DictionaryRelationships

Simp

Definition

Someone perceived as showing excessive attention, devotion, or submission toward a person they are attracted to.

Example
His friends called him a simp for agreeing with every post his crush made.
How it is used

Simp can be a noun or verb and is usually used in romantic contexts. It often mocks someone for giving excessive praise or attention in hopes of affection, though it is frequently overused for ordinary kindness or respect.

Origin and context

Simp was historically a shortening of simpleton. A relationship-related verb sense involving excessive submission was documented in a 1967–68 college slang study, appeared in hip-hop and R&B by the 1980s and 1990s, and became highly visible online around 2019 and 2020.

Common variations

simping

Showing excessive devotion, praise, attention, or submissiveness toward someone.

simp for

To be intensely attracted or devoted to a person, celebrity, character, or sometimes an object.

simp behavior

Actions interpreted as excessively eager to please or gain romantic approval.

Frequently asked questions
What does simp mean?

A simp is someone accused of giving excessive attention, praise, or devotion to a person they are attracted to.

Is being nice the same as simping?

No. Ordinary kindness and respect are not inherently simping; the insult usually implies an extreme or one-sided attempt to gain approval.

Can simp be used as a verb?

Yes. To simp for someone means to show intense admiration, attraction, or devotion toward them.

Keep learning

Related terms

Browse all
Communication

Glazing

Giving someone or something excessive praise, often in a way that seems insincere or annoying.

Read definition
Dating and social slang

Rizz

Charisma or skill in attracting, charming, or flirting with someone.

Read definition
Fandom

Stan

An extremely devoted fan, or to support and admire someone or something enthusiastically.

Read definition