VIBE OF THE DAY
Safe

Vibe

Slang

The feeling or energy of a place, person, or situation. Also means to chill and enjoy yourself.

πŸ“– Originally from 1960s counterculture, revived by hip-hop and now universal in Gen Z language.

Example

"This playlist has such a good vibe."

#HipHop#GenZ#Lifestyle

Showing 150 results

Slang
Risky

Type shi

Popularity

Short for 'Type of shit', meaning 'That's the vibe' or 'Exactly'.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

GenZChatCasual

Origin

Atlanta hip-hop culture, popularized on TikTok around 2022.

Examples

"I'm thinking of grabbing boba after class." "Type shi."

"We should hit the beach this weekend." "Type shi, let's go."

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Slang
Safe

No cap

Popularity

For real, not lying. Used to emphasize truthfulness.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaCasual

Origin

African American Vernacular English (AAVE), popularized by Atlanta rap scene.

Examples

"That movie was fire, no cap."

"No cap, this is the best pizza I've ever had."

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Slang
Safe

Slay

Popularity

To do something exceptionally well; to look amazing or perform outstandingly.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaFashion

Origin

Drag and ballroom culture of the 1980s–90s, mainstream via social media.

Examples

"You absolutely slayed that presentation!"

"She walked in and slayed the whole room."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

It's giving…

Popularity

Used to describe the vibe or energy something is projecting.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaFashion

Origin

Ballroom culture, widely adopted on TikTok and Twitter.

Examples

"That outfit? It's giving CEO energy."

"This cafΓ© is giving cozy winter vibes."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Bussin

Popularity

Extremely good, usually referring to food but can apply to anything excellent.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZFoodSocialMedia

Origin

African American Vernacular English, viral via TikTok food reviews.

Examples

"This ramen is bussin, you gotta try it."

"The new album? Bussin from track one."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Bet

Popularity

Agreement or confirmation, similar to 'okay' or 'sounds good'.

⚑ Safe to use

ChatCasualGenZ

Origin

AAVE, widely used since the 1990s, resurgence on social media.

Examples

"Meet you at 8?" "Bet."

"I'll cover your shift tomorrow." "Bet, thanks."

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Slang
Safe

Rizz

Popularity

Charisma and charm, especially the ability to attract romantic interest.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZRomanceSocialMedia

Origin

Coined by YouTuber Kai Cenat, Oxford Word of the Year 2023.

Examples

"He's got insane rizz, everyone loves him."

"She rizzed him up in two sentences flat."

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Slang
Caution

Brainrot

Popularity

Content so addictive and mind-numbing that it feels like it's rotting your brain.

⚑ Use with caution

GenZInternetSocialMedia

Origin

Internet culture, used to describe excessive consumption of short-form video.

Examples

"I've been watching Shorts for 3 hours. Pure brainrot."

"The brainrot is real with these memes."

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Slang
Safe

Ate and left no crumbs

Popularity

Did something so perfectly that there's nothing left to criticize.

⚑ Safe to use

SocialMediaFashionEntertainment

Origin

Drag and stan culture, popularized on Twitter and TikTok.

Examples

"Her performance at the Grammys? She ate and left no crumbs."

"The director ate with that final scene."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Main character energy

Popularity

Acting or feeling like you're the protagonist of a movie β€” living boldly and unapologetically.

⚑ Safe to use

SocialMediaGenZLifestyle

Origin

TikTok trend from 2020, rooted in self-empowerment culture.

Examples

"Walking through the airport with headphones on β€” main character energy."

"She's got total main character energy today."

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Idiom
Safe

Break the ice

Popularity

To initiate conversation in an awkward or tense social situation.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeSocialClassic

Origin

Derived from the practice of breaking ice to allow ships to pass, used since the 17th century.

Examples

"He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting."

"The team-building exercise was perfect for breaking the ice."

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Idiom
Safe

Spill the tea

Popularity

To share gossip or reveal exciting, often secret, information.

⚑ Safe to use

SocialMediaGenZCasual

Origin

Drag culture, mainstream via reality TV and social media in the 2010s.

Examples

"Girl, spill the tea β€” what happened at the party?"

"She's about to spill the tea on that whole situation."

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Idiom
Safe

Burn bridges

Popularity

To destroy a relationship or connection, making it impossible to return.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeRelationshipsClassic

Origin

Military strategy β€” literally burning bridges to prevent enemy retreat.

Examples

"Don't burn bridges with your old employer; you might need a reference."

"He burned all his bridges when he quit without notice."

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Idiom
Safe

Bite the bullet

Popularity

To endure a painful or difficult situation with courage.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicMotivation

Origin

Wartime practice of biting a bullet during surgery without anesthesia.

Examples

"I have to bite the bullet and have that difficult conversation."

"Just bite the bullet and submit the application."

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Idiom
Safe

Under the weather

Popularity

Feeling slightly ill or unwell.

⚑ Safe to use

EverydayClassicHealth

Origin

Nautical origin β€” sailors going below deck during storms to feel better.

Examples

"I'm feeling a bit under the weather, so I'll skip the gym."

"She's been under the weather all week with a cold."

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Slang
Safe

Low-key

Popularity

Secretly, modestly, or to a small degree. The opposite of 'high-key'.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZChatCasual

Origin

Hip-hop culture, widespread on social media since the mid-2010s.

Examples

"I low-key want to skip the party tonight."

"That song is low-key the best on the album."

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Slang
Safe

Ghosting

Popularity

Suddenly cutting off all communication with someone without explanation.

⚑ Safe to use

RomanceSocialMediaGenZ

Origin

Dating culture, became mainstream term around 2015.

Examples

"He ghosted me after three dates β€” zero warning."

"Please don't ghost the recruiter; just decline politely."

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Slang
Safe

Flex

Popularity

To show off, boast, or display something impressive.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaCasual

Origin

Hip-hop culture β€” flexing muscles evolved to flexing wealth and success.

Examples

"Nice car β€” are you flexing on us?"

