arataka, 'Why does Serizawa call you babygirl?' to which Arataka responds, 'How about we stop talking for a little while?'
- The term took off on Twitter and Tumblr in August 2021, when fans began redrawing the panel with different characters from various fandoms.
- Most of these edits involved one male character asking another male character (like Mario and Luigi) why they're being called 'babygirl.'
- As the trend spread, people began using the term more broadly to describe men, often showcasing their favorite 'babygirl' moments on TikTok.
- Though originally and still mostly used for celebrities and fictional characters, any man exhibiting 'babygirl' traits can be dubbed as such.
Related Terms
Zaddy A 'zaddy' is a suave, attractive older guy—stylish and confident, with just the right amount of 'daddy' energy. Picture Jeff Goldblum as the ultimate zaddy.
Sigma A 'sigma male' is essentially a lone wolf. These guys are as successful and influential as alphas but are far more independent, mysterious, and elusive.
Softboi 'Softboi,' much like 'babygirl,' covers a wide range of meanings, but in essence, it refers to a guy who’s very in tune with his feminine side, though he might come off as a bit elitist.
- 'Softboi' has also been described as a subtype of f*ckboi: in this sense, it refers to seemingly sensitive men who emotionally manipulate women. (Think of Timothée Chalamet's character in Lady Bird.)
Submissive and breedable 'Submissive and breedable' made way for 'babygirl.' Before 'babygirl' took off, Twitter user @T4RIG posted, 'normalize 👏 platonically 👏 telling 👏 your 👏 bros 👏 they 👏 look 👏 submissive 👏and 👏 breedable 👏' in June 2021. The post went viral, gaining over 92,000 likes and 12,200 retweets in just 5 days.
- While 'submissive and breedable' is a phrase traditionally used to describe women, its virality in this context paved the way for the celebration of sweet, soft-spoken men as 'babygirls.'
