Gen Z slang has quickly become a defining part of modern communication, especially in the age of social media and internet culture. As young people continue to shape the digital landscape, they’ve developed a unique set of terms and phrases that reflect their values, humor, and style. Whether it’s on TikTok, X (formally known as twitter), or in everyday conversations, these slang words have spread far and wide, adding a fresh layer to how we interact. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of Gen Z slang, breaking down some of the most popular and widely used words. Whether you’re looking to understand the latest trends or just curious about what these terms mean, our Gen Z slang dictionary will help you get up to speed.
Learn English with EnglishCentral
Building your vocabulary is key to mastering a language, and learning new and generational words along with common words can make a big difference in how fluently and expressively you speak. EnglishCentral gives you the perfect tools and environment to expand your vocabulary, practice new words, and use them with confidence.
With 25-minute one-on-one lessons for all ages and levels, EnglishCentral offers personalized and effective learning. These online live sessions are led by expert English teachers who guide you step by step, helping you improve at your own pace. You can also join 40-minute group lessons, where you’ll take part in fun, interactive conversations with your teacher and classmates.
However, EnglishCentral is more than just lessons! You’ll have access to thousands of interactive videos tailored to different interests. With our Watch, Learn, Speak, and Discuss steps, you can reinforce vocabulary and plan private lessons based on your needs. Quizzes, word exercises, and our AI-powered teacher MiMi make practicing English even easier. MiMi is always available to help you navigate different scenarios, from business meetings to ordering food, so you’re prepared for real-life conversations.
After each lesson, MiMi provides personalized reports, tracking your progress and highlighting areas for improvement. This instant feedback helps you stay focused on your goals and gain the confidence to use English in everyday life.
EnglishCentral combines traditional learning with cutting-edge technology, making it a fun and effective way to improve your skills. And when you sign up, you’ll get a free trial lesson to see the difference for yourself! Start your English journey today with our innovative platform and expert teachers.
Gen Z Slang Dictionary
This dictionary will help you communicate or understand teens better- and you can add these words to your vocabulary to use in your conversations!
| Slang Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ate and Left No Crumbs | Used to express someone did an amazing job, especially in style or performance. |
| Aura | The vibe or energy someone gives off. |
| Bet | Used to agree, like "okay" or "sure." |
| Bop | A really good song. |
| Bussin’ | Something that tastes or looks really good. |
| Cancel Culture | The act of boycotting someone for problematic behavior. |
| Cap | A lie or exaggeration. |
| Caught in 4K | Someone got caught doing something, with undeniable proof. |
| CEO | The "best" at something, someone that is good at a specific thing. |
| Cringe | Something awkward, embarrassing, or outdated. |
| Drip | Stylish clothing or accessories. |
| E-Boy / E-Girl | A social media-driven aesthetic, often edgy or alternative. |
| Facts | Total agreement, used similarly to "you’re so right." |
| Fam | Close friends, like "family." |
| Finna | Short for "fixing to" or "about to" do something. |
| FRFR | "For real, for real" — emphasizing that something is serious or true. |
| G.O.A.T. | Short for "Greatest Of All Time." |
| Ghosting | Suddenly cutting off communication with someone, usually on text. |
| Glow up | A major positive transformation, especially in looks or confidence. |
| Hits Different | Something feels better or more special than usual. |
| Ick | A feeling of discomfort or disgust that makes you lose attraction to someone, usually after something they’ve done. |
| Iykyk | Short for "If you know, you know", used to mention an inside reference only some people understand. |
| L | Short for "loss" — used when someone fails or does something embarrassing. |
| Let Him/Her Cook | Let someone continue what they’re doing, they’re on a roll and doing good. |
| Let’s Get This Bread | A hype phrase about making money or achieving success. |
| Looksmaxxing | Optimizing your appearance as much as possible, usually used by men that go to gym and take care of themselves to get better. |
