Tanguy, originally derived from the French name "Tanguy" and subsequently popularized as a colloquial term, is a noun that refers to an individual, usually a young adult, who continues to live with their parents despite being of an age where independence is expected or socially deemed appropriate. The term can be used casually or pejoratively, and is typically employed to describe someone who exhibits behaviors or traits associated with prolonged dependence on their parents or family.
The characteristic features attributed to a tanguy often include a lack of motivation or interest in pursuing personal ambitions, being financially reliant on parents, and a reluctance or inability to engage in activities that promote independence, such as finding employment, moving out of the parental home, or making important life decisions. The term encompasses a range of circumstances, from individuals temporarily residing with parents to save money or while pursuing higher education, to those who display a prolonged pattern of financial and emotional dependency.
The concept of a tanguy emerged from societal expectations of personal autonomy and self-sufficiency typically associated with adulthood. While the term is predominantly used in a Western context, it may resonate with various cultures and bear different names. Tanguy is often employed in informal conversations, cultural discussions, or humorous contexts where the speaker wishes to convey a mix of irony and critique regarding someone's extended reliance on parental support.
