Wack

Wack is a slang term used in American English to describe something that is considered uncool, of poor quality, or disappointing. It is most often used as an adjective, as in “that song is wack,” but can also function as a noun in some contexts, meaning a bad thing or person. The term is widely associated with hip-hop and urban youth culture, where it is used to express dismissal or critique of music, fashion, or ideas.

Etymology and history are informal and not well documented in formal lexicons. Wack is a variant of the word whack, with the sense shift from “to strike” or “to kill” in older English to the colloquial sense of “not good.” The spelling wack became particularly popular in late 20th-century American slang and spread through music, film, and online communities. The term is largely informal and regional, most common in North American urban vernacular, though it has appeared in other varieties of English.

Usage and nuance vary by context. While wack generally conveys negative judgment, it can be used playfully or self-deprecatingly among friends. It is distinct from related terms such as “lame” or “bogus,” though they share a similar critical purpose. The word is informal and may be considered rude in formal settings or with unfamiliar listeners, so it is typically used in casual conversation or media targeting younger audiences.

See also: whack, wacky, lame.