What does slayed mean?
“Slayed” is the past tense and past participle of “slay.” In its older, literal sense, it means to kill someone, often in a violent manner, as in a report that a fighter “slayed” an opponent. In contemporary informal English, however, “slayed” is also an emphatic compliment meaning that someone performed exceptionally well, looked striking, or made a strong impression. Expressions such as “slayed the concert” and “slayed the outfit” are playful and enthusiastic rather than literal. The word is commonly used in American English, though the literal form is understood in both British and American English. Because its slang meaning is flattering and highly energetic, “slayed” often carries a tone of admiration and excitement.
verbSlayed is the past tense and past participle of slay, meaning to kill someone, especially violently. Informally, it can also mean to perform exceptionally well or impress someone greatly.
- Killed, especially violently.
- Performed exceptionally well or made an impressive impression.
"The champion slayed her opponents in the final round."
"The new drummer absolutely slayed the set."
"Reports said that the soldier slayed several attackers before being overwhelmed."
From a literal killing blow to slang for a dazzling performance, 'slayed' has become a modern compliment for someone who absolutely conquered the moment.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slayed come from?
The verb descends from Old English “slægan,” meaning to kill or strike down, and is related to forms such as “slay,” “slain,” “slew,” and “slayer.” Modern “slayed” became established as a regular past-tense and past-participle form alongside the inherited irregular forms “slew” and “slain.” Its figurative sense of doing something exceptionally well developed later from the idea of defeating or overpowering something.
Related word forms
How slayed is actually used
The literal sense is serious and sometimes violent. The sense meaning 'performed exceptionally well' is informal, enthusiastic slang, especially common in American English and popular music, fashion, and online discussion.
Easily confused with slayed
Slain is the past participle of slay, whereas slayed is the past tense and an alternative past-participle form.
Slew is the irregular past tense of slay, while slayed is the regular past-tense form used especially in American English.