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Discover the origins of "ate down" and how to use it effectively
On TikTok, when someone says you "ate down," it’s a way of saying that you absolutely nailed something, and it turned out great. While this is most commonly used to compliment outfits, it can be used in any context where someone has executed something perfectly. Not sure when to use this phrase or how to respond when it’s said to you? This guide breaks it down, along with its history and some similar terms.
What’s the meaning behind the slang “ate down”?
"Ate down" is a slang expression that means you performed exceptionally well at something. It’s a major compliment, often used to praise someone’s outfit or actions. It can also be applied to a person’s walking style, dancing, hair, or how they handle situations. It’s all about recognizing excellence in various forms.
Steps
What does the phrase “ate down” mean?
Ate down is a compliment, meaning you did something flawlessly. When you put in effort and achieve something great, you ‘ate down.’ While the term is mostly used for fashion, it can also apply to any skill or accomplishment. For instance, if you’re strutting down the street with confidence, a friend might say, “Dang girl! You ate down today!!” after noticing your killer outfit, hairstyle, and attitude.
How to use the term “ate down” in a sentence
To show admiration for someone’s work, say they “ate down.” For example, if your friend is rocking a stylish outfit, you could say, “Okay, I see you! You ate down.” It’s about acknowledging someone’s effort when they do something impressively well. Only use it when you genuinely appreciate what someone has done.
- When someone’s walking down the street with an amazing outfit, fresh haircut, and a designer bag, that’s the perfect moment to say they “ate down.”
- Example: “That outfit is everything! Those boots, the dress, and that purse—girl, you ate down!”
- Example: “I can’t believe he tried to argue! After you shut him down, he had nothing to say. You ate down!”
- Example: “I ate down on that quiz.”
Where did the phrase “ate down” originate from?
The term “ate down” originates from African American Vernacular English. It’s an extension of the word “ate,” which gained popularity in Black LGBTQ circles during the 2000s. While the exact origin of “ate down” isn’t well-documented, it has been widely used in Black Twitter (now X) for many years.
- The term has since spread across social media platforms, being used by a diverse range of people.
How to respond when someone says you “ate down”
When someone compliments you by saying you “ate down,” just say thanks! Since “ate down” is a major compliment, it’s polite to thank the person who gave it to you. To keep the energy high, you can also return the favor by complimenting them on something they did well.
- For example, if you spot their new shoes, you can reply, “Thanks! I see those shoes, you ate with those!”
- If you're texting and they say you ate, reply with “THANK U BB” to show your appreciation.
“Ate Down” vs. “Ate Up”
“Ate up” refers to someone doing one or two things well. In contrast, “ate down” is used when everything about a person’s appearance or actions is on point. When all aspects of someone’s look or performance are flawless, use “ate down.” For example, on June 23, 2024, @yagirlhanz posted a video explaining that “When someone says ‘you ate down,’ they’re talking about your entire look. Like, your entire being just ate.”
- If someone is rocking a head-to-toe perfect outfit with amazing jewelry, say, “Ooo, you ate down!” But if their outfit is just okay, but their jewelry is on point, say “I love your jewelry! You ate that up.”
- Example: “Okay, I see you just got your hair done. It looks fire! Your stylist ate that up!”
- Example: “I love your new hairdo! Your outfit is stunning too! And those nails? On point! Girl, you ate down with this look!”
- Example: “She ate that up!”
Other Popular Slang Terms
Ate This is a more casual version of saying someone “ate down.” ”Ate” may not carry as much weight as “ate down,” but it still shows admiration for something well done.
- If you absolutely nailed a presentation, your friend might say “you ate with that presentation!”
Understood the assignment This phrase is used to describe someone who aced something and executed it flawlessly, knowing exactly what they were doing.
- If you're trying out a bold new look, like sharp winged eyeliner, and it looks great, your friends might say “Okay!! You understood the assignment.”
Slay Slay is a Gen Z term for doing something with style or perfection. It’s often used to praise someone for doing something excellently, like creating a delicious dish or mastering their makeup.
- If your makeup is on point, a friend may say “Slay! Your beat is giving!”
Ate and left no crumbs When someone says you ate and left no crumbs, they're giving you the highest form of praise, admiring how flawless your look or action was. This is the ultimate “ate” compliment, implying you nailed every aspect of it.
