What is lad?

Lad is a term, often used ironically, to describe a young man who exhibits stereotypical masculine traits, often in an exaggerated or performative way. This can include things like:

  • Excessive drinking or partying
  • A focus on physical strength and appearance
  • An interest in sports, particularly football
  • Making comments about women
  • Engaging in banter with other men

The term can be used affectionately, but also critically, highlighting perceived immaturity or a lack of self-awareness. The "lad culture" has been linked to negative behaviors such as sexism, homophobia, and violence. The concept is related to discussions about modern masculinity and often is critiqued in the context of social issues such as toxic masculinity. The term itself has evolved over time, and its meaning can vary depending on the context and the speaker. Similar concepts include the bro stereotype and the idea of "blokey" culture. The portrayal of masculinity in media often reflects and reinforces these kinds of stereotypes.