Huh? What Does 'IB' Mean on Social Media?
Social media has brought legions of new words and phrases into our everyday vernacular. Whether they originate online or via text messages, social platforms give life to these sayings. Phrases like “YKWIS,” “IJBOL” and “TTYL,” and using an emoji to express how you feel are accepted and catapulted by apps like TikTok and Instagram. Others include “IYKYK” (if you know you know), “YOLO” (you only live once), “FRFR” (for real for real) and "IB." But what, exactly, is IB's meaning?
As much as these abbreviations, emojis and phrases are convenient and fun, they can also be confusing. And when you’re just looking for a mindless escape by scrolling online to see what your friends are up to, the last thing you want to be is confused. Fortunately, we’re here to help you.
IB is a widely used abbreviation that says a lot with just two letters. We’ll talk about what it means on social media, how you can use it, and talk about another arena where IB is a big deal.
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What Does IB Mean on TikTok?
When you see a person use IB on TikTok, they are letting you know that their video is "inspired by" someone else. Creators will note IB in their initial comments, or in their video captions. The TikTok user is giving credit to the channel or poster that inspired their post.
How To Use IB on Social Media
People use IB in a variety of ways on social media platforms.
In a caption beside what you made for dinner, you could write: “IB: my mom’s favorite childhood dish that she makes all the time.”
Or in the comments of your recent video showcasing moves to the latest viral dance craze, you could write: “IB @(name of poster who inspired you).” Because people recognize what IB means, they’ll quickly know what you’re trying to communicate.
Related: What Does 'S/U' Mean on Social Media, Exactly?
Similar Ways To Say IB Online
If you’re not sure IB is enough to get the point across, or maybe you just want to be an original and not say it like everyone else, there are other ways you can say “inspired by” online:
“Give credit to”
“Due credit to”
“Originated by”
“Got the idea from”
“This came from”
“Saw this at”
“OG post”
“Copied from”
Related: What Does 'BSF' Actually Mean on Social Media?
What Does IB Mean in Education?
The use of IB extends beyond social media. In fact, it’s been used in the education field for years—although with a much different meaning. It stands for "International Baccalaureate."
IB is a rigorous program designed to prepare high school students for a college education. An IB curriculum provides courses that encourage critical thinking and help students hone their research skills.
Like many words and phrases, IB can take on different meanings in different contexts. Knowing what you want to say when you’re using it—and what it means in that setting—is a good place to start.
