Gen Z slang explained
21.01.2025
Gen Z slang can be defined as a shorthand form of communication that summarizes the thoughts, feelings and experiences of the youngest generation. Unlike previous generations, who often relied on a more formal way of communicating, Gen Z communicates with brevity and creativity. This unique vernacular thrives on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, where the ability to convey emotions and ideas within seconds is paramount.
These platforms serve as incubators for new jargon, allowing terms to spread like wildfire through memes, viral trends and pop culture references. For example, a trending TikTok dance can quickly lead to a slang term summarizing that experience. Gen Z’s language is dynamic and is often based on their collective experiences and digital interactions, creating a unique lingo that can seem like a secret code to outsiders. The influence of global events, music and celebrity culture also plays an important role in shaping this evolving language.
To find a way into the world of Gen Z slang, we explore some of the most popular terms, each of which has cultural significance and emotional depth.
Gen Z slang glossary
Bet
Verb
Definition: An expression of agreement or acceptance; similar to saying “okay.” Example: “Do you want to go to the movies? Bet!”
Big yikes
Phrase
Definition: A term used to express embarrassment or cringeworthy moments.
Example: “Falling for the whole class? Big yikes.”
Boujee
Adjective
Definition: Luxurious, chic, or high-class, usually in a showy or ostentatious way.
Example: “She does very boujee with her designer bag.”
Banger
Noun
Definition: A great song, video or piece of content; something that is very enjoyable.
Example: “That new song is a total banger!”
Bruh
Noun/exclamation
Definition: An informal term used to express disbelief, frustration or annoyance. It is also used as a generic term for “bro” or “dude” in a relaxed manner.
Example: “Bruh, did that really happen?”
Bussin
Adjective
Definition: Used to describe something exceptionally good or delicious, often food.
Example: “This pizza is bussin’!”
Cancelled
Adjective
Definition: Referring to a person or thing that has lost its popularity or support due to controversy or problematic behavior.
Example: “All the biggest YouTubers and streamers are cancelled because they are problematic.”
Caught in 4K
Phrase
Definition: Being caught in the act, usually with irrefutable evidence, as if recorded in high resolution.
Example: “He said he didn’t do it, but we caught him in 4K.”
Clout
Noun
Definition: Influence or power, especially in the context of social media; often associated with fame or popularity.
Example: “She’s just doing it for the clout.”
Cringe
Noun/adjective
Definition: Something uncomfortable, embarrassing, or something that tries too hard to be cool, often embarrassing you in the second instance.
Example: “That TikTok dance was so cringe.”
Delulu
Adjective
Definition: Abbreviation of “delusional,” often used playfully to describe someone who has unrealistic or far-fetched expectations or beliefs, especially in fandoms or relationships.
Example: “You have to be a little delulu to get where you want to be in life.”
Drip
Noun
Definition: A fashionable and stylish appearance or outfit; often refers to a person’s overall style.
Example: “His outfit has so much drip!”
Flex
Verb
Definition: To show off or boast about something, often related to material possessions or accomplishments.
Example: “Weird flex but okay…”
Ghosting
Verb
Definition: The sudden severing of all communication with someone without explanation, often in dating scenarios.
Example: “I thought it clicked, but then he stood me up.”
Glow up
Noun
Definition: A significant improvement in a person’s appearance, self-confidence or general appearance.
Example: “He had a great glow up during the summer.”
GOAT
Noun
Definition: Acronym for “Greatest Of All Time”; used to refer to someone who is the best in his field.
Example: Faker is the GOAT of League of Legends.”
Hits different
Phrase
Definition: When something evokes a stronger or more emotional response than expected.
Example: “When you listen to that song at night, it just hits different.”
IYKYK
Abbreviation
Definition: Stands for “If You Know, You Know,” often used when talking about something that only a specific group understands.
Example: “That new game was great, IYKYK.”
Karen
Noun
Definition: A pejorative term for a privileged woman, often middle-aged, who is seen as demanding beyond what is reasonable.
Example: “That customer was such a Karen today.”
Lit
Adjective
Definition: Describing something exciting, fun, or cool.
Example: “The party last night was lit!” Nowadays, people say “Fire” instead of “lit.”
Main character energy
Noun
Definition: Acting with confidence or as if you are the star of your own story; taking charge of your life in a bold way.
Example: “She walked into the room with main character energy.”
Mood
Noun
Definition: Used to express relatability or agreement with a particular emotion or situation.
Example: “That cat meme is such a mood.”
No cap
Sentence
Definition: Means “no lie” or “real,” used to emphasize honesty or sincerity.
Example: “That concert was great, no cap.”
Ong
Abbreviation
Definition: Abbreviation of “On God,” meaning serious or truthful.
Example: “That test was hard, ong.”
Periodt
Phrase
Definition: An emphatic way of ending a statement, to indicate that no more discussion is possible, “that was it.”
Example: “I’m not going to that party, periodt.”
Rizz
Noun/verb
Definition: Abbreviation of “charisma” or “game,” referring to one’s ability to impress others or attract others, often in a romantic context.
Example: “He has a lot of rizz, everyone likes him. They call him the rizzler.
Shook
Adjective
Definition: To feel surprised or shocked by something, often in an overwhelming way.
Example: “I was so shook when I saw that plot twist.”
Simp
Noun
Definition: A person who puts a lot of effort into someone he or she likes, often in a self-deprecating way.
Example: “He’s such a simp to her; he buys her presents all the time.”
Slay
Verb
Definition: To do something exceptionally well or look great. Often used to empower or compliment someone.
Example: “You look slay in that outfit!”
Slaps
Verb
Definition: Refers to something that is exceptionally good, usually music or food.
Example: “That new album slaps!”
Snatched
Adjective
Definition: Used to describe someone who looks great or is well put together, often in terms of style or appearance.
Example: “Her makeup is snatched today!”.
Stan
Verb/noun
Definition: To be an extremely devoted fan of a particular celebrity, character, show or idea; derived from the song “Stan” by Eminem.
Example: “I stan her music so much!”
Sus
Adjective
Definition: Abbreviation of “suspicious”; used to describe something or someone who seems shady or untrustworthy.
Example: “Why was he acting so sus last night?”
Tea
Noun
Definition: gossip or interesting news; often used when asking for the latest information.
Example: “What’s the tea about their divorce?”
TFW
Abbreviation
Definition: Stands for “That Feeling When,” used to introduce a recognizable moment or emotion.
Example: “TFW you finally finished a big project.”
Thirsty
Adjective
Definition: Desperate for attention or affirmation, often used in a romantic context.
Example: “He’s really thirsty with all these comments.”
Touch grass
Phrase
Definition: A suggestion to get off the Internet and spend time outside or in reality.
Example: “You played video games for 10 hours. Time to touch grass.”
Vibe
Noun/Verb
Definition: The mood, atmosphere or energy a person exudes. It can also mean relaxing or going with the flow.
Example: “The party had such a chill vibe,” or “Bro is vibing tho (short for ‘thought’).
Vibe Check
Noun
Definition: To assess the mood or energy of a person or situation.
Example: “That party passed the vibe check.”
Woke
Adjective
Definition: To be aware of social injustices and problems; often used to describe someone who is socially aware.
Example: “He is really woke when it comes to environmental issues.”
Yeet
Verb Exclamation
Definition: Originally used to express excitement or to throw something with force.
Example: “He yeet the table when he ranted!”
As Gen Z becomes an increasingly influential group of consumers, brands are seeing the importance of connecting with them in their lifestyles. Companies such as Ryanair and Bol.com have successfully incorporated slang into their marketing campaigns, showing that they understand youth culture.
However, the risks of inauthentic use of slang can be damaging; consumers quickly catch on when it is disingenuous. Brands that make a misstep can come across as trying too hard or, worse, being patronizing. This can alienate the audience they want to appeal to. Authenticity and relevance are paramount, brands must immerse themselves in the culture and language of Gen Z to communicate effectively.
To stay abreast of Gen Z’s jargon, consider using social media platforms, online dictionaries (Urban Dictionary is the best!) and trend monitoring tools. Tools such as TikTok trends and Instagram reels offer a real-time look at evolving language and cultural nuances. Understanding Gen Z language is essential in today’s world, where communication transcends generations. Embracing this changing language landscape promotes connection, both for personal use and business communication.
Sources:
Pew Research Center: The Future of Work
