Meuf

Meuf is a French slang term used to refer to a woman or girl in informal speech. It functions as a feminine noun, with the plural form meufs. The word is closely associated with urban, especially Parisian, slang and is commonly heard in everyday conversation, music, and popular culture.

Etymology and register: Meuf is a form of verlan or back slang derived from femme, the standard French word for woman. The inversion and alteration give a word that carries a casual, street-origin flavor. Because of its informal nature, meuf is typically avoided in formal writing or polite settings, but it is widely understood in many French-speaking communities.

Usage and connotations: In many contexts, meuf can be a neutral or affectionate term among friends, similar to “girl/woman” in English casual speech. However, it can also carry sexist or objectifying overtones depending on tone, intent, and audience. Some people consider it crude or demeaning, particularly when used to stereotype or reduce a woman to her gender. Speakers should be mindful of context and audience when choosing to use it.

Variations and notes: The masculine counterpart is not standard, as the term is inherently feminine; plural usage is des meufs. Meuf appears frequently in rap, street literature, and social media, illustrating its role in contemporary urban French speech. In most formal contexts, standard terms like femme or une femme are preferred.