"Gen Z slang" is a vibrant, evolving language that can be perplexing to those from the Boomer generation. Here's a breakdown of some common terms:
Tea: This term means gossip or the latest news. It originated from drag culture and was popularized by the internet. For instance, "Spill the tea" means "Share the gossip."
Lit: Describes something exciting or excellent. Historically, it referred to being intoxicated, but Gen Z uses it more broadly. Example: "This party is lit!"
Woke: Initially used in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) to describe social awareness, it now broadly means being alert to social injustices. Example: "Stay woke about the political situation."
Mood: Used to express relatability or agreement with a feeling or situation. It often accompanies a meme or image. Example: Posting a picture of someone tired with the caption "Mood" to express exhaustion.
Stan: A combination of "stalker" and "fan," it originally came from Eminem's song "Stan." It means an ardent admirer. Example: "I stan Beyoncé."
GOAT: An acronym for "Greatest of All Time." Example: "Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball."
Salty: Describes someone who is bitter or upset. Example: "He’s salty about losing the game."
Thirsty: Refers to someone who is overly eager or desperate, often for attention. Example: "She’s posting so many selfies; she’s so thirsty."
No cap: Means "no lie" or "for real." Originating in rap culture, it signifies honesty. Example: "That was the best concert ever, no cap."
Flex: To show off, usually material possessions or accomplishments. Example: "He loves to flex his new car."
Lowkey: Describes something understated or done quietly. Example: "I’m lowkey excited about the trip."
Highkey: The opposite of lowkey, meaning something that is openly or obviously done. Example: "I highkey want to go to that concert."
Simp: Someone who is overly attentive and submissive to someone they like, often at the expense of their own self-respect. Example: "He’s such a simp for always doing her homework."
Sus: Short for suspicious or suspect. Popularized by the game Among Us. Example: "That guy acting weird is really sus."
Yeet: An exclamation of excitement, approval, or surprise, often used when throwing something with force. Example: "He yeeted the ball across the field."
Bop: Refers to a good song. Example: "This new track is a bop."
Understanding these terms can help bridge the generational language gap and enable better communication with Gen Z.