What Does Twerk Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang (2024)

What Does Twerk Mean?

The term twerk refers to a dance move that involves energetically shaking one’s buttocks from side to side or up and down. It is most commonly performed by females and is intended to draw attention to the dancer’s rear end. Twerking can also be used as a verb, as in “She was twerking on the dance floor.”

Twerking gained widespread popularity after Miley Cyrus famously performed the dance move during the 2013 MTV VMAs. Since then, many females have imitated the dance move in bars, clubs, and on social media. It has become a cultural phenomenon and is often associated with a lively and energetic atmosphere. While twerking is primarily a dance move, it can also be used in a more playful or sarcastic manner. For example, someone might say “I twerked my way through that challenging workout” to express that they exerted a lot of effort or energy. It’s important to note that twerking itself does not have a sexual connotation. It is a dance move that is intended to be entertaining and attention-grabbing. However, like any dance move, it can be performed in a sexualized manner depending on the context and the intentions of the dancer. Here are some examples of how to use the word twerk in conversation:

  1. “Did you see that girl shaking her goods last night? She could teach Miley how to twerk.”
  2. “I’m going to twerk it out on the dance floor tonight and show off my moves.”
  3. “My friend attempted to twerk at the party, but she ended up falling on her buttocks instead.”
  4. “I can’t believe my grandma knows how to twerk. She has some serious dance skills!”
  5. “I challenged my boyfriend to a twerking contest, and let’s just say he needs some practice.”

In summary, twerk is a dance move that involves vigorously shaking one’s buttocks. It gained popularity after Miley Cyrus performed it at the 2013 MTV VMAs and has since become a cultural phenomenon. While it can be performed in a sexualized manner, its primary purpose is to entertain and attract attention.

What Does Twerk Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang (1)
What Does Twerk Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang (2)
What Does Twerk Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang (3)

What Does Twerk Mean From a Girl?

When a girl uses the term twerk, she is most likely referring to the dance move that involves shaking her buttocks energetically. Twerking is a popular dance move among females and is often performed to draw attention to the dancer’s rear end. It is intended to be entertaining and lively, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere.

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Girls may use twerk in various ways, including:

  • As a form of self-expression: Girls may use twerk as a way to express themselves through dance and showcase their confidence and skills.
  • To have fun: Twerking is often associated with having a good time and letting loose on the dance floor. Girls may use it to show that they are enjoying themselves and embracing the moment.
  • To show off their moves: Twerking requires skill and coordination, and girls may use it to demonstrate their dancing abilities and impress others.
  • To join in on the trend: Twerking has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to celebrities like Miley Cyrus. Girls may use it to participate in the trend and feel connected to popular culture.

It’s important to note that girls may use twerk similarly or differently compared to everyone else. Some girls may embrace twerking as a form of empowerment and self-expression, while others may see it as simply a fun dance move. Each individual may have their own perspective on how they use twerk.

If someone uses twerk in conversation with you, it’s best to respond in a way that aligns with the context and your comfort level. You can acknowledge their dance skills, compliment their confidence, or simply enjoy the moment together. Just remember to keep the conversation light-hearted and respectful.

So, next time you see a girl twerking, appreciate her dance moves and join in on the fun if you’re up for it!

Example 1:

  • Girl A: Hey, did you see that video of Sarah twerking? She’s got some serious moves!
  • Girl B: Yeah, she totally twerked it! I wish I could dance like that.

Example 2:

  • Girl A: Let’s hit the dance floor and show off our twerking skills!
  • Girl B: Yes, let’s twerk it out and have a blast!

Example 3:

  • Girl A: Did you see the twerking challenge on TikTok? I’m gonna give it a try.
  • Girl B: Go for it! Show them how you can twerk like a pro.

Example 4:

  • Guy: Wow, you really know how to twerk! That was impressive.
  • Girl: Thanks! I’ve been practicing my twerking skills for a while now.

Example 5:

  • Guy: I saw your twerking video on Instagram. You’ve got some serious talent!
  • Girl: Haha, thanks! Just having fun and embracing my inner dancer. Gotta twerk it out!
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What Does Twerk Mean From a Guy?

When a guy uses the term twerk, it can have a similar meaning as when a girl uses it. However, there may be some differences in how guys use and interpret the slang. Here are some possible meanings and ways guys might use “twerk”:

  • To appreciate a girl’s dance moves: Like girls, guys may use “twerk” to acknowledge and praise a girl’s dancing skills. They might use it to compliment her on her ability to twerk or to show that they find her dance moves impressive.
  • To express attraction: Guys may use “twerk” as a way to express their attraction to a girl. They might use it to flirt or playfully indicate that they find her physically attractive.
  • To join in on the fun: Twerking is often associated with having a good time and letting loose on the dance floor. Guys may use it to show that they are enjoying themselves and embracing the energetic atmosphere.
  • To participate in the trend: Just like girls, guys may use “twerk” to join in on the cultural phenomenon and feel connected to popular culture. They might use it as a way to show that they are up-to-date with current trends.

It’s important to note that not all guys will use “twerk” in the same way. Some may use it more casually or playfully, while others may use it more seriously or flirtatiously. Each guy may have his own interpretation and intention behind using the slang.

If a guy uses “twerk” in conversation with you, how you reply will depend on your comfort level and the context of the conversation. You can play along, respond with humor, or simply acknowledge his comment. Just remember to keep the conversation light-hearted and respectful.

So, next time a guy uses “twerk,” embrace the playful nature of the slang and enjoy the moment together!

Example 1:

  • Guy 1: Dude, did you see that guy twerking at the party last night?
  • Guy 2: Yeah, he was killing it! His twerking skills were on point.

