What does 'mid' mean on TikTok? How to rise above degrading fads on social media

You've likely been hearing about it, but what does mid mean on TikTok? The term is certainly a dig, but we'll help you rise above social media hate

woman on phone, pink and yellow background
(Image credit: Getty Images/ Tim Robberts)

If you've lately wondered, "What does 'mid' mean on TikTok," we're willing to bet you were fed up once you learned the answer. 

The video-sharing platform is a wealth of information—TikTok beauty hacks, TikTok recipes and ridiculous challenges are just the tip of the iceberg. It comes as no surprise that the app has manifested its own lingo...and we're not shocked that most of the terms are fairly blunt and unnecessary—"mid" included. 

If you're curious about what's going on with this crazy behavior on your FYP, read on. 



What does 'mid' mean on TikTok?

This slang is just a popular way of saying that something is subpar. According to Urban Dictionary, the word is "used to insult or degrade an opposing opinion, labeling it as average or poor quality."

Given that many take to TikTok to show off a skill, hack or something they're proud of, hearing that a video is "mid" is obviously an unwelcome sentiment. What's even worse about this insulting new expression is that users are targeting one another's looks when throwing the term around in the comments section.

This childish behavior comes as no surprise, so it's best to simply brush it off. TikTok trolls are just waiting to pounce on that new hair trick you've been attempting. You simply cannot let the naysayers win.

The origins of 'mid': where did it come from?

@arias.iii

♬ Use this sound if u gay - Garbage

One TikTok user got the term to circulate upon his declaration of the entire Midwest being—you guessed it—"mid." You'll catch this sound on various other videos discussing "mid" experiences, whatever they might be. 

How to stay positive on social media

Negative comments run rampant on social feeds. Some people seem to believe that hiding behind the screen enables them to say whatever nasty thought comes to mind without suffering consequences.

In order to not let this behavior cause you to feel inferior, both Jacqueline Nesi, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University and Dr. Chris Barry, a professor in the Department of Psychology at Washington State University, suggest reevaluating the way in which you use social media. 

A few tips to consider from the behavioral experts are as follows: 

  • Be mindful of what and who you interact with
  • Note what on social media makes you happy and what does not; adjust accordingly
  • Take a break from social media if necessary 
  • Don't let any platform interfere with your daily activities

Use TikTok mental health resources 

It's easy to get caught up in a new trend or fad on your FYP, but don't forget that TikTok's new mental health resources are available, should you need them. 

"We care deeply about our community, and we always look for new ways in which we can nurture their well-being," Tara Wadhwa, the company's director of policy, in a statement. "That's why we're taking additional steps to make it easier for people to find resources when they need them on TikTok."

You can peruse the app's wellbeing guidelines via its Safety Center. Topics range from suicide and eating disorders to COVID-19 and anti-bullying. 

Danielle Valente
Digital News Writer

Need a TV show recommendation? Maybe a few decor tips? Danielle, a digital news writer at Future, has you covered. Her work appears throughout the company’s lifestyle brands, including My Imperfect Life, Real Homes, and woman&home. Mainly, her time is spent at My Imperfect Life, where she’s attuned to the latest entertainment trends and dating advice for Gen Z.

Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids, where she got to experience the best of the city from the point of view of its littlest residents. Before that, she was a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, and amNewYork, to name a few. 

When Danielle’s not writing, you can find her testing out a new recipe, reading a book (suggestions always welcome), or rearranging the furniture in her apartment…again.