Language evolves constantly, but slang—especially among younger generations—changes even faster. Thanks to social media platforms like TikTok, new slang terms gain popularity in the blink of an eye. However, many of these words and phrases are deeply rooted in specific subcultures, including Black culture, the LGBTQ+ community, and the drag scene. While Gen Z adopts these terms and often pushes them into the mainstream, it’s essential to recognize their origins and evolution.
At the same time, not all slang terms are well-received, particularly by older generations who find them confusing or unnecessary. Let’s explore some of the most popular Gen Z slang terms, their origins, and the words people love to hate.
1. No Cap
This phrase, meaning “no lie” or “for real,” originates from Black slang, where “to cap” means to brag or exaggerate. The term has been used in hip-hop culture for decades and gained wider popularity through social media.
2. Cheugy
Coined in 2013 by Californian Gaby Rasson, “cheugy” describes something uncool or outdated. It became widely known after a viral TikTok video in 2021. Ironically, many now consider the word itself to be cheugy.
3. Drip
Once a term for someone dull or uninteresting, “drip” now refers to a stylish or fashionable look. Its origins are debated, with some attributing it to early 2000s Atlanta hip-hop and others linking it to the teen show Zoey 101.
4. Hits Different
Used to describe something that has a strong emotional impact, this phrase likely originated in the LGBTQ+ community and gained traction through YouTubers and social media influencers.
5. Main Character
First popularized through TikTok, this phrase refers to someone who sees themselves as the protagonist of their own story. It can also describe someone who becomes the focus of viral attention online.
6. Snatched
Originally from the Black drag community, “snatched” means looking amazing, especially in terms of hair, makeup, or outfits. It was popularized by RuPaul’s Drag Race.
7. Bet
Used to express agreement or approval, “bet” has roots in 1990s Black slang but has resurfaced with Gen Z’s love for retro trends.
8. Skrrt
An onomatopoeia mimicking the sound of screeching tires, “skrrt” is often used in response to shocking or exciting news. It’s closely associated with trap music and hip-hop.
9. Understood the Assignment
A way to praise someone for excelling at something, this phrase gained popularity on Twitter in reference to actors who nailed their roles.
10. OK Boomer
This phrase became a viral clapback in 2019, used to dismiss out-of-touch opinions, particularly those from older generations.
11. Say Less
Meaning “I understand” or “I’ve got it,” this term has been around since at least 2011 but gained widespread use after a 2021 Saturday Night Live skit.
12. Slaps
Originally used to describe excellent music, “slaps” has expanded to mean anything outstanding. It has roots in Bay Area hip-hop slang.
13. Low-Key/High-Key
These terms express subtle excitement (low-key) versus overt enthusiasm (high-key). While “low-key” has existed as an adjective, its adverbial slang use is more recent.
14. Bussin’
A term from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), “bussin’” traditionally referred to delicious food but has been appropriated by Gen Z to describe anything amazing.
15. Simp
Originally used in 1980s hip-hop, “simp” is now an insult for men seen as overly submissive to women, often carrying sexist undertones.
16. Vibing
“Vibing” means relaxing and enjoying the moment. It originates from the 1960s slang “vibe,” which referred to a mood or atmosphere.
17. Unalive
A word used in place of “kill” or “die” due to social media censorship. Some find it dystopian and a troubling reflection of platform control over language.
18. Rizz
Short for “charisma,” this word irritates some because it sounds juvenile and lacks the depth of the original term.
19. Mid
Used to describe something as average or below average, “mid” is disliked because it implies that being average is inherently bad.
20. Based
Meant to express admiration or agreement, “based” confuses people who aren’t familiar with its slang usage.
21. Aesthetic
Used incorrectly as a standalone adjective (e.g., “That painting is aesthetic”), this frustrates grammar purists.
22. No Printer
A convoluted way of saying “fax” (which itself means “truth”), this phrase is widely criticized for being unnecessarily complicated.
23. Sus
A shortened form of “suspicious,” “sus” is disliked for its abbreviation, with critics arguing that saying the full word isn’t difficult.
24. Glizzy
A term that can mean both a hotdog and a gun, “glizzy” unsettles many due to its ambiguous and often inappropriate connotations.
Final Thoughts
Gen Z’s slang reflects creativity, cultural influences, and the power of social media. However, it’s important to recognize the origins of these words and use them respectfully. While some people embrace the evolution of language, others find certain terms cringeworthy or confusing.
One thing is certain—slang will continue to evolve, and what’s trendy today may be cheugy tomorrow. So whether you’re vibing with these terms or you think they’re mid, at least now you understand the assignment.