| Mewing | A technique to improve jawline by positioning your tongue a certain way. |
| Mid | Average, boring. |
| Only in Ohio | It’s used for things/events that are absurd or weird. |
| Periodt | Used to emphasize a point, like "that’s final." |
| Poggers | It’s a reaction to something that is impressive or exciting. |
| Real | Used to agree or acknowledge something relatable. |
| Rizz | Short for "charisma", it means flirting skills or the ability to charm someone. |
| Say Less | "I got it" or "understood," no more explanation needed. |
| Sending me | Something is so funny it’s "sending" you into laughter. |
| Sheesh | An exaggerated "wow" or reaction to something impressive. |
| Sigma | Usually used as “sigma male” and to describe men that are lone wolf types, often confident and independent. |
| Simp | Someone who goes overboard for someone they’re attracted to, often used jokingly or mockingly. |
| Slay | To absolutely succeed and look amazing doing it. |
| Snatched | Looking fantastic, especially with an outfit or makeup. |
| Stan | A hardcore fan of someone or something, a mixture of “stalker” and “fan.” |
| Sus | Short for "suspicious" and used when someone’s acting shady. |
| Tea | Gossip or drama that is interesting and scandalous. |
| This Ain't It, Chief | A way to say something’s disappointing or not good. |
| Unc | Short for “uncle”, often used to talk about older men. |
| Vibe Check | A quick way to ask how someone’s feeling or to assess a situation’s mood. |
| W | Short for "win" or “winning”, used to describe something great or to show approval or praise. |
| FOMO | Stands for “Fear Of Missing Out,” describing the anxiety of missing a fun event or experience. |
| Lit | Used to describe something that’s really fun, exciting, or impressive. |
| Flex | To show off, usually about achievements, style, or expensive things. |
| Savage | Describes someone who’s brutally honest, bold, or unapologetically confident. |
| Slaps | When something, usually music or food, is incredibly good. |
| Shook | Feeling shocked or surprised |
| Recep | It describes a bad or funny situation that happens to someone. It’s especially used to comment on other people’s misfortunes. |
| Yas | An enthusiastic, drawn-out “yes,” often used to cheer someone on. |
| Thirsty | Describes someone who’s trying too hard for attention or validation. |
| Clout | Influence, popularity, or social status, especially online. |
| Woke | Originally meant being socially aware, but now also used sarcastically when someone’s over-explaining social issues. |
Example Sentences About Gen Z Slang Words
We’ve put together example sentences with some of the popular Gen Z slang words to help you understand how to use them naturally.
– She slayed that performance, she ate and left no crumbs!
– You think I can’t finish this project in one night? Bet.
– This pizza is bussin’, I need another slice!
– You got tickets to the concert? No way, that’s cap!
– He said he didn’t eat my fries, but I caught him in 4K.
– She’s the CEO of giving the best advice.
– That video was so cringe, I couldn’t even watch it.
– Check out his outfit, he’s got serious drip today!
– Pineapple on pizza is bad. Facts.
– I thought we were getting along, but then he started ghosting me.
– Spill the tea, what happened at the party last night?
– He chews with his mouth open, total ick.
– He’s onto something big , let him cook!
– He’s acting super sus, like he’s hiding something.
– You got an A on your exam? That’s a W!
Frequently Asked Questions About Gen Z Slang Words
How do I respond to someone saying “Cap”?
If someone says “Cap,” it means they’re calling something a lie. You can reply with “No cap” to show you’re being truthful.
How do I know if someone is a “Simp”?
If someone is overly dedicated or goes out of their way for someone they like, you might call them a “Simp.”
How do I use “W”?
“W” is used to show approval or to celebrate a win. For example, “You passed the test? That’s a W!”
Why do people say “Periodt”?
“Periodt” is used to emphasize something and add finality to a statement. Example: “That’s how it is, periodt!”
Would you like to put what you have learned into practice? You can access everything you need to learn English on a single platform! With 25-minute one-on-one live English lessons, 40-minute group lessons, more than 30,000 interactive videos, vocabulary learning tools, AI-supported tutor MiMi, quizzes, and interactive activities, EnglishCentral offers its users a personalized and quality education plan at an affordable price. How about registering for EnglishCentral now and starting to learn English?