"She was flexing her new sneakers at school."

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Idiom
Safe

The ball is in your court

Popularity

It's your turn to take action or make a decision.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicBusiness

Origin

Tennis metaphor β€” the ball is literally on your side of the court.

Examples

"I've sent the proposal. The ball is in your court now."

"We've made our offer β€” the ball is in their court."

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Slang
Safe

Hit different

Popularity

Something that feels uniquely impactful or emotionally resonant.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaCasual

Origin

AAVE β€” used online since around 2019 to express unique emotional impact.

Examples

"Coffee at 6 AM on a Sunday just hits different."

"This song hits different when you're driving at night."

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Slang
Safe

GOAT

Popularity

Greatest Of All Time β€” used to praise someone as the best in their field.

⚑ Safe to use

SportsSocialMediaGenZ

Origin

Muhammad Ali was one of the first to claim the title. Acronym popularized in hip-hop.

Examples

"Messi is the GOAT, no debate."

"Grandma's cookies? She's the GOAT."

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Idiom
Safe

Caught red-handed

Popularity

Caught in the act of doing something wrong or illegal.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicEverydayLegal

Origin

Scottish origin β€” literally having blood-red hands after committing a crime.

Examples

"He was caught red-handed eating the last slice of cake."

"The shop lifter was caught red-handed by security."

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Slang
Safe

Vibe check

Popularity

A quick assessment of someone's mood, energy, or the overall atmosphere.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaChat

Origin

TikTok and meme culture, emerged as a trend in 2019.

Examples

"Vibe check β€” how are we feeling about the project?"

"The party passed the vibe check instantly."

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Idiom
Safe

A piece of cake

Popularity

Something very easy to do.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicEverydaySchool

Origin

1930s American English β€” cakes were given as prizes at competitions.

Examples

"The exam was a piece of cake β€” finished in 30 minutes."

"Don't worry, parallel parking is a piece of cake once you practice."

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Slang
Safe

Salty

Popularity

Bitter, upset, or irritated β€” often over something minor.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZGamingSocialMedia

Origin

AAVE origins, used since at least the 1930s, went viral in gaming culture.

Examples

"Why are you so salty about losing one game?"

"She got salty when they didn't invite her."

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Slang
Caution

Touch grass

Popularity

Go outside and experience reality β€” implies someone is spending too much time online.

⚑ Use with caution

InternetGamingGenZ

Origin

Internet forums and gaming communities, peaked around 2021.

Examples

"You've been arguing online for 6 hours. Go touch grass."

"Bro needs to touch grass after that rant."

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Idiom
Safe

Cost an arm and a leg

Popularity

Extremely expensive.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicEverydayFinance

Origin

Post-WWII American expression about high costs.

Examples

"That designer jacket costs an arm and a leg."

"Rent in this city costs an arm and a leg."

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Slang
Safe

Ick

Popularity

A sudden feeling of disgust or turn-off toward someone you were interested in.

⚑ Safe to use

RomanceGenZSocialMedia

Origin

Dating culture, popularized by reality TV show Love Island.

Examples

"He chewed with his mouth open β€” instant ick."

"Running for the bus gave me the ick."

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Idiom
Safe

Let the cat out of the bag

Popularity

To accidentally reveal a secret.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicEverydaySocial

Origin

18th-century market fraud β€” sellers would substitute cats for piglets in bags.

Examples

"Oops, I let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party."

"Don't let the cat out of the bag β€” it's supposed to be confidential."

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Slang
Safe

Sus

Popularity

Short for suspicious β€” used when something or someone seems dishonest or shady.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZGamingChat

Origin

Popular since the 1930s in British English, resurgence via 'Among Us' game (2020).

Examples

"That email looks sus β€” don't click the link."

"Why are you acting so sus right now?"

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Idiom
Safe

Kill two birds with one stone

Popularity

To solve two problems or accomplish two objectives with a single action.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicOfficeMotivation

Origin

Ancient proverb, first recorded in English by Thomas Hobbes in 1656.

Examples

"I'll study at the cafΓ© β€” kill two birds with one stone."

"Working out in the morning kills two birds: fitness and energy."

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Slang
Safe

Rent free

Popularity

When something or someone occupies your thoughts constantly and without effort.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZSocialMediaInternet

Origin

Internet culture, popularized from the phrase 'living rent free in your head'.

Examples

"That song is living rent free in my head."

"Her comeback is living rent free in my mind."

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Idiom
Safe

Once in a blue moon

Popularity

Very rarely; almost never.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicEverydayTimePhrases

Origin

Refers to the rare occurrence of two full moons in one calendar month.

Examples

"He only cleans his room once in a blue moon."

"We go to that restaurant once in a blue moon."

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Slang
Caution

Simp

Popularity

Someone who does way too much for a person they like, often without reciprocation.

⚑ Use with caution

GenZRomanceGaming

Origin

Hip-hop culture, reintroduced via TikTok and gaming communities.

Examples

"He bought her flowers every day for a month β€” total simp move."

"Don't simp, king. Know your worth."

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Idiom
Safe

Barking up the wrong tree

Popularity

Pursuing a mistaken or misguided course of action.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicOfficeEveryday

Origin

Early 19th-century American hunting β€” dogs barking at the wrong tree after prey.

Examples

"If you think I took your lunch, you're barking up the wrong tree."

"They're barking up the wrong tree with that marketing strategy."

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Slang
Safe

W / L

Popularity

W = Win / L = Loss. Used to quickly judge something as good or bad.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZGamingChat

Origin

Gaming and sports culture, shorthand that became universal on social media.

Examples

"Got front-row tickets. Massive W."

"Burnt my dinner again. Huge L."

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Idiom
Safe

Throw shade

Popularity

To subtly show disrespect or contempt toward someone.

⚑ Safe to use

SocialMediaGenZEntertainment

Origin

Drag and ballroom culture (1980s), mainstream via 'RuPaul's Drag Race'.

Examples

"Did she just throw shade at my outfit?"

