Opp Meaning Slang is a term you’ve likely seen in texts, TikTok comments, rap lyrics, or gaming chats—but what does it really mean when someone gets called an “opp”?
Simply put, “opp” is short for “opposition” and refers to an enemy, rival, or someone who’s not on your side. Whether it’s used in street slang, online drama, or competitive gaming, calling someone your “opp” means they’re against you, not your friend.
Understanding Opp Meaning Slang helps you avoid confusion, especially since this word can carry serious or aggressive undertones depending on the context. In this post, we’ll explain where it comes from, how it’s used today, and what to consider before using it yourself.
Definition & Meaning of Opp Slang
“Opp” means “opposition” or “enemy” in slang.
It comes from the word “opponent” and is commonly used in rap, social media, and casual conversations.
Key Points:
- “Opp” = Enemy or rival.
- It’s often used when talking about someone who’s on the opposite side of a conflict.
- It can be serious (in gang or street settings) or light (in school or online arguments).
Examples in Dialogue:
- Text: “Don’t hang with him. He’s an opp.”
- Gaming Chat: “They teamed up with the opps. We lost.”
- Conversation:
Jay: “Why didn’t you invite Malik?”
Ty: “He’s an opp. We’re not cool anymore.”
Sometimes, “opp” refers to law enforcement in street slang, especially when discussing criminal activity.
Usage Tip:
Don’t throw around “opp” casually if you’re unsure. In some circles, it’s a serious word with heavy meaning.
And just like “opp,” some slang can be misunderstood if used the wrong way. Check out our guide on ASL meaning slang—you’ll be surprised how this three-letter term is used in texting today.
Background & History of OPP Slang
Where did “opp” come from?
“Opp” is short for “opposition” or “opponent.” It first gained popularity in Chicago’s drill rap scene in the early 2010s. Rappers like Chief Keef and Lil Durk helped push it into mainstream hip-hop.
Over time, the word spread through:
- Music
- Social media
- Street culture
- Gaming communities
Originally, “opp” was used to describe a rival gang member or someone viewed as a threat. But as rap became more mainstream, so did the slang.
Now, it’s used more broadly—like calling a school rival your opp, or even joking about a friend acting like an enemy.
Timeline:
- 2010s: Chicago drill scene → gang-related term.
- 2015–2018: Featured heavily in rap lyrics.
- 2020s: Mainstream slang used in texting, TikTok, Instagram, and gaming.
Today, the context matters more than ever. “Opp” could mean a deadly rival or just someone you no longer vibe with.
And if you’re interested in how slang evolves in different regions, check out our guide to the Ohio slang meaning—you might be surprised by what’s trending in the Midwest.
Usage in Various Contexts
Let’s look at how “opp” shows up in daily life.
1. Texting
- “She’s talking to the opp again 🤦♂️”
- “I caught my ex texting the opp.”
2. Social Media
- TikTok caption: “When you run into your opp at the mall 💀”
- Twitter: “My teacher’s the real opp fr.”
3. Opp Slang in Gaming
- “They’re camping with the opps!”
- “Let’s squad up. I don’t trust the opp.”
4. Real-Life Conversations
Maya: “You still cool with Tre?”
Dee: “Nah. He switched sides. Full opp behavior.”
Note: Even in jokes, it implies betrayal, rivalry, or hostility.
Common Misconceptions & Clarifications
Some people confuse “opp” with unrelated meanings. Let’s clear things up.
Misconception 1: Opp means someone you don’t like.
Not exactly. “Opp” specifically means someone working against you.
Misconception 2: It’s just a fun, harmless term.
Sometimes. But in gang culture or serious conflict, calling someone an “opp” can provoke real violence.
3: Opp means police.
True, in some street slang, opp meaning can talk about law enforcement or snitches.
Is It Offensive?
In general use, not offensive.
But in certain settings (e.g., gang-related posts), it can sound serious or even threatening. Just like “opp,” some slang terms can shift meaning depending on the context. Check out the ASL meaning slang to see how a simple phrase can carry different tones in modern texting.
Similar Terms & Alternatives to OPP
Let’s look at some related slang and how they compare.
| Term | Meaning | Example |
| Opp | Enemy / rival | “Don’t talk to my opp.” |
| Hater | Someone who dislikes you | “She’s just a hater.” |
| Snake | Betrayer / fake friend | “He acted cool then snaked me.” |
| Fake | Inauthentic person | “I cut her off. She’s fake.” |
| Fed | Police / law enforcement | “The opps watching.” |
These can sometimes overlap, but “opp” is stronger than “hater” or “fake.”
How to Respond to This Term
Your response depends on the tone and situation.
1. Casual / Playful
Friend: “You sided with the opp!”
