What BBW means
BBW stands for "big beautiful woman". It describes a plus-size or fuller-figured woman, and is used as a positive, body-confident term.
You will see it on dating apps, in personal ads, on escort and companion profiles, and in adult entertainment, where it is a popular category.
Many plus-size women use it proudly about themselves. As with any label, it is best used by the person it describes, or in a clearly respectful way.
Where it came from
The term was popularised in the US in 1979 by Carole Shaw, who launched a fashion magazine called BBW: Big Beautiful Woman for plus-size women.
It grew out of the size-acceptance movement, which challenged the idea that only slim bodies are attractive.
From there it spread into dating, with clubs, events and later websites dedicated to plus-size women and the people attracted to them.
Related terms
BHM means "big handsome man", the male equivalent. SSBBW means "super-sized BBW", for larger women. Curvy and voluptuous are common alternatives.
An FA, or "fat admirer", is someone who is particularly attracted to larger partners. Chubby chaser is an older, often less respectful term.
You will find more dating abbreviations in our guide to DTF, NSA, ONS and more.
Dating respectfully
If you are attracted to plus-size women, treat her as a whole person, not a fetish. Compliments about her as a person go further than comments about her body.
If you are a BBW dating online, choose platforms and events where you feel welcome, and block anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
Whatever someone's size, consent and respect are the same; see our guide to consent and boundaries.
Your questions, answered
What does BBW stand for?
"Big beautiful woman": a plus-size or fuller-figured woman.
Is BBW offensive?
It is meant positively and many women use it proudly, but use it respectfully.
What is the male version of BBW?
BHM: "big handsome man".