"He threw shade at the competitor during the interview."

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Slang
Safe

Cap

Popularity

A lie. 'That's cap' means 'That's a lie'.

⚑ Safe to use

GenZChatSocialMedia

Origin

AAVE, inverse of 'No cap'. Went viral on social media.

Examples

"He said he benches 300 lbs? That's cap."

"Stop capping β€” we all know the truth."

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Idiom
Safe

Blessing in disguise

Popularity

An apparently unfortunate event that eventually leads to a good outcome.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicMotivationEveryday

Origin

18th-century literature, paraphrased from a poem by James Hervey.

Examples

"Getting fired was a blessing in disguise β€” I found my dream job."

"The flight delay was a blessing in disguise; I met my business partner."

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Slang
Safe

Stan

Popularity

An extremely dedicated or obsessive fan of a celebrity, show, or franchise.

⚑ Safe to use

SocialMediaEntertainmentGenZ

Origin

Eminem's song 'Stan' (2000) about an obsessive fan.

Examples

"I stan BTS β€” their music just speaks to me."

"The Taylor Swift stans crashed the ticketing website."

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Idiom
Safe

Spill the beans

Popularity

To reveal secret or confidential information, usually prematurely.

⚑ Safe to use

ClassicOfficeSocial

Origin

Ancient Greek voting β€” beans were used as voting tokens; spilling revealed results.

Examples

"Come on, spill the beans β€” who's the new hire?"

"She accidentally spilled the beans about the merger."

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Slang
Safe

Drip

Popularity

Stylish, fashionable appearance β€” especially with clothing and accessories.

⚑ Safe to use

FashionGenZSocialMedia

Origin

Hip-hop culture, popularized by Atlanta rappers in the 2010s.

Examples

"Check out his drip β€” those Jordans are fire."

"She always shows up with the best drip."

Watch in context

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Idiom
Safe

Back to square one

Popularity

To start over from the beginning after a setback.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicEveryday

Origin

Possibly from early board games or BBC radio football commentary.

Examples

"The client rejected the design β€” back to square one."

"My code broke everything, so it's back to square one."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Mid

Popularity

Mediocre, average, not impressive. Used as a dismissive judgment.

⚑ Use with caution

GenZGamingInternet

Origin

Internet and gaming culture. Became mainstream slang around 2021.

Examples

"The new season of that show was mid."

"Don't call my cooking mid!"

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Idiom
Safe

Hit the nail on the head

Popularity

To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicCommunication

Origin

Carpentry metaphor, used in English since the 15th century.

Examples

"You hit the nail on the head β€” that's exactly the issue."

"Her analysis hit the nail on the head."

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Slang
Caution

Based

Popularity

Agreeable, admirable, or expressing a bold truth without caring what others think.

⚑ Use with caution

InternetGenZOpinion

Origin

Rapper Lil B ('Based God'), then adopted by online communities.

Examples

"He said he doesn't use social media. Based."

"That take is extremely based."

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Idiom
Safe

Burning the midnight oil

Popularity

Working late into the night.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicSchool

Origin

Before electricity, oil lamps were used for light β€” working by oil lamp meant working very late.

Examples

"We've been burning the midnight oil to finish this report."

"Students burn the midnight oil during finals week."

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Slang
Risky

NPC

Popularity

Non-Playable Character β€” someone who seems to have no original thoughts or personality.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

GamingInternetGenZ

Origin

Video game term adapted by internet culture to mock people acting predictably.

Examples

"He just repeats everything his friends say. Total NPC behavior."

"Don't be an NPC β€” think for yourself."

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Idiom
Safe

The elephant in the room

Popularity

An obvious problem or controversial topic that everyone avoids discussing.

⚑ Safe to use

OfficeClassicSocial

Origin

First published use by Ivan Krylov in 1814 Russian fable.

Examples

"Let's address the elephant in the room β€” our budget is overspent."

"Nobody wanted to talk about the elephant in the room at dinner."

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Slang
Caution

Delulu

Popularity

Short for 'delusional' β€” having unrealistic beliefs or expectations, especially in romance.

⚑ Use with caution

GenZRomanceSocialMedia

Origin

K-pop fandom culture, adopted wider via TikTok. 'Delulu is the solulu.'

Examples

"She thinks he's going to propose after one date β€” she's delulu."

"Being a little delulu is the solulu (solution)."

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Slang
Safe

Ice

Popularity

Diamonds or flashy jewelry. Also used to describe something extremely cool.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopFashionStreet

Origin

Hip-hop culture, popularized by rappers showcasing jewelry in music videos since the 1990s.

Examples

"He pulled up with so much ice on his wrist."

"That chain is straight ice β€” must be worth a fortune."

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Slang
Safe

Whip

Popularity

A car, especially a nice or expensive one.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopStreetLifestyle

Origin

Hip-hop slang from the early 2000s, referencing steering a car like cracking a whip.

Examples

"You see his new whip? That Benz is clean."

"I just got my whip detailed β€” looks brand new."

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Slang
Caution

Finesse

Popularity

To skillfully manipulate a situation to your advantage; to smoothly get what you want.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetHustle

Origin

Street culture and hip-hop, popularized by Bruno Mars & Cardi B's 2018 hit 'Finesse'.

Examples

"He finessed his way into the VIP section."

"She finessed a free upgrade to first class."

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Slang
Safe

Bars

Popularity

Impressive rap lyrics. 'Spitting bars' means delivering great verses.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopMusicStreet

Origin

Hip-hop culture β€” refers to measures (bars) of music, used since the golden era of rap.

Examples

"That freestyle was nothing but bars."

"Kendrick was spitting bars on that new album."

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Slang
Safe

Clout

Popularity

Influence, power, or fame β€” especially on social media.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopSocialMediaStreet

Origin

Originally meant 'a heavy blow'; hip-hop culture redefined it as social influence in the 2010s.

Examples

"He's just doing it for the clout."

"She's got serious clout in the fashion industry."