You: “😂 I was just tryna win, bro!”
2. Funny
Text: “Don’t be the opp.”
Reply: “Only on Tuesdays 😎”
3. Professional
Avoid slang in serious settings. Use:
“Let’s stay objective.” or “Let’s keep it neutral.”
4. Privacy-Conscious
Don’t respond if it feels aggressive. Block or report the person.
Regional or Cultural Differences
“Opp” is most common in the U.S., especially in:
- Urban slang
- African American Vernacular English (AAVE)
- Rap culture
However, the term is now known globally thanks to:
- Hip-hop music
- TikTok & Instagram trends
- Gaming YouTubers
In the UK, “opp” is also popular among drill rappers and urban communities.
But in many non-English-speaking countries, the word may be unknown or misunderstood.
OPP Comparison with Similar Terms
Here’s a quick look:
| Word | Intent Level | Seriousness | Common Context |
| Opp | High | Medium–High | Street, rap, gaming |
| Hater | Medium | Low | Social media, school |
| Snake | High | Medium | Friend betrayal |
| Fake | Medium | Low | Social circles |
| Fed | N/A | High | Criminal/street context |
“Opp” is sharper and more confrontational than most slang terms.
Usage in Online Communities & Dating Apps
OPP On TikTok & Twitter:
- Memes: “POV: You see your opp at Starbucks ☕”
- Threads: “Unfollowed the opp. Peace restored.”
On Gaming Platforms (Fortnite, GTA, etc.):
- “He’s working with the opps!”
- “We got ambushed by the opp team.”
On Dating Apps:
Rare, but someone might say:
- “No opp energy pls 😤”
- “If you follow my ex, you’re the opp.”
Use it only if the context fits. Otherwise, it can confuse people.
Hidden or Offensive Meanings
Is “opp” ever offensive?
Yes, in gang-affiliated or threatening ways.
Don’t use it if you’re unsure of the company or tone.
- In casual talk: Fine.
- In aggressive posts, it Could sound threatening.
- In texts with friends: Usually okay.
Tone + audience = everything. Avoid overusing it just to sound trendy.
Suitability for Professional Communication
No, “opp” is not suitable for professional settings.
Avoid in:
- Work emails
- Job interviews
- Academic papers
Instead, use
- “Opponent”
- “Adversary”
- “Rival”
- “Competition”
Save slang for social or casual use.
FAQs
Q1: What does opp stand for?
A: Opp is short for “opposition” or “opponent,” often used in street slang or rap culture to refer to a rival, enemy, or someone from an opposing group.
It can also be used more casually to describe anyone you’re against or not cool with.
Q2: Is opp a bad word?
A: Opp” isn’t a curse word, but it can have a negative or serious tone, especially in street slang or gang-related contexts.
In casual use, it simply means an enemy or rival, but context matters a lot.
Q3: Can I call my friend an OPP as a joke?
A: Yes, but be careful—while some friends might find it funny, others could take it the wrong way depending on the tone and setting.
Since “opp” can imply being a snitch or enemy, make sure it’s playful and everyone’s in on the joke.
Q4: Where did opp originate?
A: The slang term “opp” originated in Chicago drill music and street culture, where it stands for “opposition” or “opponent.”
It became widely popular through rap lyrics and social media, eventually spreading into everyday slang.
Q5: What’s the difference between an “opp” and a “hater”?
A: An “opp” is usually seen as a direct enemy or rival, often with real conflict involved, while a “hater” is someone who dislikes or criticizes you, often from a distance.
Opps are seen as threats; haters are more like background noise.
Q6: Is it okay to use “opp” in school?
A: It’s best to avoid using “opp” in school, especially around teachers or in formal settings, since it can be linked to violence or gang slang.
Even if meant as a joke, it might be misunderstood or taken seriously by others.
Q7: What does opp energy mean?
A: Opp energy” refers to someone acting shady, disloyal, or like an enemy, especially when they’re supposed to be on your side. It’s a way to call out fake behavior or negative vibes from someone close.
Conclusion
Whether it shows up in music, memes, or messages, understanding Opp meaning slang is key to keeping up with modern talk, especially in online spaces or street-influenced slang. “Opp” isn’t just a trendy term—it often signals conflict, rivalry, or someone who’s clearly not on your side.
By learning the real meaning behind Opp meaning slang, you avoid using it out of context and stay aware of the tone it can carry. From gaming chats to rap battles, knowing who’s an “opp” might just help you steer clear of drama—or spot it before it starts.
As with many slang terms, meaning can shift depending on tone and setting. In some circles, Opp meaning slang may even be used playfully, but it still carries a sense of tension or challenge underneath.
