Language evolves rapidly, and each year brings a fresh wave of slang that shapes how we communicate. Here are the top 20 slang terms of 2024, complete with definitions and a brief explanation of their cultural context.
1. Rizz
Definition: The ability to charm or flirt effectively.
Originating from TikTok, “rizz” gained widespread use as a shorthand for charisma, particularly in romantic or social situations. “He’s got that rizz” means someone has undeniable charm.
2. Goblin Mode
Definition: Embracing chaotic, messy, or unfiltered behavior.
Popularized by memes, “goblin mode” celebrates unapologetic laziness or self-indulgence, often a pushback against hustle culture.
3. Mid
Definition: Mediocre or average.
Originally used in critiques, calling something “mid” signals that it’s unimpressive or fails to stand out. “That movie was so mid” is a common usage.
4. Slaps
Definition: Something exceptionally good or enjoyable.
Mostly used in reference to music, “this song slaps” means it’s a banger. The term has extended to other contexts, like food or experiences.
5. Iykyk
Definition: Acronym for “If you know, you know.”
“Iykyk” implies an insider understanding of something niche, usually shared through social media posts or captions.
6. No Cap
Definition: Telling the truth; being honest.
“No cap” is often paired with statements to emphasize authenticity. For example, “That’s the best pizza spot in town, no cap.”
7. Situationship
Definition: A romantic relationship without clear labels.
A term born from modern dating dynamics, “situationship” captures the gray area between casual and committed relationships.
8. Cheugy
Definition: Outdated or trying too hard to be trendy.
Often used to describe millennial trends or behaviors, “cheugy” labels things like overly scripted Instagram captions as passé.
9. Drip
Definition: Stylish or high-quality clothing and accessories.
“Drip” refers to an individual’s fashion sense. Compliments like “Check out that drip” praise someone’s outfit.
10. Bet
Definition: A term of agreement or acknowledgment.
“Bet” is often used to confirm plans or show understanding. For instance, “See you at 7?” “Bet.”
11. Ratioed
Definition: When a reply or comment receives more likes than the original post.
Being “ratioed” on social media often implies that the original statement was unpopular or poorly received.
12. Main Character Energy
Definition: Acting with confidence as if you’re the center of attention.
This term celebrates self-assuredness and individuality, encouraging people to embrace their own narrative.
13. Snack
Definition: A person who is attractive or appealing.
Calling someone a “snack” is a playful way to compliment their looks, often with flirtatious undertones.
14. Hits Different
Definition: Something that feels uniquely impactful or emotional.
Borrowed from song lyrics, “hits different” describes experiences or memories with a distinct emotional resonance.
15. Secure the Bag
Definition: To achieve success or financial gain.
Often used in motivational contexts, “secure the bag” emphasizes the importance of hard work and ambition.
16. Stan
Definition: A devoted fan or supporter.
Derived from Eminem’s song “Stan,” the term is now a mainstream way to express fandom or admiration.
17. Savage
Definition: Bold, unapologetic, or impressive behavior.
“Savage” is often used to praise someone for their fearless or clever actions, as in “That comeback was savage.”
18. Flex
Definition: To show off.
“Flexing” can be both literal and ironic, referring to someone displaying their achievements, possessions, or skills.
19. Deadass
Definition: Completely serious or truthful.
Primarily used in New York slang, “deadass” reinforces sincerity, as in “I’m deadass about going to the gym every day.”
20. Yeet
Definition: To throw something with force or enthusiasm; also an exclamation of excitement.
“Yeet” continues to thrive as a versatile term, whether for expressing joy or describing physical actions, such as “I yeeted the ball across the field.”
Stay tuned for how these terms evolve and influence language further in the year ahead. From casual chats to viral posts, these words are shaping conversations across generations.
More slang terms:
Bet
In its non-abbreviated form, "bet" is typically used as an all-purpose affirmative, as in "you bet" or "bet on it."
Frat Boy
A term that literally means any boy who has joined a fraternity. More likely, the term indicates someone who exemplifies stereotypical bro-culture via their looks and behavior.
XOXO
An informal slang term meaning "hugs & kisses" at the end of a missive between two loved ones. The O's mean hugs, while the X's symbolize kisses.
Rizz
A shortened form of the word "charisma" that refers to one's flirtation abilities.
And I oop
A viral phrase from a video by Drag Queen Jasmine Masters. In the video, Masters accidentally hits their groin and says in surprise "And I oop..." The phrase has become a slang response for any shocking or surprising event.
Skibidi Toilet
A reference to a bizarre series of YouTube videos involving 3D animated heads that pop out of toilets, titled "Skibidi Toilet."
Giga Chad
The ultimate meme of masculinity, referring to a man who is so manly that his power surpasses all others. Can be used ironically or literally depending on context.
Drip
Clothes, specifically an entire outfit that reflects well upon the wearer (as in, they are dripping with style).
Bougie
A word to describe anything high class or rich in taste. Derived from the French "bourgeoisie."
Preppy
An adjective referring to the privileged prep-school / rich kid aesthetic, or a noun for the prep-school rich kid themselves.
Situationship
A recurring hookup, or a romantic relationship that has not been officially declared/defined.