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Slang
Safe

Sauce

Popularity

Style, confidence, or swagger. Having 'sauce' means you carry yourself with flair.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopFashionStreet

Origin

Hip-hop and street culture, Gucci Mane popularized the modern usage.

Examples

"He walked in with too much sauce."

"The way she dresses β€” she's got the sauce."

Watch in context

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Slang
Risky

Bando

Popularity

An abandoned house, often associated with illicit activity. Also used to describe anything run-down.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

HipHopStreetTrap

Origin

Atlanta trap culture, referenced heavily in rap by Gucci Mane, Migos, and Future.

Examples

"They shot the music video in an old bando."

"This apartment looks like a bando β€” we need to clean up."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Plug

Popularity

A connection or contact who can get you something β€” from concert tickets to rare sneakers.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetHustle

Origin

Street slang, widely adopted in hip-hop. Originally referred to a drug supplier but now used broadly.

Examples

"You need sneakers? I got the plug."

"She's the plug for festival tickets."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Vibe

Popularity

The feeling or energy of a place, person, or situation. Also means to chill and enjoy yourself.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopGenZLifestyle

Origin

Originally from 1960s counterculture, revived by hip-hop and now universal in Gen Z language.

Examples

"This playlist has such a good vibe."

"We're just vibing at the park."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Slime

Popularity

A close friend or trusted ally. Term of endearment in hip-hop circles.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetTrap

Origin

Young Thug and the YSL (Young Stoner Life) crew popularized this in Atlanta rap.

Examples

"What's good, slime? You coming through tonight?"

"That's my slime β€” we been rocking since day one."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Gas

Popularity

To hype someone up; also means something is excellent or top-quality.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopSocialMediaStreet

Origin

Hip-hop and street culture, used widely in rap and on social media.

Examples

"Stop gassing him up, his freestyle was mid."

"That track is gas β€” been on repeat all day."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Trap

Popularity

Originally a place where drugs are sold; now also a genre of hip-hop music with heavy bass and hi-hats.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopMusicTrap

Origin

Atlanta hip-hop culture. T.I.'s 2003 album 'Trap Muzik' helped define the genre.

Examples

"This beat sounds like straight trap."

"He came from the trap and made it to Billboard."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Chopper

Popularity

An extremely fast rap style, or someone who raps at lightning speed.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopMusicStreet

Origin

Midwest hip-hop, pioneered by artists like Twista, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and Tech N9ne.

Examples

"Eminem went full chopper mode on that verse."

"They call him a chopper β€” nobody can keep up with his flow."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Clap back

Popularity

To respond to criticism with a quick, sharp comeback.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopSocialMediaEntertainment

Origin

Ja Rule's 2003 song 'Clap Back'. Resurgence via Twitter and celebrity feuds.

Examples

"She clapped back at the haters with a single tweet."

"The brand's clap back went viral overnight."

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Slang
Risky

Draco

Popularity

Slang for a particular type of firearm (Draco AK pistol). Often referenced in rap lyrics.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

HipHopTrapStreet

Origin

Trap rap culture, frequently mentioned by artists like Soulja Boy and 21 Savage.

Examples

"Every trap song mentions a Draco these days."

"He referenced a Draco three times on that track."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Opp

Popularity

Short for 'opposition' β€” an enemy or rival.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetDrill

Origin

Chicago drill music scene, popularized by Chief Keef and later adopted broadly.

Examples

"Keep your eyes open β€” opps are everywhere."

"He's not my opp, we just disagree sometimes."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Spin the block

Popularity

To go back to a person or situation, whether romantic or confrontational.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopRomanceStreet

Origin

Street and drill culture, adopted on TikTok as a dating phrase meaning 'going back to an ex'.

Examples

"She's thinking about spinning the block with her ex."

"Never spin the block β€” keep moving forward."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Feature

Popularity

A guest appearance on a song. 'Getting a feature' means collaborating with another artist.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopMusicIndustry

Origin

Music industry term, essential in hip-hop culture where collaborations drive hits.

Examples

"That Drake feature made the song blow up."

"She's been trying to get a feature with SZA."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Bodies

Popularity

To dominate or destroy someone in a competition, rap battle, or argument.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopMusicCompetition

Origin

Battle rap culture, meaning to lyrically destroy your opponent.

Examples

"Kendrick bodied that diss track β€” nobody can respond."

"She bodied that debate β€” the other team had nothing."

Watch in context

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Slang
Caution

Racks

Popularity

Stacks of money, typically referring to thousands of dollars.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetFinance

Origin

Hip-hop culture β€” a 'rack' is $1,000 because of how bills stack. YC's 2010 hit 'Racks' popularized it.

Examples

"He dropped racks on that new watch."

"She's been stacking racks from her side hustle."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Bucket

Popularity

A made basket in basketball. A 'bucket getter' is a reliable scorer.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball culture β€” the hoop was originally a peach bucket. Now used in NBA commentary and fan culture.

Examples

"KD is a walking bucket β€” can't be guarded."

"He got a bucket at the buzzer to win the game."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Ankle breaker

Popularity

A crossover dribble so devastating that the defender stumbles or falls.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA culture β€” Allen Iverson's crossover on Michael Jordan in 1997 became the iconic example.

Examples

"Kyrie just hit him with an ankle breaker!"

"That crossover was a certified ankle breaker."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Splash

Popularity

A perfectly made three-point shot that swishes through the net.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Named after the 'Splash Brothers' β€” Steph Curry and Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors.

Examples

"Steph pulled up from 30 feet β€” splash!"

"He's been splashing threes all night."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

And one

Popularity

When a player makes a basket while being fouled and earns a free throw. Also used as an exclamation.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball term β€” the made basket counts plus one free throw attempt.

Examples

"He drove through three defenders β€” AND ONE!"

"She finished the layup through contact β€” and one!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Poster

Popularity

A powerful dunk over a defender so impressive it could be a poster. 'Posterized' means being dunked on.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA culture β€” from literal posters of slam dunks sold in the '90s and 2000s.

