Pop
kiki
What does kiki mean?
A kiki is a low-stakes hang. Friends, laughter, gossip, maybe a bit of friendly competition, none of the pressure of a main ball. In the wider scene 'kiki balls' are the entry-level events where newcomers cut their teeth. Can also just mean cackling and spilling tea on the sofa.
"It's not a real ball, just a kiki — come through, walk a category, have a laugh."
Origin
From Black and Latino LGBTQ ballroom slang for laughter and gossip; older roots in the word 'kee-kee' for laughing. Boosted by the 2012 Scissor Sisters song 'Let's Have a Kiki.'
Frequently asked questions
What does kiki mean in slang?
It's a casual gathering for gossip and laughs with friends. It comes from ballroom and drag culture.
What is a kiki ball?
It's a more informal, beginner-friendly tier of ballroom competition, often for younger people, as opposed to the mainstream 'major' balls.
Does kiki mean laughing?
Originally yes — it comes from 'kee-kee,' meaning laughter. It grew to mean the whole gossipy hangout.
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