The term “body count,” in its slang usage, refers to the number of sexual partners a person has had. This phrase often carries a judgmental weight, particularly towards women, implying that a higher number of partners is viewed negatively for them, while sometimes being seen as a positive attribute for men.
When it comes to sex, many people are quite open about their body count. Others, however, like to keep their intimacy tight-lipped. —Christine Younan, The Daily Star [UK], April 22, 2023
My sister just asked my mom her body count … Thanksgiving is insane —@24kGoldn, X (formerly Twitter), November 23, 2023
I had this conversation with a man. his body count was 17 and told me he wouldn’t date a girl who’s count was over 4. —miaunknown__, X (formerly Twitter), January 23, 2025
The Origin of “Body Count”
The phrase “body count” originally and less controversially refers to the number of fatalities, typically in military conflicts or battles. This literal sense evolved to describe the number of people involved in any specific activity. The slang meaning related to sexual partners is a more explicit and provocative application of this broader definition, although it’s not a recent development.
In “Seeing Other People,” Alice (Julianne Nicholson) and Ed (Jay Mohr), an attractive, comfortably monogamous couple about to be married, decide to try belonging to everyone as a premarital treat before they settle down. Alice, all fired up after spying on a couple enjoying furtive, quickie sex at her engagement party, persuades her reluctant fiance that having more notches in their respective belts will fortify their union. Her body count of three lovers simply isn’t enough, she insists. —Stephen Holden, The New York Times, May 7, 2004
The rise in popularity of “body count” in its sexual context may be linked to its frequent use within the manosphere. This collective term describes male-centric online spaces, communities, and digital media that often promote anti-feminist views, sometimes associated with misogyny and far-right ideologies. Within these circles, women perceived to have a high body count are often severely criticized and devalued.
How “Body Count” is Used and the Judgment Attached
While “body count” as a noun can be employed neutrally to simply state a number, it frequently comes with judgment, reflecting personal biases, double standards, or levels of conservatism. As highlighted by a Reddit user:
Usually “body count” is used as a reason to devalue women based solely on their dating history. —@Peebles8, Reddit, May 15, 2023
Discussions around “body count” commonly surface when people discuss their preferences in partners, and their attitudes towards sex and the perceived importance—or lack thereof—of a person’s sexual past.
Once a man’s body count hits double digits, he becomes so unattractive to me —@roverette, X (formerly Twitter), January 24, 2025
In conclusion, “body count” is a slang term that denotes the number of sexual partners someone has had, often laden with societal judgments, particularly directed at women. Understanding its origins and usage is crucial in navigating contemporary discussions around sex, dating, and relationships.
