nerf
Pronunciation
/nɝf/

Definition & Meaning of "nerf"in English

Nerf
01

the act of reducing the power or effectiveness of a weapon, ability, or strategy in order to balance or improve gameplay

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
nerfs

What is a "nerf"?

A nerf refers to a change in a video game that reduces the strength or effectiveness of a character, weapon, ability, or feature. This adjustment is typically made to improve the balance of the game, especially when certain elements are considered too powerful and disrupt fair gameplay. For instance, if a weapon is too strong and makes the game unfair, it might receive a nerf to make it less effective. While nerfs are meant to create a more balanced experience, they can frustrate players who preferred the stronger version of the element.

Examples
The latest update includes a nerf to the sniper rifle, making it less powerful.
to nerf
01

to weaken a game mechanic, ability, or character to reduce its effectiveness

Slang
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
Action verb
Regular
Present tense
nerf
3rd person singular
nerfs
Present participle
nerfing
Past simple
nerfed
Past participle
nerfed
Examples
The devs nerfed that weapon in the last patch.
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