Examples

"LeBron just postered him! That's going on SportsCenter."

"He got posterized so bad the crowd went silent."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Heat check

Popularity

When a player takes an extra-difficult shot to test if their hot streak continues.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA commentary term β€” a player who's on fire takes a 'heat check' shot.

Examples

"He hit five in a row, so the next one's a heat check."

"That half-court attempt was a classic heat check."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Hooper

Popularity

Someone who plays basketball well. A real hooper has serious skills.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball culture β€” 'hoop' as slang for playing basketball, extended to 'hooper' as a skilled player.

Examples

"Don't let the suit fool you β€” he's a hooper."

"She's a legit hooper, played D1 in college."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Brick

Popularity

A badly missed shot that clanks off the rim or backboard. 'Bricking' means shooting terribly.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball slang β€” the ball hitting the rim sounds like a brick. Used since at least the 1960s.

Examples

"He bricked three free throws in a row."

"That shot was a straight brick β€” didn't even hit the rim."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Clutch

Popularity

Performing exceptionally well under pressure, especially in critical moments.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsGenZ

Origin

Sports culture, especially NBA β€” describes players who deliver in high-pressure situations.

Examples

"Kobe was the most clutch player ever."

"That save was clutch β€” you saved the whole project."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Dawg in him

Popularity

Having intense competitive spirit and toughness. 'He got that dawg in him' means someone is a fierce competitor.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsSocialMedia

Origin

NBA Twitter/X culture, became a viral meme and genuine compliment for competitive players.

Examples

"Jimmy Butler in the playoffs β€” he got that dawg in him."

"She studied for 12 hours straight. She got that dawg in her."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Cooked

Popularity

To be completely outplayed or dominated. Also means something is done/finished.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsGaming

Origin

NBA and gaming culture β€” 'cooking' someone means dominating them.

Examples

"Luka cooked the entire defense last night."

"If the professor sees this essay, I'm cooked."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Sixth man

Popularity

The best substitute player on a basketball team; also used to describe a reliable backup in any situation.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA β€” the 'Sixth Man of the Year' award recognizes the best bench player.

Examples

"He's the sixth man of our study group β€” always comes through."

"Every championship team needs a strong sixth man."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Swish

Popularity

A perfect shot that goes through the net without touching the rim.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball β€” the sound the net makes when the ball passes through cleanly.

Examples

"Nothing but net β€” swish!"

"She hit the three-pointer, pure swish."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Dame Time

Popularity

The moment when a star player takes over in crunch time. Originally for Damian Lillard's clutch performances.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Named after Damian Lillard's iconic buzzer-beaters, especially the 2019 series-winner vs OKC.

Examples

"It's Dame Time β€” watch him take over in the fourth quarter."

"Whenever the pressure's on, it's Dame Time."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Boards

Popularity

Rebounds in basketball. 'Crashing the boards' means aggressively pursuing rebounds.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball term β€” the backboard is shortened to 'board', rebounds become 'boards'.

Examples

"He grabbed 15 boards tonight β€” dominated the glass."

"If we crash the boards, we win this game."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Bunnies

Popularity

Vertical leap or hops. 'Got bunnies' means someone can jump extremely high.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball culture β€” comparing a player's jumping ability to a rabbit.

Examples

"Ja Morant got bunnies β€” his dunks are insane."

"You need bunnies to play above the rim like that."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Flop

Popularity

To exaggerate or fake contact to draw a foul. Also used broadly to mean failing spectacularly.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsSocialMedia

Origin

NBA and soccer (football) culture β€” players dramatically falling to deceive referees.

Examples

"That was such a flop β€” nobody even touched him."

"The movie was a box office flop."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Lob city

Popularity

A team or situation involving spectacular alley-oop dunks. Used broadly for anything perfectly set up.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Named after the 2011–14 LA Clippers with Chris Paul and Blake Griffin's alley-oop connection.

Examples

"That pass-to-dunk combo was straight Lob City."

"He set it up perfectly β€” lob city!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Mamba mentality

Popularity

An obsessive, relentless work ethic and competitive drive.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsMotivation

Origin

Coined by Kobe Bryant ('Black Mamba'). Became a cultural philosophy after his passing in 2020.

Examples

"Studying at 4 AM? That's mamba mentality."

"She approached the project with mamba mentality."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Dime

Popularity

A perfect assist in basketball. Also used to describe an extremely attractive person (a perfect 10).

⚑ Use with caution

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Basketball β€” a dime is a '10-cent' or perfect pass. The attractiveness meaning also refers to a '10'.

Examples

"Chris Paul just dropped a dime for the easy slam."

"That no-look pass was a dime."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Garbage time

Popularity

The end of a game when the outcome is already decided, so bench players get minutes.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA and football commentator term β€” the remaining time is 'garbage' because it doesn't matter.

Examples

"They're up by 40 β€” this is garbage time now."

"He only scored 20 points, but most came in garbage time."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Lockdown

Popularity

Elite defensive ability. A 'lockdown defender' completely shuts down the opposing player.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA culture β€” locking down an opponent means they can't score or perform.

Examples

"Kawhi is a lockdown defender β€” nobody scores on him."

"She played lockdown defense the entire second half."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Shimmy

Popularity

A celebratory shoulder shake after making a big play, especially a three-pointer.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

Steph Curry's iconic celebration after hitting deep threes, now copied globally.

Examples

"Steph hit the three and did the shimmy β€” game over."

"He pulled up from the logo and gave them the shimmy."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Stat padder

Popularity

A player accused of inflating their statistics without actually contributing to winning.

⚑ Use with caution

NBASportsSocialMedia

Origin

Sports fan culture on Twitter/Reddit. Russell Westbrook often faced this criticism.

Examples

"He's a stat padder β€” triple doubles but his team always loses."

"Those numbers look good but it's just stat padding."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Slay boots

Popularity

An emphatic version of 'slay'. Used to hype someone up to the max.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok and stan Twitter culture, evolved from 'slay' with added emphasis in 2023.

