Posted on November 16, 2025 | 9 min read

Taking the Rice Purity Test and stumbled upon terms you don't recognize? You're not alone! The test contains several slang terms and euphemisms that can be confusing, especially if you're new to the test or unfamiliar with certain cultural references.

Don't worry—we're here to decode all the confusing terminology you'll encounter on the Rice Purity Test. This comprehensive guide will explain what each term means so you can answer the questions accurately and understand what you're being asked.

Why Does the Rice Purity Test Use Slang?

Before we dive into definitions, it's helpful to understand why the test uses slang and euphemisms in the first place:

  • Historical Context: The test was created decades ago using the slang of that era
  • Campus Culture: It originated on a college campus where certain terms were common
  • Discretion: Some euphemisms make mature topics less explicit
  • Universal Understanding: Slang can sometimes transcend language barriers

Common Terms Explained A-Z

What Is "Streaking" on the Rice Purity Test?

Streaking is one of the most commonly misunderstood terms on the test. Here's what it means:

Streaking Definition: Running naked through a public place, usually as a prank, dare, or form of protest. This became particularly popular on college campuses in the 1970s.

When the Rice Purity Test asks about streaking, it's referring to:

  • Running nude through campus
  • Participating in organized streaking events
  • Generally being naked in public places (not including designated nude areas like beaches)

Note: Streaking is different from simply being naked outdoors. It specifically involves running or moving through public spaces while nude, often as a spontaneous or rebellious act.

What Does "MPS" Mean on the Rice Purity Test?

MPS is an acronym that frequently confuses test-takers. Here's what it stands for:

MPS Definition: "Member of the Preferred Sex" or "Member of the Preferred Sexual Orientation." This is a gender-neutral term used to refer to someone you're attracted to romantically or sexually.

The term "MPS" is used throughout the test to make questions applicable to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. Examples:

  • "Held hands romantically with an MPS" = held hands with someone you're attracted to
  • "Kissed an MPS" = kissed someone you're romantically/sexually interested in
  • "Been on a date with an MPS" = been on a date with someone in your preferred gender/orientation

Why "MPS" instead of specific genders? The term makes the test inclusive for people of all sexual orientations. Whether you're straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, or any other orientation, "MPS" refers to whoever you're personally attracted to.

What Is "Puff" on the Rice Purity Test?

Puff is slang that appears in questions about substance use:

Puff Definition: To smoke or inhale from a cigarette, cigar, marijuana joint, vape, or other smoking device. "Taking a puff" means inhaling once from something that's being smoked.

Questions about "puff" typically refer to:

  • Smoking tobacco products
  • Smoking marijuana
  • Using vaping devices
  • Any instance where you've inhaled from a smoking device

Context matters: If the test asks about taking "a puff of marijuana," it's asking if you've ever tried smoking marijuana, even if it was just once.

What Is the "Mile High Club"?

This is another term that often requires explanation:

Mile High Club Definition: A colloquial term for people who have engaged in sexual activity while aboard an aircraft in flight (hence being a "mile high" in the air).

This refers specifically to:

  • Sexual activity on a commercial airplane
  • Sexual activity on a private plane
  • Any intimate activity while the aircraft is in flight

What Are "Unspeakable Acts"?

Perhaps the most mysterious term on the entire test:

Unspeakable Acts Definition: This is intentionally vague and open to interpretation. It generally refers to sexual or illegal activities that are considered taboo, extreme, or beyond typical social norms.

The ambiguity is intentional—the test lets you define what qualifies as "unspeakable" based on your own moral compass and experiences. This could include:

  • Activities you personally consider too taboo to discuss
  • Extreme sexual practices
  • Illegal activities
  • Things you'd be embarrassed to admit publicly

Because this term is so subjective, different people interpret it differently. There's no official definition, and that's by design.

What Does "Been in a Relationship" Mean?

