"Bae" is a slang term of endearment primarily used among youth, originating as an abbreviation of the words "baby" or "babe." It became widely popular around 2013-2014 through social media and hip-hop and R&B music lyrics
. Although some people suggest that "bae" stands for the acronym "before anyone else," this is a false etymology and likely a backronym created after the term was already in use
. In summary:
- Primary meaning: Short form of "baby" or "babe," used to refer to a significant other or someone you care about.
- False acronym: "Before anyone else" is a popular but incorrect backronym explanation.
- Usage: Common in informal contexts, especially in social media and music culture
This term is distinct from "BAE" as an acronym related to BAE Systems, a British aerospace and defense company, which is unrelated to the slang usage
