Warning: this article contains language that some readers may find offensive.
Have you ever come across the phrase “serving cunt” online and felt a mix of confusion and offense? While it prominently features the c-word, known for being one of the most offensive terms in the English language, in this context, it’s far from being an insult. In fact, within specific communities, particularly queer circles, “serving cunt” is high praise.
This seemingly contradictory phrase actually describes someone who embodies confidence, sass, and an undeniable fierceness. It’s not about gender; it’s about a powerful state of mind and attitude that anyone can adopt.
While “serving cunt meaning” might seem like a recent addition to internet slang, propelled by meme culture, its roots are much deeper. The phrase has a rich history in drag culture, and those familiar with queer culture instantly recognize the qualities it represents.
To be told you are fierce, sassy, or even “sickening” (another compliment in this lexicon) is a major accolade. In drag terms, it’s the ultimate “slay”—meaning you’ve done something exceptionally well. This concept is perfectly encapsulated in RuPaul’s iconic mantra: “Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent” (C.U.N.T.). To win in the world of drag, a queen must “serve” (display) these very qualities throughout the competition.
This is a world away from the conventional, deeply offensive meaning of the c-word. Traditionally, it’s a vulgar term for female genitalia, used to degrade women and reduce them to sexual objects. It’s a misogynistic slur, widely considered one of the most offensive words in the English language.
The rise of this queer phrase into mainstream internet vernacular can be seen as a fascinating shift in the c-word’s status. Some cultural commentators argue it’s a form of reclamation, where a term weaponized against women is being re-appropriated and used with respect, even as a form of protest and empowerment.
Beyond “Serving Cunt”: Exploring the Vernacular of Ball Culture
But the language doesn’t stop at “serving cunt.” The lexicon of queer and drag culture is rich and vibrant. People are “slaying the house down boots” (doing something incredibly impressive), “reading someone to filth” (delivering masterful insults), or “throwing shade” (playfully teasing or subtly insulting).
Pop stars like Rina Sawayama and Dua Lipa are affectionately called “mother” (a term of endearment and high admiration). And when someone excels, they “leave no crumbs” (perform flawlessly, leaving nothing to be desired).
The spread of these phrases, often labeled as “internet vernacular,” is directly linked to the increasing mainstream visibility of drag culture. What was once niche slang is now common online language.
Beyoncé, a global icon, notably used the c-word in her 2022 song “Pure/Honey.” Her 2023 Renaissance tour even featured a stage prop: a news desk emblazoned with “KNTY 4 News.”
Understanding this linguistic evolution requires looking back at the origins of drag language, deeply rooted in “ball culture.” Terms like “shade” and “slay,” and phrases like “read to filth,” originate from African American Vernacular English (AAVE). AAVE is a distinct dialect of English spoken by many Black Americans, particularly in urban communities.
But how did AAVE become so intertwined with drag queen vocabulary? The answer lies in “ballroom” or “ball culture.” This LGBTQ+ subculture emerged in late 20th century New York City, founded by African American and Latino individuals. Balls are competitive events where participants “walk” (compete) for trophies, prizes, and recognition. The acclaimed 2018 TV series Pose vividly portrays New York City’s ball culture in the 1980s.
As ball culture gained traction, its unique language also spread, eventually becoming associated with the broader LGBTQ+ community. “Throwing shade,” “reading,” and “spilling tea” (sharing gossip) transcended the ballroom scene and entered wider usage.
A scene from the documentary Paris is Burning, showing a ballroom competition with judges and performers.
A ‘ball’ as depicted in the 1990 documentary, Paris is Burning. TCD/Prod.DB / Alamy Stock Photo
The Complexities of Language and Appropriation
This linguistic diffusion has sparked important discussions about cultural appropriation and authenticity. My own research in 2019 explored this in the context of linguistic variation on Twitter. Analyzing tweets from gay British men, I found they used AAVE features like “work dat pole gurl” and “y’all mad at hunty.” This wasn’t necessarily to claim “blackness,” but to project a “sassy queen” persona. By adopting AAVE stylistically, they tapped into existing tropes to express a specific gay identity.
However, this practice raises concerns. It can rely on a stereotypical and often racialized image of the “sassy black woman,” perpetuating a historical trope that reduces Black women to caricatures of vivacity and outspokenness.
Many who use phrases like “serving cunt” and other AAVE terms seem unaware of their origins. In 2020, internet personality Brittany Broski (known as the Kombucha Girl) mistakenly attributed AAVE terms to “stan culture,” referring to hyper-fan behavior.
This prompted responses from Black TikTok creators who rightly challenged the idea of a “new TikTok or Gen Z language.” They pointed out that many features attributed to this “new” language are, in fact, rooted in AAVE.
So, while anyone can, in theory, “serve cunt,” understanding the phrase requires acknowledging its long and rich history. It’s a history deeply entwined with drag culture and, even before that, with the powerful linguistic innovation of AAVE.
A graphic promoting a newsletter called "Something Good" from The Conversation.
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