How to decode 27 common Gen Z slang words

Have you ever heard a group of Gen Z-ers talking and thought, “Wait, what does that word even mean?” If so, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Just like the generations before them, Gen Z uses specific slang words when communicating (some of those slang words are now new words in the dictionary). If you aren’t in that generation, though, it can be tough to figure out what those words actually mean. No worries – we’ve decoded some of the most common Gen Z slang terms to keep you in the know.

Meaning: A word to describe someone who likes mainstream things and is considered unoriginal.

Example: “His taste in music is pretty basic.”

Meaning: A term for agreement or approval.

Example: “Are we still on for Saturday night?” “Bet.”

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Meaning: Think of it as an emphasis on the word “yikes” – it’s something that’s really embarrassing, disturbing, or shocking.

Example: “My mum called me 30 times after I stayed out late – big yikes.”

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Meaning: A really good song or beat.

Example: “Listen to this new song – it’s a bop.”

Meaning: To stop supporting something or someone by doing a number of things, including boycotting their work, products, or unfollowing on social media.

Example: “I can’t believe that company was caught dumping waste in the river – it’s cancelled.”

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Meaning: Something that’s considered false or an outright lie. It’s most commonly used in the phrase “no cap,” which means “no lie.”

Example: “That was the best pizza I’ve ever had – no cap.”

Meaning: To start a fight. It’s typically used in a confrontational matter.

Example: “Get out of my way – you don’t want to catch these hands.”

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Meaning: To criticise or make fun of something. Many people equate dragging someone to roasting someone.

Example: “Why are you dragging me so hard today?”

Meaning: A cool sense of style. It can refer to clothes or the way someone carries themselves.

Example: “Her drip is iconic.”

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