Examples

"She walked in looking like that? Slay boots!"

"You got the job?! SLAY BOOTS!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Understood the assignment

Popularity

Someone who perfectly executed what was expected, especially in fashion or performance.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokFashion

Origin

TikTok and Twitter β€” used for red carpet looks and standout performances.

Examples

"Zendaya at the Met Gala? She understood the assignment."

"The new intern understood the assignment on day one."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Roman Empire

Popularity

Something you think about way too often. 'What's your Roman Empire?' asks what topic lives in your head.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

TikTok trend from 2023 β€” women asked men how often they think about the Roman Empire.

Examples

"The 2016 NBA Finals is my Roman Empire."

"How often do you think about the Roman Empire?"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Ate that up

Popularity

Performed or did something so well that it was absolutely perfect. Similar to 'ate and left no crumbs'.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok and stan culture, intensified version of the existing 'ate' compliment.

Examples

"She ate that dance routine up β€” nobody else comes close."

"He really ate that presentation up."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Serving

Popularity

Delivering an outstanding look, performance, or energy. 'Serving face' means looking flawless.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSFashionTikTok

Origin

Drag and ballroom culture, gone mainstream via TikTok and Instagram.

Examples

"She's serving looks at this fashion show."

"He's been serving face all night β€” camera loves him."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Era

Popularity

A phase or period in someone's life defined by a certain vibe or behavior. 'I'm in my villain era.'

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok trend from 2022-23 β€” inspired by Taylor Swift's 'Eras Tour' and self-identity culture.

Examples

"I'm in my gym era β€” haven't missed a day in months."

"She's in her healing era right now."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Caught in 4K

Popularity

Caught red-handed with undeniable evidence, often implying video proof.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokInternet

Origin

Internet and TikTok culture β€” '4K' references high-definition video capturing every detail.

Examples

"He denied it, but she caught him in 4K on camera."

"You liked that tweet? Caught in 4K!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Ratio

Popularity

When a reply gets more likes than the original post, implying the original take was bad.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTwitterInternet

Origin

Twitter culture β€” a 'ratio' became a way to publicly embarrass bad takes.

Examples

"His hot take got ratioed instantly."

"Ratio + L + didn't ask."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Ate the mic

Popularity

Delivered an incredible vocal performance, as if consuming the microphone with pure energy.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSMusicTikTok

Origin

TikTok music reaction culture, used to praise standout live performances.

Examples

"Adele ate the mic at that concert β€” goosebumps."

"She literally ate the mic during karaoke."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Unalive

Popularity

A euphemism used on TikTok to avoid content moderation when discussing serious topics.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokInternet

Origin

TikTok β€” creators use it to bypass algorithm censorship of sensitive words.

Examples

"They had to use 'unalive' because TikTok flags the real word."

"The algorithm forces us to say 'unalive' β€” it's bizarre."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Pick me

Popularity

Someone who acts differently to gain approval from a particular group, especially the opposite gender.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok and feminist discourse β€” calling out performative behavior for male attention.

Examples

"She's such a pick me β€” always putting other women down."

"Don't be a pick me, just be yourself."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

POV

Popularity

Point of View β€” used to frame a scenario in a video or comment. Often used incorrectly as 'check out this scene'.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokYouTube

Origin

TikTok and YouTube β€” became a format for storytelling and comedy videos.

Examples

"POV: You're the only one who studied for the exam."

"POV: Your mom finds your report card."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

CEO of

Popularity

Being the absolute best at something, as if you run the company of that trait.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok comments section β€” used to crown someone as the undisputed leader of a skill or trait.

Examples

"She's the CEO of smooth transitions in her edits."

"He's the CEO of awkward silence."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Cheugy

Popularity

Outdated, trying too hard, or no longer trendy. The opposite of being cool or current.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokFashion

Origin

TikTok β€” coined by Gen Z to describe aesthetics popular with millennials that feel outdated.

Examples

"Live, Laugh, Love signs are so cheugy."

"Skinny jeans? That's cheugy now."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Main character syndrome

Popularity

When someone acts like the world revolves around them, making every situation about themselves.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokInternet

Origin

TikTok β€” evolved from 'main character energy' to describe narcissistic behavior on social media.

Examples

"She made someone else's birthday about herself β€” main character syndrome."

"He posted a 10-part story about his airport delay. Main character syndrome."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

No thoughts, just vibes

Popularity

Being in a blissfully empty-minded, carefree state. Embracing peace over anxiety.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok and Twitter meme culture, became a reaction image and mood descriptor.

Examples

"Beach day β€” no thoughts, just vibes."

"How am I feeling about finals? No thoughts, just vibes."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Aura points

Popularity

A humorous scoring system for how cool or embarrassing someone's actions are. Gain or lose aura based on behavior.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

TikTok trend from 2024 β€” people narrate gaining or losing invisible 'aura points' in daily life.

Examples

"He tripped in front of his crush β€” minus 500 aura points."

"She parallel parked on the first try β€” plus 1000 aura points."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Very demure, very mindful

Popularity

Acting composed, modest, and considerate. Often used ironically or as emphasis.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

TikTok creator Jools Lebron's viral 2024 videos about being 'demure' at work.

Examples

"I ate my lunch quietly at my desk. Very demure, very mindful."

"The way she handled that situation β€” very demure."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Yap

Popularity

To talk excessively or ramble. A 'yapper' is someone who won't stop talking.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

TikTok and Gen Z slang β€” evolved from the older meaning of a small dog barking nonstop.

Examples

"He's been yapping for 20 minutes straight."

"Sorry for yapping β€” I'll get to the point."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Chronically online

Popularity

Spending so much time on the internet that your worldview is shaped by online culture rather than reality.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSInternetGenZ

Origin

Twitter and TikTok discourse β€” used to call out people whose references are purely digital.

Examples

"Only someone chronically online would understand that reference."

