Gen Z is a shortened form of Generation Z and refers to individuals born between 1997–2012. The “Z” in Generation Z comes from following the alphabet after Generation X and Y (Millennials), making it the next label in sequence. However, informally, it stands for ‘Zoomer’ as they are the first generation exposed to the web and technology
What makes Gen Z different is its use of highly creative new words and phrases that may seem like gibberish or secret codes, but are actually just different ways of expression. Some of them are so relatable that you might find yourself asking, “Why did I not know this before?”
With ever-evolving slang, it’s best to keep yourself in the loop so no one can outsmart you. It also helps to stay connected with Gen Z — whether at work or at home with kids.
Here’s a quick look at the top 20 Gen Z slang words, what they mean, and how to use them.
1. Bet
- Meaning: It is used to express agreement or confirmation; it’s a response to a statement or a proposition.
- How to use it: Are you coming for the match tonight? — Bet!
- Meaning: It implies falsity, exaggeration, or a lie.
- How to use it: He said he would submit the entire project by today, but that’s cap.
- Meaning: It’s a short term for ‘delusional,’ implying someone who is unrealistically optimistic.
- How to use it: “Me and my delulu self against the world” is a phrase often used in K-pop fandoms.
- Meaning: It is often used for someone who displays ‘over-the-top’ or excessive behaviour.
- How to use it: His behaviour at the party was so extra.
- Meaning: It is a short term for ‘fear of missing out’ on something exciting, like a party.
- How to use it: I have major FOMO after missing out on Taylor’s concert.
- Meaning: It means to stop communicating with someone abruptly, especially in online interactions.
- How to use it: He ghosted me after our first date.
- Meaning: It is often used as an adjective meaning good, cool, or amazing.
- How to use it: How was the party? It was Gucci!
- Meaning: It is slang for making something public without forewarning, mostly used in the context of relationships.
- How to use it: She hard-launched her boyfriend on Instagram.
- Meaning: It stands for ‘joy of missing out,’ the opposite of ‘fear of missing out.’
- How to use it: I won’t go to the party tonight; I am having a JOMO moment.
- Meaning: It is a fun hangout, a party, or a gathering with friends.
- How to use it: We are going to Sabrina’s house for a kiki.
- Meaning: It is used to describe something that is exciting, great, or awesome.
- How to use it: The decor at the party was totally lit.
- Meaning: If you’re feeling self-confident and living like you’re the hero of the story, then you have main character energy.
- How to use it: She walked into the party with main character energy.
- Meaning: It’s a shortened term for ‘newbie’ and refers to someone who is a beginner and inexperienced.
- How to use it: The new actor in the movie is such a noob.
- Meaning: It is more often a dating behaviour where you follow someone’s online life without directly engaging with them.
- How to use it: I am guilty of orbiting my ex’s Instagram account.
- Meaning: When something is understated but very expensive; it subtly reveals wealth and status.
- How to use it: She prefers quiet luxury when it comes to dressing up for parties.
- Meaning: It is used for those who are bitter or upset, often in relation to something.
- How to use it: I am feeling a bit salty after losing the game.
- Meaning: This is used for doing something extremely well, in an impressive way.
- How to use it: She totally slayed the runway.
- Meaning: Often used in a fashion context, it describes something that looks flawless, put-together, and amazing.
- How to use it: Everything about her look in the movie was snatched.
- Meaning: This is a common Gen Z slang for gossip, information, or even secrets.
- How to use it: He’s got all the tea about the new girl in the class.
- Meaning: It is used to refer to those who are aware of social justice issues.
- How to use it: My friend is quite woke, she campaigns for women’s rights.
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