The query of whether being told one is “serving cunt” would be offensive navigates a complex linguistic terrain. Despite the inclusion of the c-word, this phrase, within certain contexts, doesn’t intend to insult or perpetuate misogyny. Instead, it holds a unique connotation among those in queer communities where its usage has endured.

This particular phrase encapsulates qualities like confidence, sassiness, or fierceness. It’s a state of mind, an attitude not limited by gender.

Interestingly, while now firmly entrenched in “internet vernacular” and attaining meme-like status, its roots precede the digital era. The phrase boasts a longstanding association with drag culture, a realm where qualities encapsulated by this phrase hold significant recognition.

To be labeled as fierce, sassy, or “sickening” (another seemingly paradoxical compliment) within this culture is an honor—a phenomenon epitomized by RuPaul’s iconic expression: “Confidence, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent” (C.U.N.T.). To claim victory, one must “serve” (exhibit) these traits throughout the competition.

However, this queer usage starkly contrasts with the conventional interpretation of the c-word, typically used as a vulgar and offensive term, reducing women to objects of sexual desire. Widely regarded as one of the most offensive words in the English language, it functions primarily as a misogynistic slur.

The mainstream integration of this queer phrase could be seen as a pivotal moment in reevaluating the status of the c-word. Some argue it represents a form of reclamation—appropriating a term frequently weaponized against women, repurposed as a form of protest and resistance.

Yet, the usage extends beyond just “serving cunt.” It extends to “slaying the house down boots” (achieving something remarkable), “reading people to filth” (excessively criticising someone), or “throwing shade” (playfully insulting someone).

Moreover, it involves endearing terms for popstars like Rina Sawayama and Dua Lipa, referencing them as “mother.” It encompasses doing things exceptionally well without leaving any trace—”leaving no crumbs.”

The diffusion, or appropriation, of these phrases signifies a broader trend where the language from drag culture has transcended its origins, becoming part of what’s commonly referred to as the internet vernacular.

Even pop icons like Beyoncé incorporated the c-word in her 2022 song “Pure/Honey” and featured it in her 2023 Renaissance world tour’s staging, a testament to its evolving acceptance.

Understanding this linguistic evolution necessitates acknowledging the roots of much of this language within drag culture and its origination from African American Vernacular English (AAVE). These expressions—like “shade,” “slay,” and “read to filth”—originated from black American urban communities.

However, the connection between a minority ethnic group’s language and drag queens might seem puzzling. This link traces back to “ball culture,” an LGBTQ+ subculture formed by African American and Latino individuals in late 20th-century New York City, known for competitive events called balls where participants vie for trophies and fame. The 2018 series “Pose” documented this culture in 1980s New York City.

As ball culture became more widespread, so did its language, transitioning from a niche vocabulary to being associated with the LGBTQ+ community at large. Phrases like “throwing shade” or “spilling tea” extended beyond the ballroom.

However, this diffusion sparked debates about appropriation and authenticity. The use of AAVE features by certain groups, like gay British men on Twitter, raised questions about adopting these linguistic elements not to claim blackness but to portray a “sassy queen” identity.

Nonetheless, such practices are problematic as they tend to reinforce historical tropes, particularly the depiction of the “sassy black woman,” reducing black women to vivacious stereotypes.

Moreover, many users of phrases like “serving cunt” and other AAVE features might lack awareness of their historical origins. This disconnect was evident when popular figures incorrectly labeled AAVE terms as “stan culture” or when black TikTok creators rejected claims of a “new TikTok language,” asserting the roots of these features in AAVE.

Ultimately, while anyone can ostensibly “serve cunt,” acknowledging the phrase’s extensive history in drag culture, and its roots in AAVE even before that, remains crucial.