trash talk

American  

[trash tawk] / ˈtræʃ ˌtɔk /

noun

1. disparaging or boastful language.

   Both sides exchanged trash talk throughout the game.

   Trash talk is banned on this forum.

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verb (used with or without object)

1. to use disparaging or boastful language to or about (someone).

   The site was used anonymously by high school bullies to publicly trash-talk, harass, and embarrass their targets.

   Maybe you should stop trash talking and check your facts!

Other Word Forms

• trash-talker
  noun

Etymology

Origin of trash talk

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

trash talk

Which is an argument for toning down the trash talk in online group chats where you can’t read expressions or read the room.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 30, 2026

A noble supporter of America’s rebels, the man who suited the Beatles, trash talk and more.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026

Reaves’ and Doncic’s love-hate relationship has spread to the rest of the team, as center Deandre Ayton uses the playful trash talk from his teammates to get him going before games.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 3, 2025

He might respond to the requisite trash talk with giggles.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 4, 2025

Sportscaster JB likes to taunt and trash talk during games like Dad used to do when he played.

From "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander