Gen Z Slang Part 2: Unlocking the Latest Lingo

In Part 1 of our Gen Z slang series, we introduced some go-to phrases that shape how Gen Z communicates daily. Now, in Part 2, we’re taking it a step further. Gen Z’s language is fast-evolving—driven by memes, pop culture, and online trends. So, whether you're keeping up or catching up, this extended list of slang terms will help you stay in the loop.

Style & Vibes: Slang That Sets the Tone

These words reflect how Gen Z expresses fashion, energy, and personal flair.

1. Drip

Meaning: Stylish or fashionable.
Example: "Check out his outfit; it’s pure drip!"
Used to hype someone’s look, especially when it’s next-level stylish.

2. It’s Giving

Meaning: Describes the energy, vibe, or mood something radiates.
Example: "That outfit? It’s giving princess vibes!"
Often followed by what it “gives,” like confidence, nostalgia, or main character energy.

3. Glow Up

Meaning: A major transformation or improvement, typically in appearance or confidence.
Example: "You’ve had a glow up since high school!"
Used to celebrate personal growth—inside or out.

4. Slay

Meaning: To perform impressively or look incredible.
Example: "She slayed that presentation!"
A high compliment for both actions and aesthetics.

Reactions & Emotions: Saying More with Less

Next, let’s look at how Gen Z reacts—whether they’re impressed, annoyed, or just joking around.

5. Deadass

Meaning: Completely serious or honest.
Example: "Deadass, I’m not even kidding."
Adds weight to a statement—used when they really mean it.

6. Mid

Meaning: Average, underwhelming, or just okay.
Example: "That movie was mid."
Used to express disappointment or a lack of excitement.

7. Bussin

Meaning: Amazing or delicious.
Example: "This burger is bussin’!"
Originally for food, but now used more broadly for anything great.

8. Salty

Meaning: Bitter, annoyed, or frustrated.
Example: "She was salty about losing."
Often used when someone is a little too upset over something minor.

9. Sksksk

Meaning: An excited, playful reaction (like LOL).
Example: "That was so cute, sksksk!"
Popularized by online fandoms; used mostly for fun or giggles.

Online Culture: Born from the Internet

Many Gen Z terms come directly from digital platforms like TikTok and Twitter.

10. Ratio

Meaning: A post with more replies than likes—usually a bad sign.
Example: "That tweet got ratioed!"
Implied that the post was controversial or unpopular.

11. FYP (For You Page)

Meaning: TikTok’s main feed where curated content appears.
Example: "This video hit my FYP—it’s trending!"
Now shorthand for anything viral or popular online.

12. Vibe Check

Meaning: A casual assessment of mood or energy.
Example: "You good? Vibe check!"
Used in social settings to gauge someone’s mental state—or the general “feel” of a room.

Friendships & Fan Culture

Here are terms Gen Z uses to talk about relationships, support, and admiration.

13. Fam

Meaning: Close friends or chosen family.
Example: "I’m chillin' with the fam."
Not always literal family—more about loyalty and closeness.

14. Stan

Meaning: To strongly support or be a fan of someone.
Example: "I stan this artist!"
Positive fandom term derived from Eminem’s song “Stan.”

15. Simp

Meaning: Someone who does too much for a crush.
Example: "He’s simping hard."
Sometimes lighthearted, sometimes critical—context matters.

Calling It Out: Terms That Set Boundaries

Gen Z doesn’t hold back when calling out bad behavior or cringeworthy trends.

16. Cheugy

Meaning: Outdated or trying too hard to be trendy.
Example: "That’s so cheugy."
Used to roast fashion choices or trends that have overstayed their welcome.

17. Cancelled

Meaning: No longer supported due to problematic actions.
Example: "He got cancelled after that post."
Often used in online accountability culture.

18. Flex

Meaning: To show off or brag.
Example: "She’s always flexing her new car."
Can be playful or judgmental—tone is everything.

19. No Cap

Meaning: No lie; total honesty.
Example: "That was the best day ever—no cap!"
Used to emphasize truthfulness.

20. Touch Grass

Meaning: A humorous way to say someone needs to log off.
Example: "You’ve been online too long. Go touch grass!"
A reminder to connect with the real world and take a break from screens.

Why Gen Z Slang Matters

Gen Z slang isn’t just trendy, it’s meaningful. It reflects a generation raised on digital platforms, shaped by rapid information, and driven by creativity and identity. These words offer insight into their values, humor, and social codes.

Tips for Using Gen Z Slang

To avoid sounding out of place, keep these quick tips in mind:

• Know the Context: Slang terms work best when used naturally and in the right situations.

• Less Is More: Sprinkle slang into conversation instead of overloading it.

• Stay Current: Gen Z language evolves quickly, so stay updated.

---

Final Thoughts

From “drip” to “touch grass,” Gen Z continues to redefine how we connect through language. Whether you're part of the generation or just trying to better understand it, mastering this slang will boost your cultural fluency—and maybe even your cool factor.