"You need to go outside β€” you're chronically online."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

FYP

Popularity

For You Page β€” TikTok's personalized content feed. Being on someone's FYP means going viral.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokSocialMedia

Origin

TikTok β€” the algorithmic main feed where curated content appears.

Examples

"This video just blew up on my FYP."

"Use the right hashtags if you want to get on the FYP."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Glazing

Popularity

Excessively praising or dickriding someone, especially a celebrity or influencer.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSYouTubeGaming

Origin

YouTube and TikTok comment culture β€” emerged heavily around 2023 in gaming and music communities.

Examples

"The comments are glazing Ronaldo again."

"Stop glazing β€” the album wasn't even that good."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Risky

Edging

Popularity

In internet slang, building up anticipation or almost reaching a climactic moment but delaying it.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

TikTok and YouTube meme culture β€” repurposed as a comedic description for suspenseful content.

Examples

"That plot twist was edging us for three episodes."

"This video is edging me β€” just show the result already!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Sigma

Popularity

A lone wolf personality type β€” someone who succeeds outside of social hierarchies. Often used ironically.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokInternet

Origin

Manosphere culture, turned into a TikTok meme often paired with Patrick Bateman clips.

Examples

"He ate lunch alone by choice β€” sigma male grindset."

"The sigma stare meme is everywhere on TikTok."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Skibidi

Popularity

Originally from a YouTube series; now used as a nonsense word or adjective meaning wild, crazy, or absurd.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSYouTubeViral

Origin

DaFuq!?Boom!'s 'Skibidi Toilet' YouTube series (2023), became Gen Alpha/Gen Z viral slang.

Examples

"That move was so skibidi β€” nobody expected it."

"The kids keep saying 'skibidi' and I have no idea what it means."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Risky

Gyatt

Popularity

An exclamation of surprise or admiration, especially regarding an attractive physique.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

SNSTikTokYouTube

Origin

Twitch streamer YourRAGE coined it; went viral on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

Examples

"He saw her walk by and just said 'GYATT'."

"Every comment section is just 'gyatt' now."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Mewing

Popularity

A tongue posture technique claimed to improve jawline. Also a meme about silently focusing on self-improvement.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

Named after Dr. John Mew. Became a massive TikTok meme/trend in 2023-24.

Examples

"Why is he so quiet? He's mewing."

"The 'are you mewing?' meme is in every comment section."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Fanum tax

Popularity

Taking a portion of someone's food without asking. Named after streamer Fanum's habit.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSYouTubeViral

Origin

Twitch/YouTube streamer Fanum would regularly steal bites of food from AMP members.

Examples

"Can I get a Fanum tax on those fries?"

"He always hits you with the Fanum tax at lunch."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Risky

Devious lick

Popularity

A petty theft or act of mischief, often done for clout and posted on TikTok.

⚑ Risky β€” know your audience

SNSTikTokViral

Origin

TikTok trend from 2021 where students stole items from school and posted 'devious lick' videos.

Examples

"Someone hit a devious lick on the school bathroom soap dispenser."

"TikTok banned devious lick content after schools complained."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Deadass

Popularity

Completely serious. New York slang for 'I'm not joking'.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetNYC

Origin

New York City hip-hop culture, Timberland boots and deadass became iconic NYC identifiers.

Examples

"I'm deadass moving to Japan next year."

"Deadass, that was the best concert I've ever been to."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Glow up

Popularity

A dramatic positive transformation in appearance, confidence, or life circumstances.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopSocialMediaGenZ

Origin

AAVE and social media β€” 'glow up' challenges became viral on YouTube and TikTok.

Examples

"Her glow up from high school is unreal."

"This city had a major glow up β€” it looks amazing now."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Trippin

Popularity

Being irrational, overreacting, or acting crazy.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetCasual

Origin

AAVE, widely used in hip-hop since the '90s. Derived from the drug-related meaning of 'tripping'.

Examples

"You're trippin if you think I'm paying for that."

"Don't trip β€” everything's gonna work out."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Pull up

Popularity

To arrive somewhere. Also an invitation: 'Pull up' means 'Come through' or 'Show up'.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopStreetCasual

Origin

Hip-hop and car culture β€” pulling up to a location became slang for arriving.

Examples

"Pull up to the party tonight β€” it's gonna be lit."

"He pulled up in a brand new Escalade."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

On God

Popularity

An emphatic way of saying 'I swear to God' or 'That is 100% true'.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetGenZ

Origin

AAVE and hip-hop culture, used heavily in rap lyrics and conversations.

Examples

"On God, that was the hardest verse this year."

"I didn't eat your leftovers, on God."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Slide

Popularity

To smoothly go to a place or event. 'Let's slide' means 'Let's go'. Can also mean to confront someone.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopStreetGenZ

Origin

Hip-hop and street culture β€” Calvin Harris & Frank Ocean's 'Slide' (2017) popularized the chill meaning.

Examples

"Let's slide to the mall real quick."

"We about to slide on them in the second half."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Bop

Popularity

A really catchy and enjoyable song. 'It's a bop' means the track is great.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopMusicSocialMedia

Origin

Music culture β€” 'bop' originally meant a style of jazz, now means any great song.

Examples

"That new Doja Cat song is a bop."

"We played nothing but bops at the party."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Idiom
Safe

On repeat

Popularity

Listening to or experiencing something obsessively over and over.

⚑ Safe to use

MusicSocialMediaEveryday

Origin

Music culture β€” from the repeat button on music players, now used broadly.

Examples

"This album has been on repeat since it dropped."

"That scene from the movie is on repeat in my brain."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Woke

Popularity

Being aware of social injustice and systemic issues. Can be used positively or dismissively.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopSocialMediaCulture

Origin

AAVE β€” 'stay woke' was used during the Civil Rights era. Resurged with BLM movement.

Examples

"She's really woke about environmental issues."

"Some people use 'woke' as an insult now."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Lit

Popularity

Exciting, amazing, or wildly fun. A party that's 'lit' is incredibly energetic.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopGenZCasual

Origin

AAVE and hip-hop culture β€” Travis Scott's music helped make 'lit' mainstream around 2015.

