“Side eye” refers to a subtle, often disapproving or skeptical glance given from the corner of one’s eyes. It conveys a sense of suspicion, doubt, or subtle criticism without direct confrontation. This phenomenon gained widespread recognition through a viral Instagram and TikTok trend, where voice clips of “bombastic side eye” or “criminal offensive side eye,” went viral, sparking a social media frenzy. Many content creators made their own versions with this viral trend, taking these social media platforms by storm.

The term summarizes the art of expressing doubt or skepticism through facial expressions, adding a layer of nuanced communication. It’s a gesture often recognized in social contexts to convey a silent, judgmental response.

Example

“When I mentioned the outrageous excuse, Maria gave me a major side eye, indicating her disbelief in the story.”