What does Brat mean?
Brat describes a messy, rebellious, and unapologetic attitude or aesthetic, popularised by Charli XCX’s 2024 album.
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Slang. Also written brat summer, brat green, bratty.
Where it comes from
Pop artist Charli XCX released her sixth studio album, titled "Brat", in June 2024. Its low-fidelity, lime-green artwork and electronic club sound quickly spawned the viral phenomenon known as "brat summer". Charli XCX defined a brat as someone who is a little messy, likes to party, and feels herself while remaining brutally honest and unapologetic.
How it is actually used
The term rebranded messiness and imperfection as desirable, contrasting sharply with previous polished online aesthetics. While initially tied to nightlife culture and neon green visuals, it expanded to denote confidence, chaotic charm, or self-accepting flaws across social platforms. By late 2024, the term entered political commentary and corporate marketing, though overexposure diluted its subversiveness. On brand accounts, referencing "brat" can signal cultural literacy, provided it is deployed with self-awareness rather than forced corporate enthusiasm.
Examples
- "smudged eyeliner and a lime green hoodie, feeling very brat today"
- "forget clean girl aesthetic, this summer is strictly brat"
- "spilled my iced coffee on my laptop but we party through it, that’s brat"
Can a brand use it? Safe for brands
Safe for most brands when referencing chaotic energy, lime-green design, or playful messiness. Avoid using it to excuse genuine operational errors, as corporate self-deprecation can easily backfire.
Related terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What does brat mean in slang?
In modern internet culture, brat describes someone who is unapologetically messy, fun-loving, and authentic rather than perfectly curated.
Where did the brat summer trend come from?
It originated from British pop artist Charli XCX’s 2024 album "Brat", featuring a distinct lime-green cover and club-inspired music.
How can brands use brat in marketing?
Brands can lean into unpolished visuals or lime-green aesthetics, provided the tone remains lighthearted and self-aware.
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