- A slang term meaning perfectly done, styled, attractive, or generally excellent.
- Most commonly used to describe eyebrows, hair, makeup, or outfits, but can occasionally describe other things that are executed perfectly.
- **Note:** This term is now considered dated by many, particularly Gen Z.
Explanation
Origin
- Popularized in a 2014 Vine video by Kayla Newman (@PeachesMonroee). In the video, she describes her eyebrows as being on fleek.
- The term exploded in popularity rapidly on social media (Vine, Instagram, Twitter) and was picked up by celebrities and brands.
- The exact origin or meaning of fleek itself before the Vine is unclear, likely coined by Newman. It sounds like a blend of fly (stylish), slick, and chic.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal (More current):
- On point.
- Snatched.
- Fire. / That's fire. (Meaning excellent, cool)
- Looking sharp.
- Clean. (Well put-together, stylish)
Milder/Standard:
- Perfect.
- Excellent.
- Very well done.
- Impeccable.
Situational Appropriateness
- Highly informal slang.
- Was primarily used in casual settings among friends or on social media.
- Due to being dated, using it now might sound out of touch or be used ironically. Avoid in any formal context.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Someone completely unfamiliar with mid-2010s internet slang won't understand it.
- Younger people (Gen Z) might perceive its use as out of touch or intentionally ironic/humorous.
Examples
- Wow, your eyebrows are on fleek today! (The classic usage)
- Her outfit was perfectly coordinated, totally on fleek.
- He got his hair cut, and it's on fleek.
Dialogue
Person A: Ready to go? Let me see your makeup.
Person B: Okay, how does it look? I spent ages on my eyeliner.
Person A: Whoa, it looks amazing! Seriously on fleek. Perfect wings!
Person B: Yes! Thank you! Glad the effort paid off.
Social Media Examples
- (Archive/Older Post): Tweet from 2015: Finally got my eyebrows done! Feeling on fleek ✨ #eyebrowsonfleek #beauty
- (Ironic Usage Today): TikTok video making fun of older slang: Remember when we said eyebrows were on fleek? 😂 #millennial #cringe #2014
- Instagram comment (possibly older person or ironic): Your hair is on fleek!
Response Patterns
- Accepting the compliment: Aw, thank you! / Thanks, I tried!
- Returning the compliment: Yours too!
- If used humorously/ironically (due to being dated): Laughter, or playing along.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After complimenting someone with on fleek:
- They might thank you or share how they achieved the look: Thanks! I used this new eyebrow pencil.
- You might ask for tips: How do you get your eyeliner so on fleek?
Conversation Starter
- Yes, can be used as a compliment to start a conversation, though its dated nature might make it sound slightly awkward or ironic depending on the speaker and audience.
Intonation
- Usually said with admiration or approval, often with enthusiasm.
- Emphasis on fleek. Eyebrows on FLEEK!
Generation Differences
- Peaked in popularity around 2014-2016, heavily associated with Millennials and the Vine era. Gen Z generally considers it outdated or cringe. Older generations likely never used it.
Regional Variations
- Originated in the US (AAVE influence via Vine), spread globally through social media but its usage has declined significantly everywhere.