Big Brother: Common phrases and what they mean

Big Brother season 26 (image via Paramount+)
Big Brother season 26 contestants (Image via Paramount+)

For more than twenty years, Big Brother has delighted viewers, and its terminology has developed alongside the program. Both new viewers and fans of the show frequently find the jargon confusing.

Understanding this jargon is essential to appreciating the drama and activity to the fullest. Here's an overview of some of the most often-used terms in the Big Brother house as the program moves into its 26th season.

Since the Big Brother's 2000 premiere, the format has mostly not changed. One resident obtains authority each week and chooses two/three other residents to be evicted. Alliances are always changing, and competition is intense.

However, to succeed, players need to be able to negotiate the intricate vocabulary that has evolved in addition to mastering the game. Words like "showmance," "slop," and "blindside" are just a few examples of the extensive vocabulary used in Big Brother.


Big Brother's jargon: Showmance, Have-Not, and Slop

A love relationship between two houseguests that develops throughout the show is called a "showmance". Even while most partnerships end quickly, others have resulted in long-term commitments outside the home.

Dr. Will Kirby initially used the phrase to refer to his relationship with Shannon Dragoo in season 2. In season 26, Tucker and Rubina's relationship is often referred to as 'showmance'.

The unhappy houseguests of the Big Brother household, known as "Have-Nots" are those who lose a particular competition and must spend a week in uncomfortable living quarters. This involves eating only "slop," which is a tasteless concoction resembling oats.


The Block, Blindside and Backdoor

The term "the block" refers to the two houseguests nominated for eviction. These players sit in the eviction seats, with the potential of being sent home. While being on the block is never a nice thing, houseguests can occasionally save themselves through the Power of Veto (POV) competition.

A "blindside" occurs when a houseguest is abruptly nominated or ousted, typically by a close ally. This unexpected shift might cause stress and distrust within the household. The "backdoor" method entails nominating a strong opponent who was not initially in the running, making it difficult for them to save themselves.


Alliance, Floater, and Comp Beast

An "alliance" is a group of houseguests who collaborate to advance in the game. These coalitions can range in size and frequently have imaginative names. However, not all alliances persist, since people frequently switch loyalties based on changing dynamics in the house.

A "floater" is a houseguest who avoids making large movements or developing strong connections, in the hopes of remaining undetected and in the game. While this tactic may be beneficial, it runs the danger of being perceived as a weak player.

A "comp beast" is someone who excels at competitions and frequently wins many challenges. While this can provide security and power, it also renders them vulnerable.


Pawn, HOH, and POV

A "pawn" is a houseguest who is nominated for eviction but is not the main target. However, being a pawn is perilous since they can be evicted if the dynamics of the house alter.

The Head of Household (HOH) is the person who wins the weekly challenge and has the authority to nominate two houseguests. The HOH also gets some comforts, such as a private room and special benefits.

The Power of Veto (POV) is an important aspect of the game since it allows the winner to save one of the nominees from eviction. The HOH must then propose a replacement, which can cause dramatic changes in the game's power dynamics.


Zingbot, Diary Room, and Jury

Zingbot (image via CBS)
Zingbot (image via CBS)

"Zingbot" is a recurring figure who arrives on the show to mock the houseguests with humorous insults called "zings." The Diary Room is where houseguests can share their ideas and strategies with the audience, away from the prying eyes of their competition. It's also where they vote on eviction night.

The "jury" consists of the final few expelled houseguests, who will ultimately pick the season's winner. These jury members live in seclusion until the finale when they vote based on gaming and social interactions during the season.


Knowing the Big Brother terminology will improve one's viewing experience, regardless of whether you're cheering for a certain player or are just watching for the drama. Meanwhile, catch Big Brother season 26 on CBS.

Edited by Ameen Fatima
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications