Generation Z, also known as Gen Z, comprises individuals born between the late 1990s and early 2010s. This generation has developed its own unique slang and lingo, which often sounds like an entirely different language. To avoid feeling left out and experiencing FOMO (fear of missing out), it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with their language.
A significant portion of Gen Z slang wasn’t actually created by the generation itself but rather adopted from specific communities. Many of these terms originated from African American conversational English and slang, which has raised concerns of “cultural appropriation”.
What sets Gen Z slang apart from previous generations’ slang is that Gen Z is the first generation to grow up entirely within the Internet age. As a result, a significant portion of their slang originates from online platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Twitch.
Here are some notable Gen Z slangs
1. Fam: Fam is a shortened version of “family,” but it’s not limited to relatives. It can refer to close friends, similar to how Millennials use “bro”.
2. Glow up: This term describes a positive transformation or makeover from a less desirable state to an improved one.
3. CEO: If someone is referred to as the CEO of something, it means they have mastered it or are an expert in that area.
4. Cancel Culture: Cancel culture involves publicly shaming a public figure, company, or organization for their actions or opinions.
5. Stan: Contrary to the name Stanley, “stan” is a blend of “stalker” and “fan.” If you stan someone, it means you are extremely obsessed with them, but not in a creepy way.
6. E-boy or E-girl: These terms describe individuals who express themselves online, often using internet aesthetics similar to emo or goth cultures.
7. W: Although it appears to be just a letter, to Gen Zers, “W” represents a win or victory.
8. Moist: If something is described as moist, it means it is excellent or of very high quality.
9. Ghosting: Ghosting is a term commonly used during the early stages of a relationship. It refers to the act of suddenly ignoring or ending communication with someone.
10. Salty: Gen Z uses this term to express jealousy or bitterness.
11. Big Yikes: This slang is quite self-explanatory. It is used to convey a high level of embarrassment or discomfort that surpasses a simple “yikes”.
12. Boujee: If something or someone is referred to as boujee, it means they are extravagant or fancy.
13. Finna: Finna is a shortened form of “I’m going to.” It indicates an intention or an upcoming action.
14. Cap: Although relatively older, the term “cap” still holds relevance. It means to lie. When someone says “no cap,” they are expressing authenticity or truthfulness.
15. High-key: High-key is the opposite of being low-key. It refers to something that is openly or prominently expressed or visible.
With new slang emerging almost constantly, it can be challenging to keep up with the day-to-day jargon of Gen Z. However, there’s still time to avoid becoming outdated and uncool. Our list of 50 Gen Z slang words can help you understand their language and prevent you from feeling confused when a Gen Z-er speaks.
Language is ever-evolving, and slang tends to change even faster than other forms of communication. Each
generation brings forth its unique set of slang words that emerge at a rapid-fire pace, often faster than people can grasp. The prevalence of platforms like TikTok and social media trends has only accelerated the adoption of new slang terms. However, if you fail to keep up with these trends, you might find yourself perplexed.
It is important to acknowledge that many of these seemingly new slang terms in the mainstream culture have origins deeply rooted in Black culture, the LGBTQ+ community, the drag community, and other marginalized groups and subcultures. From there, these terms gain creative appeal and usefulness, leading to their adoption by youth culture at large, including individuals outside the communities where the terms originated. This adoption often involves appropriation, disregarding or erasing the terms’ origins and their originators.
To stay updated on the latest “cool” words and avoid being considered “cheugy,” here are the meanings and likely origins of essential Gen Z slang words—at least for now.
1. No cap: The terms cap and no cap have been used on social media, but they actually predate social media and Gen Z by several decades. In Black slang, capping means bragging, exaggerating, or lying. The phrase “no cap” has evolved to mean “no lie” or “for real.” While popular among Gen Z, no cap draws its influence primarily from hip-hop culture.
2. Cheugy : Are you cool or cheugy? This term, used to describe uncool things that are either out of style or trying too hard to be in style, was coined around 2013. Gaby Rasson from California started using cheugy to describe people unsuccessfully attempting to be trendy. The term gained widespread attention through a viral TikTok video in 2021, with the hashtag #cheugy accumulating over 10 million views by May 2021. It’s worth noting that slang changes rapidly, and some may already consider cheugy itself to be cheugy.
3. Drip: In previous generations, “drip” referred to an unattractive or boring person. However, if someone mentions your “drip” now, it’s a compliment. Drip now refers to your overall look or style, particularly when it’s considered fashionable or sexy.
In conclusion, Gen Z slang is a constantly evolving language that can be challenging to keep up with. However, with some effort and research, anyone can learn the latest slang and stay up-to-date with the ever-changing trends.
