Gen Z Slang – 45 Popular Gen Z Slangs And Acronyms

Imagine living in a Gen Z dominant generation and not knowing some of their slang.

Effective communication only starts when there is a mutual understanding from both parties, but what happens when you do not know some of the messages being communicated to you?

It would leave you embarrassed, which isn’t a nice experience at this age.

To efficiently communicate, you must be conversant with the terms unique to the generation. Gen Z is currently the leading generation with its stereotypes and language.

This is why you need to know this language. We will examine some of the Slang unique to the Gen Z generation.

Popular Gen Z Slangs And Acronyms

Here are some of the popular Gen Z slang you should know. They include the following:

1. AMA – AMA stands for “Ask me anything”. This is used for open, candid discussions, allowing the audience to gain insights directly from the source. For example, The AMA section took the most time at the
2. Ate – Ate is a popular slang term commonly used to express admiration or praise for someone who has excelled at something. It is frequently used in fashion, music, or performance. For example, Kelly’s apparel ate the dress.
3. ASL – The acronym ASL stands for ” As Hell”. This is used to describe an exaggerated idea or concept you acknowledge. For example, Bob’s girlfriend is very beautiful ASL.
4. Bougie/ Boujee – Bougie/ Boujee is a term used to describe or address someone who is fancy and likes exaggerated lives. They sometimes appear to live fake lives. For example, Steve has a bougie girlfriend.
5. Bae – Bae is a term used to describe or address one’s boyfriend or girlfriend.
6. Cap /No Cap – Cap is a term used to describe when something is a lie, while no cap says the opposite.
7. Cheugy – Cheugy is a word used to describe a once fashionable style that is outdated and appears to be doing too much to gain attention. For example, Rose’s dress sense is cheugy.
8. Cringe – Cringe is a word used to describe an embarrassing or awkward moment. For example, i feel cringed when i watch kissing scenes in movies.
9. CEO – CEO is a slang term for someone who has gained mastery in a particular discipline. For example, Mark is the CEO of Artworks.
10. Drip – Drip refers to those with a distinct and confident fashion sense, exuding sophistication and trendiness in their demeanour. For example, Sharun is known for a drip.
11. Dupe – Dupe is a word used to address something premium and expensive that gives off a classy vibe. For example, George pulled up in a dupe Range Rover car at the party.
12. Delulu – Delulu is derived from the word “delusional” and is commonly used to describe individuals who exhibit peculiar or extreme behaviour, especially superfans or romantic partners. For example, Frank believes girls get all delulu when they see their crush.
13. ELI5- ELI5 stands for “Explain like I’m 5”. This acronym is used when asking for a simplified explanation from someone. For example, The ELI5 technique used in the presentation made it memorable.
14. Extra – Extra is used to characterize someone or something that displays exaggerated, excessive, or dramatic behaviour, appearance, or actions. For example, Shila acts a bit extra whenever Mike is around.
15. FR – FR stands for “For real”. It conveys genuine feelings or thoughts, like saying “seriously” or “truthfully”. For example, I love Clara, FR.
16. Fam – Fam, derived from family, refers to friends, colleagues or anyone who feels like family or you are close to. For example, Hello fam, how have you been?
17. Glow up – Glow up refers to a positive transformation or evolution in a person’s appearance, confidence, or lifestyle over time. For example, Sarah decided to glow up for the party.
18. Guap – Guap is a term used to describe money – lots of money. For example, Even when given a Guap, she maintained her integrity.
19. GOAT – GOAT stands for “Greatest of all times”. This is used when one feels incredible and can always have a way out of events. For example, Ronaldo has always been my GOAT.
20. Girl math – Girl math originated from TikTok. It is used to justify a woman’s impulsive purchases for gratification. For example, Bisi’s girl math almost made her husband bankrupt.
21. Hits Different – Hit different is a slang term used to express a distinct feeling that something gives that is not normal. For example, Rihanna’s music always hits differently.
22. Icks – Icks are used to express a negative feeling towards something or express disgust. It is a Gen Z insult. For example, I get the Icks whenever i see Brain.
23. IRL – IRL stands for “In real life”. It is a slang term that describes something that is not virtual or happened online but is real. For example, IRL Kdrama storylines rarely occur.
