Language
Fact-checked

At LanguageHumanities, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Does "Diss" Mean?

Helen Akers
Helen Akers

The word "diss" is a slang word used primarily in the United States. It usually means that an insult or hurtful criticism has been spoken against another person. "Diss" is heavily used in hip hop music to convey the meaning of contempt in a more contained and lyrical fashion.

Many urban circles use the word "diss" to not only express criticism and contempt, but to indicate instances of ignoring or snubbing another person. When an individual ignores someone else's greetings or attempts to initiate a conversation, it is referred to as a "diss." In this case, the other person is publicly making it clear that contact is not welcome.

"Diss" is used in hip hop music to convey an insult.
"Diss" is used in hip hop music to convey an insult.

Reasons for "dissing" someone may vary. Some individuals may consider contact from people that they don't know to be intrusive. Others might not know how to react to certain types of communication and their soft responses or lack of appreciation may be interpreted as a "diss."

Open displays of disrespect may also be considered to be a "diss." If one person insults another with a rude remark about his personality, clothing or performance, it is considered to be "dissing." In some hip hop and rap lyrics, a "diss" might also indicate a public break-up of a romantic relationship.

Urban circles often use the word "diss" to indicate instances of snubbing another person.
Urban circles often use the word "diss" to indicate instances of snubbing another person.

Hurtful criticism that is meant to sting, make a strong impact, or discredit an individual can also fit the meaning of this slang word. When individuals attempt to take someone else down, lower his self-esteem or lower his public image, it causes others to perceive him negatively. The targeted individual is considered to be "dissed" since the other person feels the need to express his personal disapproval.

Children who are "dissed" feel ignored by their peers.
Children who are "dissed" feel ignored by their peers.

Attacks against someone else's character that point out certain flaws might be considered to be "dissing." Saying that another person isn't good at a certain task in an overtly negative fashion would also be an example of this. When someone is "dissed" by another person, the "disser" is publicly expressing disdain or strong dislike for the target's person or behavior.

A "diss" might be used as an encouragement to make positive changes in one's life.
A "diss" might be used as an encouragement to make positive changes in one's life.

Even a minor insult might be interpreted as someone "dissing" someone else. On the other hand, depending upon a person's sensitivity to criticism and insults, only blatant forms of disrespect and snubs might be considered to be a true "diss." Regardless, the experience of being "dissed" is not usually something positive or welcome.

Other forms of behavior that may be considered to be "dissing" include betraying someone in a personal relationship. Cheating on a romantic partner may be expressed as being "dissed." Many rap and hip hop lyrics refer to the act of cheating or ignoring romantic gestures as "dissing."

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • "Diss" is used in hip hop music to convey an insult.
      By: Nikita Buida
      "Diss" is used in hip hop music to convey an insult.
    • Urban circles often use the word "diss" to indicate instances of snubbing another person.
      By: Ekaterina Nikitina
      Urban circles often use the word "diss" to indicate instances of snubbing another person.
    • Children who are "dissed" feel ignored by their peers.
      By: Monkey Business
      Children who are "dissed" feel ignored by their peers.
    • A "diss" might be used as an encouragement to make positive changes in one's life.
      By: Monkey Business
      A "diss" might be used as an encouragement to make positive changes in one's life.