What Does Simp Mean?
A simp is someone who goes above and beyond for their crush or someone they're attracted to — often without getting anything in return. They'll drop everything, spend money, defend them in comment sections, and generally sacrifice their dignity on the altar of unrequited affection.
The line between "being a good person" and "simping" is hotly debated, but the internet generally agrees: if you're doing too much for someone who barely knows your name, you might be simping.
Where Did Simp Come From?
Simp has been around since at least the late '90s in hip-hop (it appeared in songs by Three 6 Mafia and others). Some say it's short for "simpleton" or "someone idolizing mediocre p***y." Others argue it evolved independently.
TikTok and Reddit revived it around 2019-2020, often in the context of calling out people (usually men) who go overboard trying to impress someone online. "Simp Nation" became a meme, and "no simp September" became an actual challenge.
How to Use Simp
- Calling someone out: "Bro donated $500 to a streamer. Certified simp."
- Self-aware: "I drove 40 minutes to bring her coffee. I'm simping and I know it."
- As a verb: "Stop simping, she left you on read."
- Debate mode: "Being nice isn't simping!" (the eternal argument)
Examples in the Wild
"I would simply not simp. but then I see her and all logic exits my body"
"he said he's not a simp but he has notifications on for her Instagram stories"
Why It Matters
The simp discourse is actually interesting because it sits at the intersection of dating culture, gender dynamics, and online parasocial relationships. At its best, calling out simping is about encouraging self-respect. At its worst, it's used to shame people (especially men) for showing any emotion or kindness.
The nuance matters: being kind and thoughtful isn't simping. Losing yourself entirely for someone who doesn't care? That's the simp zone, and you deserve better, bestie.