While this might seem obvious, there's often confusion about what counts:

Relationship Definition: A committed romantic partnership where both people have agreed they're together. This typically involves exclusivity and emotional commitment.

What usually counts:

  • Dating exclusively with mutual agreement
  • Using labels like "boyfriend," "girlfriend," or "partner"
  • A sustained romantic connection over time

What typically doesn't count:

  • Casual dating multiple people
  • A crush where feelings aren't mutual
  • Very brief flings (though this is subjective)

What Is "Fondling"?

This old-fashioned term appears on the test:

Fondling Definition: Touching someone in a romantic or sexual way, typically referring to touching intimate body parts either over or under clothing.

What Does "Necking" Mean?

Another dated term you'll encounter:

Necking Definition: An old-fashioned term for kissing and caressing, typically focusing on the neck area. It's essentially passionate making out that includes kissing the neck.

What Is "Heavy Petting"?

This euphemistic term refers to:

Heavy Petting Definition: Intimate physical contact that stops short of sexual intercourse. This includes touching intimate body parts, usually with sexual intent, but without progressing to sex.

What Does "In the Buff" Mean?

A phrase that might appear in various questions:

In the Buff Definition: Being completely naked, without any clothes on. "Buff" is slang for bare skin.

What Is "Sexting"?

A more modern term that's been added to updated versions:

Sexting Definition: Sending sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos via text message, social media, or other digital platforms.

Understanding Substance-Related Terms

Common Substance Slang on the Test

  • "Illegal substances" or "drugs": Controlled substances that are prohibited by law, including marijuana in states where it's illegal
  • "Hard drugs": Typically refers to highly addictive substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, etc.
  • "Under the influence": Being intoxicated or impaired by alcohol or drugs
  • "Recreational drugs": Non-prescription drugs used for pleasure rather than medical purposes

Legal and Criminal Terms

Understanding Legal Questions

The test includes several questions about legal issues:

  • "Been arrested": Taken into custody by police, even if charges were later dropped
  • "Been convicted": Found guilty of a crime in court
  • "Trespassing": Entering property without permission or staying after being asked to leave
  • "Vandalism": Deliberately damaging or destroying property

Sexual Activity Terms

The test uses various terms and euphemisms for sexual activities. While we won't go into explicit detail, here's what to understand:

  • Most questions are self-explanatory once you're familiar with basic terminology
  • If you don't understand a term, it probably means you haven't experienced it
  • The test progresses from innocent to more mature activities
  • When in doubt, you can search the term privately to learn what it means

Tips for Understanding Unclear Terms

If you encounter a term you don't understand while taking the test:

  1. Context Clues: Look at where the question appears in the test—early questions are more innocent, later ones are more mature
  2. When in Doubt, Leave It: If you don't know what it means, you probably haven't done it, so leave it unchecked
  3. Look It Up: It's okay to search for terms you don't understand in a private browser
  4. Ask (Carefully): You can ask friends, but be aware some terms are explicit
  5. Use Your Judgment: Some terms are intentionally vague, so interpret them based on your understanding

Why Some Terms Are Dated

You might notice that some terminology on the Rice Purity Test feels old-fashioned. This is because:

  • The test was created in the 1920s-1930s at Rice University
  • Many versions still use the original language
  • The dated terms have become part of the test's charm and tradition
  • Updated versions exist but aren't as widely used

Modern vs. Original Terminology

Some websites offer "updated" versions of the test with modern language, while others preserve the original wording. Both are valid—it's just a matter of preference.

Final Tips for Taking the Test

  • Be honest: The test only works if you answer truthfully
  • Don't overthink: If you're unsure, use your first instinct
  • It's okay not to know: Unfamiliarity with terms often means you haven't experienced those things
  • Privacy matters: Take the test in private if you need to look up terms
  • No judgment: Remember, this is just for fun and self-reflection

Ready to Take the Test?

Now that you understand the terminology, you're ready to take the Rice Purity Test with confidence!

Take the Rice Purity Test