Hey there! Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Generation Z. Born roughly between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is a dynamic group that’s reshaping culture, technology, and communication. One of the most fascinating aspects of this generation is their unique slang—a colorful language that can sometimes feel like a code only they can crack.
Who is Generation Z?
Generation Z is the first generation to grow up with the internet and smartphones at their fingertips. They’re digital natives, constantly connected to social media and online platforms, influencing how they communicate and the very words they use. This generation is known for being socially conscious, valuing inclusivity, and often pushing for change. Their slang reflects this spirit—vibrant, playful, and ever-evolving.
Why Should Parents Care?
As a parent, navigating this new language can seem daunting. However, learning and using Gen Z slang can effectively bridge the communication gap with your kids. It shows you’re engaged and interested in their world, helping to foster a deeper connection. Plus, it can make conversations more fun!
Gen Z Slang List
Here’s a handy list of 50 popular Gen Z slang words, along with their meanings, explanations, and examples. Use these to impress your kids, start conversations, or keep up with the times!
1. Fam
Meaning: Close friends or family.
Example: “What’s up, fam?”
2. Glow Up
Meaning: A transformation, often in terms of looks or style.
Example: “She had a major glow-up after high school.”
3. CEO
Meaning: Someone who excels at something.
Example: “He’s the CEO of studying; he never fails a test.”
4. Cancel Culture
Meaning: Shaming public figures for controversial actions.
Example: “The celebrity faced cancel culture after that tweet.”
5. Stan
Meaning: An obsessive fan.
Example: “I stan that artist; I’ve been to all their concerts!”
6. E-boy/E-girl
Meaning: A style influenced by emo culture, often showcased online.
Example: “He dresses like an E-boy with all those chains.”
7. W
Meaning: A win or success.
Example: “Getting that scholarship was a big W for her.”
8. Dank
Meaning: High quality or excellent.
Example: “This pizza is dank!”
9. Salty
Meaning: Bitter or annoyed.
Example: “I’m salty about losing that game.”
10. Boujee
Meaning: Extravagant or high-class.
Example: “She loves her boujee lifestyle.”
11. Finna
Meaning: Short for “I’m going to.”
Example: “I’m finna head to the store.”
12. Cap
Meaning: To lie or exaggerate.
Example: “He said he ran a marathon, but I think that’s cap.”
13. High-key
Meaning: Openly or very much.
Example: “High-key, I’m excited for the concert.”
14. Cheugy
Meaning: Out of style or trying too hard.
Example: “Wearing that shirt is so cheugy.”
15. Simp
Meaning: Someone who does too much for someone they like.
Example: “He’s such a simp for her.”
16. Camp
Meaning: Something that is intentionally exaggerated or ironic.
Example: “That movie is so camp; it’s hilarious!”
17. Snack
Meaning: An attractive person.
Example: “Did you see him? He’s a snack!”
18. TFW
Meaning: That feeling when.
Example: “TFW you finish all your homework early.”
19. Woke
Meaning: Politically aware and socially conscious.
Example: “She’s woke about environmental issues.”
20. Drip
Meaning: Stylish or cool clothing.
Example: “Check out his drip; he always looks good!”
21. Sip Tea
Meaning: To sit back and listen to gossip.
Example: “I’m just sipping tea while they argue.”
22. L
Meaning: A loss or failure.
Example: “That was an L for the team.”
23. Bussin’
Meaning: Extremely good or delicious.
Example: “This food is bussin’!”
24. Shook
Meaning: Shocked or surprised.
Example: “I was shook when I heard the news.”
25. Flex
Meaning: To show off or brag.
Example: “He loves to flex his new car.”
26. Vibe
Meaning: The overall atmosphere or feeling.
Example: “This café has a chill vibe.”
27. GOAT
Meaning: Greatest of All Time.
Example: “Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball.”
28. Extra
Meaning: Over-the-top or excessive.
Example: “Her outfit was so extra with all the glitter.”
29. Low-key
Meaning: Secretly or subtly.
Example: “I’m low-key stressed about the exam.”
30. High-key
Meaning: Openly or very much.
Example: “High-key, I love this song.”
31. Bop
Meaning: A catchy song.
Example: “This tune is such a bop!”
32. Mood
Meaning: A relatable feeling or state of mind.
Example: “I’m so tired; that’s a mood.”
33. FOMO
Meaning: Fear of Missing Out.
Example: “I have major FOMO about the party tonight.”
34. IRL
Meaning: In Real Life.
Example: “I met her IRL after chatting online for months.”
35. Clout
Meaning: Influence or power, especially on social media.
Example: “He’s just doing it for clout.”
36. Savage
Meaning: Someone who is bold or tough.
Example: “She gave a savage response to the insult.”
37. Banger
Meaning: A really good song or track.
Example: “That new track is a banger!”
38. Hype
Meaning: Excitement or buzz about something.
Example: “There’s a lot of hype around that new movie.”
39. Slay
Meaning: To do something exceptionally well.
Example: “She slayed her performance last night!”
40. Tbh
Meaning: To be honest.
Example: “Tbh, I’m not really into that band.”
41. Finesse
Meaning: To handle a situation smoothly or skillfully.
Example: “He managed to finesse his way into the VIP area.”
42. Receipts
Meaning: Proof or evidence, often used in gossip.
Example: “Do you have receipts for that claim?”
43. Periodt
Meaning: Used to emphasize a statement, indicating the end of discussion.
Example: “That’s the best movie, periodt.”
44. Shade
Meaning: Subtle, sneering expression of contempt.
Example: “She threw some shade at her friend.”
45. Bet
Meaning: A term of agreement or confirmation.
Example: “We’re going to the mall later?” “Bet!”
46. Vibe Check
Meaning: Assessing the mood of a person or a situation.
Example: “Let’s do a vibe check before we enter the party.”
47. Suss
Meaning: Suspicious or suspect.
Example: “That situation was a little suss.”
48. Zesty
Meaning: Full of energy and enthusiasm.
Example: “He has such a zesty personality!”
49. Salty
Meaning: Bitter or upset.
Example: “I’m feeling a bit salty about losing.”
50. Drip
Meaning: Swag or cool style; refers to someone’s fashionable and stylish appearance.
Example: “Check out her outfit! She’s got some serious drip today!”
Final Thoughts
Understanding Gen Z slang isn’t just about keeping up with your kids; it’s about connecting with them on a deeper level. Incorporating these terms into your conversations can break down barriers and make communication more engaging. So, the next time your kid drops a slang bomb, you’ll be ready to respond with confidence!
