Teen slang words and phrases for 21st century parents

Teenagers in schools and colleges constantly create and popularize new slang terms.

Situationship – More than friends but not officially dating.

Rizz – Short for “charisma,” meaning the ability to attract someone.

Delulu – Short for “delusional,” used when someone has unrealistic expectations (especially in relationships).

Mid – Something that is average or unimpressive.

Slay – Doing something exceptionally well or looking great.

NPC – Refers to someone who acts predictably or without independent thought, like a “non-playable character” in video games.

Side-eye – Used to express disapproval or skepticism.

Bet – Used instead of “okay” or “for sure” to agree with someone.

Gyatt – An expression of excitement or admiration, often used when reacting to someone’s appearance.

GOAT – Stands for “Greatest of All Time.”

Ratio – When someone’s reply gets more likes than the original post, meaning the original opinion was unpopular.

Stan – A devoted fan of something or someone.

Yeet – Used to express excitement or to describe throwing something with force.

No cap – Means “no lie” or “for real.”

Touch grass – Telling someone to go outside and experience real life instead of being too online.

Moots – Short for “mutuals,” meaning people who follow each other on social media.

Vibe check – Checking the mood or energy of a situation or person.

Ghosting – Suddenly cutting off all communication with someone without explanation.

Finsta – A “fake Instagram” account used for posting more personal or unfiltered content.

Flex – Showing off something impressive.

G.O.A.S. (Get Out And Socialize) – A way of telling someone to be more social instead of staying online.

Simp – Someone who tries too hard to impress or please someone they like, often at their own expense.

Skibidi – A random, meme-based phrase from viral internet culture, often used humorously.

Corecore – A genre of aesthetic edits that evoke deep emotions or nostalgia.

Meat-riding – Excessively praising or defending someone, often in a cringy or over-the-top way.

Gatekeep – Keeping something exclusive and not letting others enjoy it (e.g., a favorite band or hobby).

Goblin mode – Acting lazy, messy, or unbothered about appearances.

BFFR (Be F*ing For Real)** – A blunt way to call out someone’s unrealistic or foolish statement.

Clutch – Pulling off something impressive at the last minute (often used in gaming or sports).

Drip – Stylish clothing or accessories.

Slaps – When something (a song, food, event) is really good.

Fumbled the bag – Messing up a great opportunity.

On God – Used for emphasis, meaning “I swear” or “seriously.”

Gassed up – Feeling hyped or confident due to praise or compliments.

Boofed – Something that went horribly wrong or is messed up.

Eepy – A cute way of saying sleepy or tired.

It’s giving… – Used to describe a vibe or aesthetic (e.g., “It’s giving main character energy”).

Pressed – Upset or bothered about something.

Bussin’ – Something that tastes really good (mainly food-related).

Cap/Capping – Lying or exaggerating.

Throwing hands – Getting ready to fight or argue.

L take – A bad opinion or perspective.

Caught in 4K – Getting exposed for doing something, often with video or screenshots.

Cheugy – Something outdated or out of style.

Glow-up – A major positive transformation, usually in appearance or lifestyle.