Bougey

Bougey (also spelled Bougie, or Boujee) is a slang term, often used pejoratively, to describe someone perceived as aspiring to a higher social class than they were born into, often through the display of wealth or affectation of upper-class tastes and behaviors. It can also be used more generally to describe things or places considered pretentious or excessively luxurious.

The term is often associated with African American vernacular English (AAVE) but is now used more widely across various demographic groups. The etymology is debated, but it is believed to be a shortened or altered form of "bourgeois," a French term referring to the middle class. However, unlike "bourgeois," which generally denotes a specific socio-economic class, "bougey" carries a connotation of social climbing and inauthenticity.

The use of "bougey" often implies a perceived contradiction between someone's background and their present behavior or appearance. It suggests a perceived disingenuous attempt to emulate a lifestyle considered more affluent or sophisticated.

While often used negatively, "bougey" can also be used humorously or even affectionately, depending on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the subject. Some might embrace the term as a playful acknowledgement of their aspirations or refined tastes.

The meaning and implications of the term are nuanced and can vary greatly depending on cultural context, individual perspective, and tone of voice.