べたべた
beta-beta EverydaySocial Casual
Sticky, sweaty, or over-affectionate
What does べたべた mean?
Describes a sticky surface, the feeling of sweat on skin, or people being physically clingy or 'lovey-dovey'.
The Image: The sound of a flat surface pulling away from something sticky. It implies a lack of air between two surfaces.
When to use it
- Hands after eating candy
- Skin in high humidity
- A couple acting very affectionate in public
Translation Warning
Can be negative (sweat) or neutral/teasing (affection). Context is critical.
Avoid using when:
- For stringy stickiness (use 'neba-neba')
- For a smooth dry surface
Example Sentences
手がガムでベたべたする。
My hands are sticky from the gum.
Texture湿気が多くて肌がベたべたする。
It's so humid that my skin feels sweaty and sticky.
Weatherあのカップルはいつもベたべたしている。
That couple is always acting all lovey-dovey (clingy).
Social