Examples

"Last night's concert was lit!"

"This party is about to be so lit."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Finna

Popularity

Contraction of 'fixing to' β€” meaning 'about to' or 'going to'.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopStreetGenZ

Origin

Southern AAVE, widely used in hip-hop lyrics and now in general Gen Z speech.

Examples

"I'm finna head out β€” see you later."

"She's finna drop the hottest album of the year."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Lewk

Popularity

A distinctive, carefully curated outfit or style. More intentional than just a 'look'.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSFashionTikTok

Origin

Fashion and drag culture, popularized on Instagram and TikTok fashion content.

Examples

"That Met Gala lewk was iconic."

"She always comes through with the lewk."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Green flag

Popularity

A positive sign in a relationship or situation, the opposite of a red flag.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSRomanceTikTok

Origin

TikTok dating discourse β€” emerged as the optimistic counter to 'red flag' culture.

Examples

"He remembers small details β€” major green flag."

"A company that respects work-life balance? Green flag."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Mogging

Popularity

Outshining or dominating someone purely by your presence, looks, or confidence.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSTikTokInternet

Origin

Bodybuilding forums, then spread to TikTok where 'mogging' became a meme about dominance hierarchies.

Examples

"He walked into the room and mogged everyone."

"She showed up and was mogging all the other contestants."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Tweaking

Popularity

Acting erratically, behaving strangely, or overreacting wildly.

⚑ Use with caution

HipHopGenZStreet

Origin

AAVE and hip-hop β€” originally related to drug use, now broadly means acting crazy.

Examples

"He's tweaking if he thinks that answer is right."

"Why is the app tweaking again?"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Fits go hard

Popularity

'Fit' is short for outfit. 'Goes hard' means it's impressively stylish or powerful.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSFashionTikTok

Origin

Fashion TikTok and Instagram β€” 'fit check' culture made this phrase ubiquitous.

Examples

"His fit goes hard β€” the color coordination is perfect."

"Fit check! This one goes hard."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Slaps

Popularity

Describes music (or food) that is incredibly good. 'This song slaps' means it's excellent.

⚑ Safe to use

HipHopMusicGenZ

Origin

Bay Area hip-hop culture β€” used since the hyphy movement. Now mainstream on social media.

Examples

"This beat slaps so hard β€” who produced it?"

"Your mom's cooking slaps every single time."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Washed

Popularity

Past one's prime; no longer performing at a high level. Often said about aging athletes.

⚑ Use with caution

NBASportsSocialMedia

Origin

Sports culture, especially NBA debates about aging superstars on Twitter/X.

Examples

"People said LeBron was washed β€” then he dropped 40."

"That phone is washed; time for an upgrade."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Superteam

Popularity

A basketball team stacked with multiple superstars who joined forces to win a championship.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsBasketball

Origin

NBA culture β€” became a hot term after LeBron, Wade, and Bosh formed the 2010 Miami Heat.

Examples

"The 2017 Warriors were the ultimate superteam."

"Building a superteam doesn't guarantee chemistry."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Built different

Popularity

Having an exceptional, almost superhuman quality that sets someone apart from everyone else.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsGenZ

Origin

NBA and sports culture β€” praise for elite athletes, then adopted broadly on social media.

Examples

"Giannis is built different β€” can't stop him in transition."

"She runs a marathon and goes to work after? Built different."

Watch in context

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Slang
Safe

Franchise player

Popularity

The cornerstone player a team is built around. Used broadly for anyone who's the key person in any group.

⚑ Safe to use

NBASportsOffice

Origin

Sports management term β€” the most valuable, irreplaceable team member.

Examples

"She's the franchise player of our department β€” we can't lose her."

"Every dynasty needs a franchise player."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Dropped a dub

Popularity

Got a win. 'Dub' is short for 'W' (win). 'Dropping dubs' means winning consistently.

⚑ Safe to use

SportsGamingGenZ

Origin

Gaming and sports culture β€” 'W' became 'dub-yuh' became 'dub'.

Examples

"We dropped a dub in overtime β€” what a game!"

"Just dropped a dub on my final exam."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Core

Popularity

A suffix used to describe a specific aesthetic. 'Cottagecore', 'goblincore', 'normcore', etc.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokFashion

Origin

Tumblr and TikTok aesthetic culture β€” categorizing styles and vibes into '-core' movements.

Examples

"Her room is total cottagecore β€” plants everywhere."

"That outfit is giving clean girl core."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Situationship

Popularity

A romantic relationship that has no clear label or commitment. More than friends, less than partners.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSRomanceGenZ

Origin

Dating culture and TikTok β€” became the defining term for Gen Z ambiguous relationships.

Examples

"We're not dating β€” it's a situationship."

"Situationships are the worst β€” just define the relationship!"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Safe

Soft launch

Popularity

Subtly revealing a new relationship on social media without showing the partner's face.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSRomanceTikTok

Origin

Instagram and TikTok dating culture β€” posting just a hand, silhouette, or shadow.

Examples

"She soft-launched her boyfriend with a hand pic."

"Is that a soft launch? Who's that shadow in your story?"

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Slang
Caution

Ong

Popularity

Abbreviation of 'On God' β€” used in text to emphasize something is absolutely true.

⚑ Use with caution

SNSChatGenZ

Origin

Text and social media shorthand for 'On God', evolved from hip-hop to Gen Z texting culture.

Examples

"That test was insane ong."

"Ong this is the best show I've ever watched."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available

Idiom
Safe

Ate that

Popularity

Absolutely crushed it. Used to compliment a stellar performance, outfit, or accomplishment.

⚑ Safe to use

SNSTikTokGenZ

Origin

Stan Twitter and TikTok culture β€” evolved from drag/ballroom 'eat it up'.

Examples

"She really ate that dance challenge."

"The entire squad ate that group photo β€” everyone looked amazing."

Watch in context

YouTube clip available