What Does Thumb In or Thumb Out Mean (With Examples)

Are you trying to understand the thumb in or thumb out meaning on the TikTok platform because you have seen it in a video or in its caption? It is a term that goes viral on TikTok through different dance short videos. This article will explain what thumb out or thumb in means along with its examples.

What Does Thumb In or Thumb Out Mean on TikTok

The terms “thumb in” and “thumb out” are often used in TikTok dance-related videos for pointing the position of the thumb whether it will be in or out while performing certain dance moves. It is believed that the thumb position looks stylish and matters when it comes to doing correct dance moves.

  • Thumb In: It means the dancer wraps fingers around the thumb of their partner while dancing. In short, the thumb is hidden in the palm of the hand and not visible at all.
  • Thumb out: It is a self-explanatory term that means that the dancer keeps the thumb out of the finger or palm of their partner to add extra flair to dance moves. 

Examples of Using Thumb In or Thumb Out in Texting 

Some real-life examples of using thumb in or thumb out while texting on TikTok are given below:

Example 1

Paxton: While you were doing the moonwalk with Kara, your thumb was in.

Genevieve: Seriously? I didn’t notice.

Example 2

Merrick: Do you know how to do swing dance?

Harlow: Yeah, I can teach you but keep your thumb out.

Example 3

Titus: Did you get my point about when your thumb should be in or out?

Millie: Yeah, it’s easy. I will do the same!

Example 4

Quentin: Let’s do a box step dance at today’s party.

Sabrina: Alright, let me rehearse about when to keep the thumb in and thumb out.

Thumb In Or Thumb Out Meaning Tiktok Example

Audio of Native Using Thumb Term in Real Life

What is the Thumb Thing on TikTok

When a hand of one is in the hand of another person and he or she is gently rubbing on the skin by using only a thumb, is known as a thumb thing. 

Heatmap Showing Global Popularity Of Thumb in Vs. Thumb Out Dance Trend By Country

This heatmap shows the top 3 countries in which this term is widely used are United States, Mexico, and Brazil. South Korea, India, and other countries are also highlighted in the below provided heatmap.

Global popularity of 'thumb in vs. thumb out' dance trend by country

Things You Should Know

Whenever interacting with the thumb in or thumb out thing on TikTok, it is recommended to check the context first. Sometimes the thumb in or thumb out is used in their literal meaning, such as Good (👍) or not good (👎). Moreover, as it is not a widely recognized term and not everyone is able to get it when used, so avoid using it excessively in your daily routine.

Contribute and Learn

What does Thumb In or Thumb Out mean to you?
I think its Explicit
Precision and control in dance moves
Just a TikTok trend, nothing more
No idea, but now I am curious
Created with Super Survey
  • Slangsense.com

    I break down the ever-evolving world of slang, decoding cultural phrases, and trends before they go mainstream. With expertise in linguistics and digital communication, I help people and brands stay ahead of modern language shifts. You can learn more about me here.

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