Mid is the dismissive verdict for something that's merely average—not bad enough to criticize extensively, but not good enough to praise. Calling something 'mid' is almost worse than calling it bad; at least bad provokes reaction. Mid suggests the item is forgettable, uninspired, meeting minimum expectations without exceeding them. The term gained widespread usage in the 2020s as a quick way to deflate hype: a hyped release that underwhelms is 'mid.' The assessment is subjective but carries weight when consensus forms—a brand releasing too much mid risks reputation damage. Mid functions as anti-hype, countering the tendency to call everything fire. The term has expanded beyond streetwear into general internet discourse, but within the culture it specifically addresses the gap between expectation and delivery. Understanding what's mid versus what's heat demonstrates developed taste.