Let’s face it—keeping up with teen slang can feel like a full-time job! I love dropping new lingo to remind my kids that I’m still “cool” and in the know. So, here’s a quick guide to some trending slang to help you stay in the loop (and maybe even surprise your kids with your “cool” factor).
4 Social Media-Inspired Terms
1. Eating
Meaning: Slaying it, doing a fantastic job, or looking incredible.
Example: “Did you see her on stage? She was eating!”
2. Rizz
Meaning: Short for charisma. It describes someone’s charm, smoothness, or ability to attract others.
Example: “That guy’s got major rizz!”
3. No Cap
Meaning: Saying something that’s totally true or serious (opposite of “cap,” which means lying).
Example: “She’s the best player on the team, no cap!”
4. Ratio
Meaning: Usually used online, it’s when someone’s reply gets more likes or engagement than the original post, indicating people agree more with the reply.
Example: “That comment was so wrong, he got totally ratioed.”
5 Trending Expression Terms
5. Sigma
Meaning: Originally used for people who go against the grain and think independently (like a “lone wolf”). Now, it’s also being used to react to things that seem baffling or unexpected, like saying, “What the hell?”
Example: “He did what? What the sigma…”
6. Suss
Meaning: Suspicious or sketchy, often used to describe someone or something that seems off.
Example: “He was acting really suss at the party.”
7. Sussy-Bacca
Meaning: Combines “sussy” (suspicious) and “Bacca” (from Chewbacca, the character known for his loyalty but also funny, wild side). Used to describe someone acting strangely or suspiciously.
Example: “Don’t trust him—he’s a total sussy-bacca.”
8. Skipity Ohio
Meaning: This one’s a bit of an inside joke on the internet. “Ohio” has become a meme representing strange or weird happenings. “Skipity Ohio” is a fun way of saying something is off, unusual, or just not it.
Example: “That dance move was kinda… skipity Ohio.”
9. Bet
Meaning: Used to agree or confirm something. It’s like saying “okay” or “for sure.”
Example: “Can you pick me up later?” – “Bet!”
Style and Entertainment Slang
10. Mid
Meaning: Something that’s average or underwhelming, not great.
Example: “That movie was kinda mid, not worth the hype.”
11. Bussin
Meaning: Used to describe something really good, especially with food or music.
Example: “This pizza is bussin’!”
12. Drip
Meaning: Refers to someone’s style, especially if they’re well-dressed or have impressive fashion.
Example: “Check out her outfit—she’s got drip.”
13. Slaps
Meaning: Refers to something really good, especially in reference to music or food.
Example: “That new song slaps!”
14. Touch Grass
Meaning: A humorous way of telling someone to get off their phone or computer and go outside. Often used when someone is overreacting or taking something too seriously online.
Example: “You’re way too into that game. Go touch some grass!”
How to Use Teen Slang Naturally
Try these out when joking around with your kids or when you hear them in conversation. Who knows—you might get a few surprised looks or even an impressed reaction! We especially love the ones that encourage getting off devices to “touch grass.” And if you’re looking for ways to balance screen time in your family, check out our family-friendly device contract as a good conversation starter.