Trying to understand all the wild slang words Gen Z is using lately? It feels like every week they create some fresh new lingo that makes zero sense to anyone over 15. While slang has always existed, this new wave of youthful vernacular seems extra bizarre and hard to decipher.
Let’s look at 15 of the weirdest, most damaging Gen Z slang terms butchering the English language.
1. “Slay”
This term is used to express that someone or something is extremely good, impressive, or excellent. For example, “Her outfit was totally slaying at the party.” It can also mean to succeed or do very well.
The term likely originated from the phrase “to slay all day,” which means to look or perform exceptionally well throughout the day.
2. “Bae”
Bae is a shortened version of the words “baby” or “babe,” used as a term of endearment for a romantic partner. For example, “I’m going out with my bae tonight.” It’s a versatile word that can be used as a noun, adjective, or even a verb. Some people use it ironically or as a joke.
3. “Lit”
This slang term means something is exciting, amazing, or generally excellent. For example, “The concert was so lit!” It can also be used to describe someone who is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. The term likely originated from the phrase “to get lit,” meaning to become intoxicated.
4. “Shade”
Shade refers to subtle, indirect criticism or disrespect towards someone. For example, “She threw some serious shade at her ex during her speech.” It can also mean to exclude or ignore someone intentionally.
5. “Extra”
This term is used to describe someone or something that is excessive, over-the-top, or dramatic. For example, “He was being extra by making such a big deal out of it.” It can also mean unnecessary or unnecessary.
6. “Salty”
Salty means being upset, bitter, or resentful about something. For example, “She’s still salty about not getting the job.” It can also refer to someone who is angry or irritated. The term likely originated from the phrase “to be salty,” which means to be angry or resentful, especially after a loss or defeat.
7. “Flex”
To flex means to show off or boast about something, usually material possessions or achievements. For example, “He was flexing his new sneakers on Instagram.” It can also be used as a noun, referring to the act of showing off itself.
The term likely originated from the phrase “to flex one’s muscles,” meaning to show off one’s physical strength.
8. “Cancel”
To cancel someone means to withdraw support or stop being a fan of someone, usually due to their controversial or offensive behavior or comments. For example, “She got canceled after her insensitive tweet went viral.” It can also refer to the act of boycotting or rejecting someone or something.
9. “Savage”
Savage is used to describe someone or something that is fierce, intense, or brutally honest. For example, “Her comeback to that insult was savage!” It can also mean someone who is unafraid to speak their mind or act in a bold or confident manner.
10. “Tea”
Tea refers to gossip or juicy personal information. For example, “I have all the tea on what happened at the party.” It can also mean to share or spill this type of information. The term likely originated from the phrase “spill the tea,” which means to share gossip or secrets.
11. “Snatched”
Snatched means to look extremely good, stylish, or attractive. For example, “Her makeup was snatched for the event.” It can also be used to describe someone who has achieved a desirable physical appearance through effort or hard work.
12. “Stan”
A stan is an overzealous or obsessive fan of a particular celebrity or artist. For example, “She’s a total stan for that K-pop group.” It can also be used as a verb, meaning to exhibit this type of excessive fandom. The term likely originated from the 2000 Eminem song “Stan,” which tells the story of an overzealous fan.
13. “Thicc”
Thicc is used to describe someone, usually a woman, with a curvaceous or voluptuous body shape. For example, “She’s got a thicc figure.” It can also be used to compliment someone’s physical appearance or body positivity.
14. “Thirsty”
Thirsty means to be desperate or overly eager for attention, usually in a romantic or sexual context. For example, “He was acting so thirsty around her, it was embarrassing.” It can also refer to someone who is constantly seeking validation or approval from others.
15. “Vibe”
Vibe refers to the overall mood, atmosphere, or general feeling of a particular situation or environment. For example, “The party had such a chill vibe.” It can also be used as a verb, meaning to resonate with or feel a particular mood or energy.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, slang is just slang – it comes and goes with each new generation. While some of Gen Z’s lingo might seem silly or nonsensical now, it’s all part of the natural evolution of language.
The English vocabulary is ever-changing and malleable. Who knows, in a few years we might all be “slaying” and calling things “snatched” without a second thought!
15 Reasons Gen Z Struggles To Find Jobs
