blue balls

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A cramp-like ache in the testicles and prostate region caused by prolonged sexual arousal; testicles experiencing such an ache.

Register: slang

Where it’s used: Used American English
Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Unfulfilled sexual desire.

Register: slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Buboes (in a person of any sex) caused by a sexually transmitted infection; the infection that causes them.

Register: dated, slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “blue balls” mean?

A cramp-like ache in the testicles and prostate region caused by prolonged sexual arousal; testicles experiencing such an ache.

Is “blue balls” formal or informal?

blue balls is generally slang.