The slang term "based" has a complex etymology, originating from the 1980s drug-related term "basehead," meaning a crack cocaine addict. Rapper Lil B reclaimed and redefined it in the 2000s to mean being true to yourself, unconcerned with others' opinions, and having swagger. The term has since spread widely, particularly online, and is now generally used to praise someone for being unapologetically authentic, even if controversial.
