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Understanding the meaning and appearance of the 'mean mugging' expression
You’ve probably heard someone say that a person was 'mean mugging' them, or perhaps you’ve been accused of 'mean mugging' someone yourself. But what does this term actually mean? 'Mean mugging' refers to a scowling, angry look you give someone to intimidate or express displeasure. To learn more about this phrase, continue reading. In this article, we’ll define 'mean mugging,' explore its usage, uncover its origins, and introduce you to other related expressions.
Definition of Mean Mugging
'Mean mugging' is a slang term used to describe when someone looks at you with an angry or cold stare. It essentially means they are glaring or frowning at you to show they are irritated or upset.
How to Recognize Mean Mugging
What Does 'Mean Mugging' Mean?
'Mean mugging' refers to staring at someone with an angry or irritated expression. This term is used as a verb to describe a scowl or stern look directed at another person. It often involves furrowing your brows and frowning, which gives the impression of anger or hostility. You might 'mean mug' someone to appear threatening, express frustration, or convey disapproval.
- Not everyone who 'mean mugs' is being intentionally rude. Some people naturally have a resting frown, while others may make this face when they are concentrating or simply tired.
- Pronunciation: The term 'mean mugging' is pronounced as 'meen-mugh-ing' or 'meen-mugh-in.'
How to Use 'Mean Mugging' in Sentences
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'Mean mugging' can be used both seriously and lightheartedly. The phrase is often used to describe a look that makes you feel uncomfortable, upset, or even offended. But it can also be used humorously to highlight a funny or exaggerated scowl, like that of a baby or a pet.
- “This girl at the coffee shop was mean mugging me. She shot me the rudest look because she thought I took her order. Luckily, the barista called her name just after I got my coffee!”
- “I wouldn't want to get on Nick’s bad side! He was mean mugging everyone who kept talking in class. By the look on his face, I thought he might go over there and make them stop!”
- “I was mean mugging everyone on the road today. Drivers kept cutting me off and tailgating. I hope I don’t end up looking like this all day!”
- “I love when babies look like they’re mean mugging. What could possibly annoy them? Their faces are too cute to take seriously.”
- “Your cat was totally mean mugging me! He had the angriest face. I bet he’s upset because I didn’t give him every treat from the bag.”
Where Did 'Mean Mugging' Come From?
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'Mean mugging' combines the words 'mean' and 'mug.' The word 'mean' is an adjective used to describe someone who is unkind, rude, or ill-tempered. 'Mug' is an old slang term from the 1700s, meaning 'face.' It carries a negative connotation, often referring to a face that is unattractive or unpleasant.
- In the 1700s, it was trendy to draw or sculpt unappealing faces on mugs (drinking cups). As a result, many believe that the term 'mug' became slang for 'face' due to this fad!
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'Mean mugging' has its roots in the Black community. This phrase comes from AAVE (African American Vernacular English) slang. It gained widespread popularity thanks to hip-hop and rap artists in the 1990s and 2000s. Iconic figures like 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Nas often referenced 'mean mugging' in their music.
Related Expressions
Giving someone a hostile look When you give someone a hostile look, you're staring at them with a visibly angry or annoyed expression. It usually indicates that you're upset with them or their actions and want to make that clear.
- “Oh, Josie knows I'm mad. I gave her a dirty look after she made that nasty comment about Sloane. And she just texted me to apologize!”
Giving someone the side eye Side eye refers to a glance made from the corner of your eye, typically to express disapproval, judgment, or suspicion about someone's actions.
- “I gave Bryce’s girlfriend the side eye when she said she doesn't like dogs. Did she forget that Bryce works at an animal shelter and owns two dogs himself, or is she just indifferent?”
Giving someone the evil eye In many cultures, people believe in the evil eye, which is a malicious or hateful look that is believed to cause bad luck. It can also refer to any angry or irritated expression meant to show disapproval or frustration.
- “The librarian gave me the evil eye for talking. I’ve never seen her look so terrifying! I think I might start wearing an evil eye bracelet for protection.”
Resting b*tch face Resting b*tch face, often abbreviated as RBF, describes a person’s natural facial expression that can appear angry, irritated, or dissatisfied even when they’re not feeling that way. Those with RBF tend to feel misjudged, as their neutral look may seem upset or annoyed, despite their actual emotions.
- “People always ask me if I’m mad at them, and when I ask why, they say it’s because I look angry. Do I have resting b*tch face?”
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Images of people mean mugging are widely used as memes and reaction GIFs across the internet and in text messages. A common example is basketball player Giannis Antetokounmpo’s expression when he's upset with a referee’s call, which frequently appears as a meme.