24. It’s giving – It’s giving is another popular slang term that describes the overall aura or vibe something exudes. For example, Sam’s party dress looks hideous; It’s giving cheap Barbie.
25. IYKYK – IYKYK is an acronym for “If you know, you know.” This describes a shared understanding or belief on a particular thing. For example, Not all exorcism storylines are true, IYKYK.
26. Karen – Karen is a word used to describe a demanding middle-aged woman who nags a lot. Karens are self-centred, entitled, and prone to unreasonable or excessive complaints or demands. For example, Doris always acts like a Karen.
27. Lewks – Lweks is a popular word for a fashion look or style that leaves a lasting impression. For example, I decided to shop some lewks from the Gala Night party.
28. Let him cook – Let him cook is a slang term that gives someone space to think and recollect. For example, The crew let him cook after his mom passed away.
29. Lowkey/ Highkey –  Lowkey is a word used to describe something that holds importance without being excessively intense, while Highkey is the opposite of this.
30. Menty B – Menty B is a word used to describe a mental breakdown. This word describes situations when people go through a considerable amount of mental stress that can be overwhelming. For example, Precious Menty B, since the breakup, is getting out of hand.
31. Moots – Moots is a social media trend that connects people. Moots can be used in various contexts, such as by becoming my mutual follower on social media. This word describes mutual followers across multiple platforms. For example, Moots, if you want to grow your account.
32. NPC – NPC stands for “Non-Player Character, ” originating from video game culture. It refers to characters within a game governed by computer algorithms instead of being controlled by a player. For example, Call Of Duty NPC is incredible.
33. OOMP – OOMP stands for “One of my followers. It is more like referring to individuals indirectly, especially on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, etc. For example, OOMF suggested hosting a fashion concert in December.
34. OK boomer –  OK boomer is an increasingly popular slang amongst Gen Z. Ok boomer describes frustration or disagreement with older individuals who they believe are disconnected from contemporary issues, values, or technology.
35. OPP – OPP is an abbreviation for opposite. It describes someone in the opposite direction or competing side, e.g., I got the OPP of my dream birthday party.
36. POV – POV is an acronym for “Point of view”. It is popular on TikTok to create tags or add captions to signify that the shared content is your perspective. For example, POV when i first met my wife at a restaurant.
37. Rizz – Rizz is a popular term on social media. It describes a person’s charisma and undeniable sense of style and confidence when dealing with people. For example, Shola’s rizz made everyone stare in awe at the party.
38. Salty – Salty is a word used to display someone’s bitterness, resentment or irritation concerning a subject. For example,  Clarke’s still salty after the breakup.
39. Sheesh – Sheesh is frequently used to convey emotions like surprise, amazement, annoyance, or disappointment. For example, Sheesh! The movie was super exciting.
40. Simp – Simp is a word used to describe someone who shows too much attention or care towards a love interest, usually one-sided affection. A simp goes to great lengths to please the person they’re interested in. For example, Ace has become a simp over Flora.
41. Slay – Slay is a popular word used to compliment someone who has made a strong impression on you. While commonly associated with fashion, music, and artistic performances, it can be used in various contexts. For example, I slayed the Ashoebi dress.
42. Spill the Tea – Spill the tea is a popular slang used on social media. It means sharing gossip or revealing intriguing news. It is more like asking someone to share the latest updates or new gist. For example, You’re yet to spill the tea about the Lagos fashion week.
43. TBF –  TBF is an acronym for “to be fair”. TBF introduces a statement that promotes fairness in a discussion. For example, To be fair, both teams did exceptionally well in the relay race.
44. TFW – TFW is an acronym for “That feeling when”. It explains a scenario that captures human feelings. For example, That feeling when your favourite person walks into the room.
45. Yikes – Yikes is a word used to express shock or surprise. It is a convenient way of responding to an unexpected situation. For example, Watching her drink the herbal tea gave me the yikes.

Here, we have explained some Gen Z slang popular with this generation. You should note that these slang have become part of the daily lives of many and, as such, are important.