nerf
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To change a mechanic, an ability, or a character in a video game in order to make less efficacious.
Register: slang
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The lightning spell was originally pretty powerful, but in the sequel they nerfed it so it became completely useless.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To arbitrarily limit or reduce the capability of.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “nerf” mean?
To change a mechanic, an ability, or a character in a video game in order to make less efficacious.
Is “nerf” formal or informal?
nerf is generally slang.