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General

kickback

What does kickback mean?

A small, relaxed gathering of close friends, more mellow than a full party.

"It's just a kickback, like ten people max."

Origin

American slang from 'kick back,' meaning to relax. It became the standard term for a small, chill party, especially in Gen Z and AAVE usage.

Frequently asked questions

What does kickback mean in party slang?
It means a small, chill, low-key gathering of friends — the relaxed opposite of a big wild party.
What's the difference between a kickback and a party?
A kickback is intimate and mellow with a small crowd, while a party is bigger and louder. A kickback can always escalate, though.
How many people are at a kickback?
Usually a small group — think a handful to maybe fifteen people. Once it gets crowded, it's just a party.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.