badass

[bad-as] / ˈbædˌæs /

NOUN

(vulgar) distinctively tough person

Synonyms

STRONG

agitator rebel

WEAK

demagogue dissident fighter frondeur renegade sparkplug

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even Xavier, who’s obviously the most badass guy in the world, is not totally equipped.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Just for a moment, I wanted to join the badass gang that made subversive movies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

"Not because I'm lying about anything, but because I'm a badass," she added.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

The point being that I should not expect to be a badass street officer on Day 1.

From Slate • Jan. 13, 2026

Either he was badass, or I was dreaming.

From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia