BAE
BAE (noun) means a term of endearment for a romantic partner or someone very close to you. Example: “He posted a photo with the caption "date night with bae.”
How to use BAE
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual, affectionate way to refer to a boyfriend, girlfriend, or close loved one.
Very informal internet and text slang; not used in formal contexts.
Word forms
baed past tense, baes plural, baes plural, baes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He posted a photo with the caption "date night with _____."
Etymology
Popular slang of disputed origin — often explained as a shortening of "babe" or "baby," and sometimes jokingly claimed to stand for "before anyone else."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for BAE
See all rhymes for BAE →Frequently asked questions
What does “BAE” mean?
The word “BAE” means a term of endearment for a romantic partner or someone very close to you. In plain terms, a casual, affectionate way to refer to a boyfriend, girlfriend, or close loved one.
How do you pronounce “BAE”?
“BAE” is pronounced bay (/beɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “BAE” in a sentence?
Here is “BAE” used in a sentence: “He posted a photo with the caption "date night with bae.".”
What part of speech is “BAE”?
“BAE” is a noun.
Is “BAE” a common word?
“BAE” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between bae and babe?
Bae and babe are both informal terms of endearment for a romantic partner, and are often used interchangeably. Bae is a more recent slang coinage popularized through social media, while babe is an older, more widely accepted term across generations.
Is bae only used for romantic partners?
Bae typically refers to a romantic partner or someone very close to you, but in casual use it is sometimes extended to close friends or even favorite objects and foods as a joking way to show strong affection. Its core meaning remains a term of endearment for someone special.
Is bae considered formal or informal language?
Bae is highly informal slang, appropriate for texting, social media, and casual conversation between friends or partners. It would be out of place in formal writing, professional communication, or academic contexts.