Teen Language Decoded: 10 Teen Slang Words You Need to Know Now

By Favour Jonah

Have you ever observed how every generation has its own unique way of communicating? It’s a distinct code of words that characterizes their identity, commonly known as slang.

 

The Evolution of Slang

Once considered very cool, Millennials’ slang is now preserved like old records in an archive. Just as we’re starting to adjust, Gen Z arrives with a new set of words to communicate and connect with their peers. Making matters even more interesting, we now have Gen Alpha (children born from 2010 onwards), bringing their vocabulary to the table and keeping us engaged.

 

 

Modern Teen Slang

If you find yourself in a conversation with tweens or teens, you might feel completely lost. Sometimes, you may need to grab your phone and look up slang on Google to stay current with the conversation. But why not flip the script and be the parent who’s not only informed but also speaks their language? With some help, you can effortlessly join those conversations like a pro—or even throw in a playful tease using their lingo! So, here’s your updated teen slang cheat sheet for 2024.

 

Bussin

If something’s “bussin,” it’s not just good – it’s great! This positive term is all about describing something truly awesome and outstanding.

 

Skibidi

This word may sound mysterious, but people use it to sound cool rather than to convey a specific meaning. It often appears in a negative context to describe something bad or evil. Its origin traces back to the phrase “skibidi toilet,” inspired by a viral video meme of a man’s head in a toilet. People frequently add phrases like “skibidi ohio rizz” or “skibidi ohio sigma rizz” to enhance its charm.

 

Rizz

To have “rizz,” means to be good at flirting. It’s not just about charisma; it’s about effortlessly charming others with smooth pickup lines. A “rizzler” is someone who at flirting, a professional in flirting.

 

Ate

This is used to praise someone for doing something exceptional. It means someone did a great job. For example, “She ate and left no crumbs” means she did something amazing. Yes! “Left no crumbs” is another slang. People normally pair it with the word “Ate.”

 

Do it for the plot

This phrase is all about seizing the moment and being the main character of every narrative. It’s like saying, “Take control of your life and make the most of it.” It’s a motivational phrase to inspire people to keep going and create their own success stories.

 

Sigma

Being a “sigma” means being a cool, calm alpha male. It’s someone who’s confident and in control. However, its meaning can shift based on context. For instance, “Erm what the sigma!” is a popular catchphrase among Gen Alpha, derived from a SpongeBob meme. It’s a nonchalant reaction or filler word expressing disinterest.

 

Mewing

It involves a specific gesture. If you see your kids pointing to the lips doing the “shh” sign and touching their jawline, that’s called “Mewing.” People use it when they don’t want to answer a question or provide a response. It’s like saying, “I’ll keep quiet about that.”

 

Cook

When someone says, “Let him cook,” it’s about giving someone the space to express themselves or develop their ideas. It’s an encouragement to let them shine and see what they can create.

 

Mid

Describing something as “mid” implies it’s not particularly impressive. It’s a polite way of saying, “It’s okay, but nothing special,” expressing a lack of excitement and interest.

 

GYAT

Despite what parents may think, “GYAT” isn’t about getting your act together. Instead, it’s a compliment about having a big butt. An acronym for “Girl Your Ass Thick.” If someone screams it in all caps, it’s a playful way of saying, “You’re blessed with a thick booty.”