Definition
Someone who tries excessively hard, especially in a casual setting. From gaming where a 'sweat' or 'sweaty player' treats every casual match like a tournament final. Now used outside gaming: a kid who studies for a quiz that doesn't count is being 'sweaty.' Not quite an insult, not quite a compliment. More of an observation that someone's intensity doesn't match the stakes.
Translation for Parents
If your kid calls someone 'sweaty,' they're saying that person is trying way too hard for the situation. It's like bringing a briefcase to a pickup basketball game. The vibe is 'chill out, it's not that serious.' Comes from competitive gaming where some players treat every round like it's the world championship.
Examples
“bro is being so sweaty in gym class its dodgeball not the olympics”
“He's trying way too hard in gym class, it's just dodgeball”
“why are you being sweaty its just a group project”
“Why are you being so intense about this, it's just a group project”
Cringe Score
Your kid will cringe
The irony of a parent learning what 'sweaty' means in slang context is that the act of learning teen slang is itself kind of sweaty.
Category
insult
Peak
2020-06
Last Verified
2026-02-26
Sources
editorial, urban_dictionary, reddit