What Peacocking Means & How Women Do It

Download Article

The secret behind how females attract someone they like

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano Reviewed by John Keegan

Last Updated: July 1, 2024 Fact Checked

Download Article

What is peacocking?

|

Is it different in men and women?

|

Examples of Peacocking in Women

|

Is peacocking bad?

Peacocking. You may have heard this slang term floating around TikTok or perhaps while chatting with friends. But what does it mean exactly? Peacocking describes the act of putting extra effort into your looks in order to attract someone. Keep on reading to learn what peacocking is all about and how women display this behavior.

Peacocking Meaning

Peacocking is when someone shows off to get the attention of an attractive person. When a woman peacocks, she’ll likely put extra effort into her appearance and play up her talents or accomplishments.

Section 1 of 4:

What is peacocking?

Download Article

Peacocking is when someone shows off in order to impress someone. When people peacock, they purposely make themselves appear more desirable or attractive. They may put extra effort into their appearance by dressing up or they may show off their talents or accomplishments. This flirtatious behavior is most common in men trying to attract women, but women can display it, as well.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Someone may peacock to get someone else’s number, land a date, find a partner, or even score a one-night stand.
- The term “peacocking” comes from the mating behavior of male peacocks spreading their feathers to attract a female peacock.^{[2]
  X
  Research source}

Section 2 of 4:

Is peacocking different in men and women?

Download Article

Peacocking may be slightly different in men and women. While the act of peacocking for men and women ultimately has the same goal (to attract or impress someone), how a man or woman gets to that goal may differ. In men, peacocking may be more obvious.^{[3]
X
Research source} In women, it tends to be more subdued and subtle.
- For instance, a man might peacock at the gym by taking off his shirt and flexing in the mirror. On the other hand, a woman may peacock at the gym by giggling with a friend while pointing at someone cute or giving someone she finds attractive a compliment.

Section 3 of 4:

Examples of Peacocking in Women

Download Article

A woman who puts extra effort into her appearance may be trying to impress others. She might wear bright, flashy, or revealing clothing or take extra time with her hair or makeup as a way to get attention.^{[4]
X
Research source}
If a woman wants to get someone's attention, she may try to impress them by playing up her special skills and talents. She might show her skills at the pool table or a round of darts if you meet her in a bar, for instance. Or, she might dance the night away at a club.
If you’re having a conversation with her, she might subtly throw out a wild achievement she’s accomplished. She likely won’t make a big deal of it, and this is purposeful. She’s proud of herself, but she wants to see if you pick up on it and give her praise.^{[5]
X
Research source}
If a woman is seeking some extra attention, she may post a sexy photo or video online to draw people in and appear desirable.^{[6]
X
Research source} Maybe she posts a picture of her flexing in the gym or films a playful, viral dance wearing a scandalous outfit.
A peacocking woman will make her presence known. She’ll hold her head high, stand up tall, make eye contact, and waltz into the room like she owns the place.^{[7]
X
Research source}
A common sign of flirtation in women is twirling or playing with their hair. If a woman is trying to get your attention, she may toss her hair over her shoulder or twist it around her finger while talking.^{[8]
X
Research source}
If a woman is peacocking, she’ll likely laugh at the jokes made by a person she finds attractive, even if they're not very funny. This may be her way of flirting or complimenting someone.^{[9]
X
Research source}
A brush of hands or shoulders could be a sign she’s trying to get your attention. Maybe she “accidentally” reaches for the same glass as you or lays a gentle hand on your arm while talking. These brief moments of touch could be a sign she’s into you.^{[10]
X
Research source}

Section 4 of 4:

Is peacocking bad?

Download Article

Peacocking isn’t inherently bad. Peacocking is a social behavior for both people and animals. However, some people view it as obnoxious or vain, and doing too much of it could be abrasive or arrogant, especially if two people try to out-peacock the other. This can lead to competition and, in turn, arguments and disagreements.
- At the end of the day, there’s nothing wrong with peacocking as long as you stay true to yourself, avoid being arrogant, and respect people’s boundaries.
- Some people think peacocking or showing off is distracting or annoying—just keep in mind that this is a matter of personal opinion.