What Does “Muva” Mean? The Slang Term Explained

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Plus, learn why Amber Rose calls herself “muva”
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You may have seen the term “muva” in texting or on social media, but what exactly does it mean? It’s an exaggerated way of saying “mother,” which is a term of endearment and respect for women. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about the term “muva,” including its meaning, usage, and origins. We’ll also cover why fans call their favorite female celebrities “mother” and other popular slang terms.

“Muva” Definition & Origins

The slang term “muva” means “mother.” It originates from the Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ ballroom scene, where the term “mother” refers to an older, caregiving figure in the community. "Muva" was popularized by Amber Rose in 2016, and was later used to describe iconic female celebrities, such as Beyoncé and Taylor Swift.

Section 1 of 4:

What does “muva” mean?

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  1. “Muva” is an exaggerated way of saying “mother,” which is a term of endearment and respect for a feminine icon. It’s typically used to describe a woman who’s confident, stylish, influential, culture-shaping, and an absolute trailblazer. The term was popularized by Amber Rose in 2016, and it became mainstream on Stan Twitter and TikTok in 2023. [1]
    • How to pronounce “muva:” It sounds like “mother” but with an exaggerated twist (muh-vuh).
    • Examples of muvas: Rihanna, Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Naomi Campbell, Mariah Carey, Angela Bassett, Whitney Houston, Megan Thee Stallion, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Adele
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Section 2 of 4:

Origin & Spread of “Muva”

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  1. 1
    “Muva” originates from the Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ ballroom scene. In the mid-20th century, Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ people created an underground ballroom scene for members to find community and family. The term “mother” was used to signify an older, caregiving figure in the houses they lived in, as well as a “drag mother” who would teach a new queen how to vogue. [2]
    • The term “mother” gained mainstream popularity in the 1990s and 2000s, with TV shows like Pose and RuPaul’s Drag Race .
  2. 2
    Model and TV personality Amber Rose popularized the term “muva.” In 2016, Rose began calling herself “Muva Rosebud” as part of her brand, similar to how Beyoncé is known as “Queen Bey” and Lady Gaga is known as “Mother Monster.” Her fans, the “rosebuds,” began calling her “Muva” for short, and she even put the word on her merch and created a MuvaMoji app . [3]
    • According to Rose, “muva” is East coast slang for “mother.”
  3. 3
    People began to use “mother” to refer to female pop stars and actresses. In 2023, fans started calling their favorite female celebrities “mother” to express admiration and respect. Women who embody “mother” energy aren’t just great performers—they give their fans everything . They are iconic, influential, dramatic, legendary, and have redefined what femininity means and how it’s expressed. [4]
    • A “mother” highlights that femininity can be both soft and strong, and inspires women to be bold, powerful, loud, weird, sexual, vulnerable, or whatever they choose!
    • Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and Taylor Swift are often called “mother” because they are trailblazers in the music industry. In fact, Beyoncé was named “Mother of the Year” by Grindr for 2023. [5]
    • Fans will also use the phrase “mother is mothering,” which means someone is absolutely slaying or dominating their lane. It’s a way to hype up their fave and acknowledge that they’re shaping the culture. [6]
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Section 3 of 4:

How to Use “Muva”

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  1. Whether you’re a Barbz, Swiftie, or Little Monster, you can use “muva” to talk about your favorite celebrities. Think of it as the ultimate compliment—it means someone is strong, successful, and absolutely killing the game! [7]
    • “Nicki is muva. Don’t play with her!”
    • “Ugh, did you see Sabrina Carpenter’s tour outfits?! It’s giving muvaaaaaa 😩😩😩”
    • “After the release of Cowboy Carter , Beyoncé proved once again that she is MUVA.”
  2. Maybe your colleague is taking charge of a meeting or your friend just secured a raise. These are just a few situations where people are giving “muva” energy and deserve the title.
    • “You’re killing it today, muva!”
    • “Muva, you dominated that meeting, and everyone was SHOOK!”
    • “Whenever you walk into the room, you bring real muva energy. Keep it up!”
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Section 4 of 4:

More Popular Slang

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  1. In slang, the term “motha” is an informal way of saying “mother.” It can be used to refer to someone’s actual mother, or as a term of endearment for a confident, successful, and empowering woman.
    • “Love you, motha!”
    • “Muva is always making things happen 💸”
    • “She’s bold, confident, and determined…the definition of a mutha!”
  2. The term “bruv” is British slang for “brother.” It’s a term of endearment that’s typically used between male friends, similar to the terms “bro” or “bruh” in America. [8]
    • “Let’s go, bruv!”
    • “What’s happening, bruv?!”
    • “Bruv, do you have plans tonight?”
  3. A “daddy” usually refers to a dominant, wealthy, and ultra-attractive man who oozes charm and sexual appeal. The term is often used to address an older boyfriend or male romantic partner. [9]
    • “Hey, daddy 😏”
    • “Zayn Malik is DADDY. That’s all.”
    • “OMG, I didn’t realize Pedro Pascal was such a daddy 🥵”
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      References

      1. ↑ https://slang.net/meaning/mother
      2. ↑ https://time.com/6976939/mother-queer-trans-ballroom/
      3. ↑ https://www.shefinds.com/what-is-muva-a-quick-lesson-on-the-term-thats-blowing-up-social-media/
      4. ↑ https://time.com/6976939/mother-queer-trans-ballroom/
      5. ↑ https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/beyonce-mother-of-year-grindr-1234929461/
      6. ↑ https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/mother-lgbtq-slang
      7. ↑ https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/mother-lgbtq-slang
      8. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/british-slang-words/
      9. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/browse/daddy

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