Example 2:

  • Guy 1: I’m thinking of taking a dance class. Maybe I’ll learn how to twerk.
  • Guy 2: Haha, that would be hilarious! You’ll definitely stand out on the dance floor.

Example 3:

  • Guy 1: Check out this video of me attempting to twerk. It’s so bad.
  • Guy 2: Oh man, that’s hilarious! You definitely need some practice.

Example 4:

  • Guy 1: My girlfriend challenged me to a twerking contest. I don’t know if I can do it.
  • Guy 2: Don’t worry, man. Just have fun with it and give it your best shot. You might surprise yourself!

Example 5:

  • Guy: I saw your TikTok video of you twerking. It was epic!
  • Girl: Haha, thanks! I was just goofing around, but I’m glad you enjoyed it.
  • Guy: Seriously, you’ve got some serious twerking skills. Keep it up!

What Does Twerk Mean Sexually?

Yes, twerk does have a sexual or NSFW meaning. It refers to a dance move that involves energetically shaking one’s buttocks, often in a sexualized manner.

Origin of Twerk

The origin of the word “twerk” is not entirely clear. According to Slang.net, twerking has existed since the 90s and was made by Jamaicans during voodoo ceremonies. However, the website also mentions that Miley Cyrus popularized twerking again in 2013, leading to its widespread adoption. It is important to note that Miley Cyrus did not invent twerking, but rather helped bring it into the mainstream. So, while the exact origin of the word is unclear, it seems that twerking as a dance move has been around for several decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Slangs similar to Twerk

Twerking, booty shaking, shaking it, bump and grind, and booty popping are similar to twerk because they all involve vigorously moving or shaking one’s buttocks. These terms are used to describe dance moves or actions that draw attention to the rear end and are often associated with a lively and energetic atmosphere.

Is Twerk A Bad Word?

No, “twerk” is not a bad word or vulgar word. It is a dance move that involves shaking one’s booty side-to-side or up and down. While it can be seen as provocative or attention-seeking, it is not inherently vulgar or offensive. It gained popularity after Miley Cyrus performed it during the 2013 MTV VMAs. It is primarily performed by females and is meant to attract attention to the dancer’s rear end.

Is Twerk a Typo or Misspelling?

No, “twerk” is not a misspelling or typo. It is a word that refers to a dance move involving shaking one’s buttocks and has gained widespread popularity in recent years.

What Does Twerk Mean? - Meaning, Uses and More - FluentSlang (2024)

FAQs

What does twerk mean? ›

: sexually suggestive dancing characterized by rapid, repeated hip thrusts and shaking of the buttocks especially while squatting.

What does the word twerk stand for? ›

The origin of the word “twerk” as a dance movement has a few theories: It comes from a combination of the words “twitch” and “jerk” It is a variation of the word “work” or “to work”

What did twerk used to mean? ›

of an odd or negative type; a twist' by 1940; and, by the late 1990s, to the notorious dance. Twerk was being used as a verb by 1848, meaning 'to move (something) with a twitching, twisting, or jerking motion'.

What is the other meaning of twerking? ›

Provocative dance move involving rhythmic gyrations of the buttocks. butt shaking. rump shaking. booty shaking. booty popping.

What is the definition of a twerking person? ›

Tweaker (band) Tweaking (behavior), see Stereotypy, slang term for someone exhibiting compulsive or repetitive behaviour.

What is the street meaning of twerking? ›

Originally U.S. To dance to popular music in a sexually provocative manner, using thrusting movements of the bottom and hips while in a low, squatting stance. Also transitive: to move (part of the body) in this way.

How do you twerk for someone? ›

Pop your booty.

Bend and straighten your legs along with the rhythm of the music. You can also shake and move your booty as you twerk. To do the regular twerk, just arch your back and then hallow it out, letting your booty move up and down, up and down. For the Miley, quickly wiggle your hips from left to right.

What is twerking originally called? ›

Twerking has been around in its present form since the early 1990s but is the modern version of an ancient dance called Mapouka that originated in Côte d'Ivoire (i.e. Ivory Coast) in West Africa.

Why do people like to twerk? ›

It's literally a mating ritual … twerking is an approximate mimicry of the movements involved in mounted intercourse, with a heavy emphasis on the direct, overt presentation of the buttocks and breasts - typically involving tight fitting or barely concealable clothing.

Who made up twerking? ›

The word is said to have originated from the inner-city of New Orleans and was used frequently in New Orleans bounce music by rappers and DJ hosting block parties in the housing projects.

How old is the word "twerk"? ›

Researchers found the word, one of 500 new dictionary entries, was first used in 1820, spelt twirk, to refer to a twisting or jerking movement or twitch. The verb is believed to have emerged later in 1848 and the twerk spelling was used by 1901, the dictionary says.

What is the urban definition of twerking? ›

The Urban Dictionary defines twerking as the act of moving / shaking ones buns in an up-and-down and side-to-side motion.

How many types of twerk are there? ›

Explore different styles of twerking such as double twerks, slow-motion twerking, or even acrobatic twerking. These elements will add diversity and creativity to your dance routine. Remember, practice is key to mastering advanced twerking techniques.

What does twerking mean dictionary? ›

to dance by thrusting or shaking the buttocks and hips while in a squatting or bent-over position, often to music originating in African American and Caribbean culture.

Who invented twerking? ›

Twerking has been around in its present form since the early 1990s but is the modern version of an ancient dance called Mapouka that originated in Côte d'Ivoire (i.e. Ivory Coast) in West Africa.

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