Current:Home > MarketsBarbiecore? Cottagecore? What does 'core' mean in slang and why can't we stop using it-DB Wealth Institute B2 Expert Reviews
Barbiecore? Cottagecore? What does 'core' mean in slang and why can't we stop using it
View Date:2024-12-23 16:04:07
Merriam-Webster defines "core" as "a central and often foundational part usually distinct from the enveloping part by a difference in nature."
But as a suffix, "-core" has taken on a new life thanks to social media. Maybe you've seen someone describe something as Barbiecore, cottagecore, corecore, the list goes on. Each "-core" has its own unique characteristics.
But what do they all mean? Here's a primer on the "-core" trend.
What does 'core' mean?
Dating back to Middle English, the word "core" has referred to an integral or a defining part of something. For instance, a "core" tenant or principle.
This meaning shapes the modern interpretation of "-core." According to Dictionary.com, the suffix describes and is often associated with specific aesthetics, trends or movements. Almost anything can be used in conjunction with "-core."
The "-core" trend centers around preexisting subcultures or niches. This can include anything from patterns to colors to clothing items. If you really like things that are pink or red and covered in hearts, you might like "lovecore." If you are a big fan of the mystical, ethereal and magical, "fairycore" could be for you (think butterflies, sparkles and flowers).
Sometimes a "-core" can be hyper-specific, relating to a particular celebrity versus a more general vibe. A "Harry Styles-core" aesthetic might include cherries, pearls and Pleasing merchandise. A "Taylor Swift-core" aesthetic may vary depending on your favorite "era," or it could feature mirror (disco) balls.
How to use 'core'
Here is how to use "-core" in a conversation:
- "I love your top, it's so balletcore."
- "I'm not a fan of minimalism. I prefer cluttercore."
- "Ever since she started watching 'Bridgerton', her aesthetic is very royalcore."
Just Curious for more? We've got you covered
USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "What is the olive theory?" to "What is a 'stan'?" to "How many Zodiac signs are there?" − we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer.
veryGood! (1455)
Related
- 'Full House' star Dave Coulier diagnosed with stage 3 cancer
- When You're Ready Come and Get a Look at Selena Gomez's Best MTV VMAs Outfit Yet
- Tyre Nichols: Timeline of investigation into his death
- Serial killer and former police officer Anthony Sully dies on death row at a California prison
- 'I know how to do math': New Red Lobster CEO says endless shrimp deal is not coming back
- Former NFL receiver Mike Williams dies at age 36 after more than a week in intensive care
- When You're Ready Come and Get a Look at Selena Gomez's Best MTV VMAs Outfit Yet
- Meet The Sterling Forever Jewelry Essentials You'll Wear Again & Again
- Over 1.4 million Honda, Acura vehicles subject of US probe over potential engine failure
- 5 former Memphis officers charged in Tyre Nichols death now face federal charges
Ranking
- Oklahoma school district adding anti-harassment policies after nonbinary teen’s death
- Missouri governor appoints appeals court judge to the state Supreme Court
- These tech giants are at the White House today to talk about the risks of AI
- NFL power rankings Week 2: Are Jets cooked after Aaron Rodgers' injury?
- Vikings' Camryn Bynum celebrates game-winning interception with Raygun dance
- After nearly a month, West Virginia community can use water again
- Carmakers doing little to protect the vast amounts of data that vehicles collect, study shows
- 5 former Memphis officers indicted by federal grand jury in Tyre Nichols' death
Recommendation
-
A crowd of strangers brought 613 cakes and then set out to eat them
-
The key to Peloton instructor Cody Rigsby's success: 'Self-deprecation is my motto'
-
Boy hit by police car on Long Island will be taken off life support, mother says
-
After nearly a month, West Virginia community can use water again
-
Trump hammered Democrats on transgender issues. Now the party is at odds on a response
-
North Carolina Republicans are in a budget standoff because of gambling provisions
-
8-year-old boy accidentally shot when barrel with guns inside set on fire
-
6 protesters arrested as onshore testing work for New Jersey wind farm begins