If you look it up in the dictionary, slay means to kill somebody or something. However, if you go online, the slay meaning relates to doing something extraordinarily well. So, if you hear your friend say, “I am going to slay my exams,” that just means he’ll ace the test.
What Does Slay Mean Online?
The word slay is a verb with different meanings. It can mean to kill, to strike down, to delight, and, as mentioned earlier, to do something exceptionally well.
The latter definition is more prevalent in online conversations on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok and is often used as a compliment or an encouragement. Here’s an example conversation:
“I’m going to audition today.” You can respond with something like, “You are going to slay it!”
The word slay’s popular usage can be traced back to the 70s to 80s queer ball culture. By 2009, it gained traction again because of RuPaul’s Drag Race. 7 years later, Beyoncé put the term to mainstream by including “slay” in her song “Formation.”
Example sentences:
- You absolutely slayed your presentation today!
- Did you see how she slayed that look on the red carpet?
- Beyoncé slayed it!
- That dance routine was amazing, you guys slayed it!
- Slay, queen! You look stunning!
- Yas queen, slay!
- You slayed that test, girl, with that 105%!
- All the contents slayed in RuPaul’s Drag Race!
- SLAY GIRL 💁♀️ Where’d you get that dress??
When and How to Use Slay?
So, what’s the correct usage of the word? You can use the slang term slay in everyday conversations, in text messages, or social media comments. So, when should you use the word slay? The most popular uses are:
1. To compliment or praise
Example: You totally slayed that outfit, girl!
2. To describe yourself or an accomplishment
Example: OMG! I slayed this makeup today!
3. In everyday conversation
Example: I sent a video to your inbox! She slayed!
4. As encouragement or motivation
Example: C’mon! Go out there and slay it!
5. While texting or commenting on social media
In this case, the word is usually illustrated with girly emojis like 💅, 🔥, 👑, and 💁♀️ for fun and emphasis.
Example: SLAYYY 🔥🔥🔥(to express your approval for an image or video)
Tip: For formal settings like at work, it’s best to stick with more professional words or phrases like “great job” and “you’ll do great!”
Other Ways to Say Slay
If you’re afraid that the person you are talking with is unaware of the slang meaning of slay, here are other phrases that convey the same encouragement or admiration.
- Go out there and kill it!
- You did really well!
- Do it!
- You got this!
- Right on!
- You are at the top of your game!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! The slay meaning online means to do something amazingly well. People use the word to encourage, admire, or compliment somebody else’s abilities, looks, or accomplishments.
