Side-eye communicates doubt without needing a full argument. It can describe a literal sideways glance or a reaction written in a message. The point is that the person is unconvinced, unimpressed, or quietly questioning what just happened.
In a sentence
“He said he did not practice, then won three rounds. Side-eye.”
In other words: I am suspicious of his claim that he did not practice.
Original example written for the JANK guide.How to use side-eye
Side-eye does not always mean someone is angry. It can be a small joke, a skeptical reaction, or disapproval. Text and emoji versions describe the same kind of response even when nobody is physically looking sideways at anyone.
About this definition
Reference: JANK in-game glossary. Meaning checked October 16, 2026.
Usage varies by community and context. Examples illustrate the meaning and are not quotations from the reference.