2025 Gen Z Slang Dictionary - 50+ Words Parents Must Know

In This Article

Part 1: What Is Gen Z Slang?

Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) and Generation Alpha have grown up in a hyper-digital world. Their language evolves rapidly, driven by viral TikTok trends, gaming culture (Roblox, Minecraft), and influencers.

Moreover, this new digital language has affected other generations. Some words have even made it to dictionaries, such as “yeet” and “ONG.”

Why learn it? Understanding these phrases isn't just about being "cool"—it's crucial for digital parenting. It helps you detect bullying, inappropriate conversations, or mental health struggles hidden in plain sight.

Try FamiSafe, Decode Teen Slang.

Part 2: Top 10 Viral Gen Z Slang Words of 2025

These are the hottest terms dominating social media feeds right now. If you only learn a few, make it these:

✨1. Rizz

Definition: Short for "charisma." It refers to someone's ability to charm or flirt effectively.

Example: "He’s got unspoken rizz." (He is naturally very charming.)

🦄2. Delulu

Definition: A playful shortening of "delusional." It often describes believing in something unlikely (usually regarding romance) but choosing to stay positive about it.

Example: "I think he likes me back. I'm staying delulu until it comes trululu."

🚽3. Skibidi

Definition: Originating from the viral "Skibidi Toilet" meme. It uses vary wildly but often means "bad," "weird," or is used as a nonsense filler word.

Example: "That’s so skibidi." (That is weird/bad.)

😲4. Gyatt / Gyat

Definition: A shortened exclamation of "God damn," usually used when seeing someone attractive (specifically with a curvy figure). Parents should note this can be objectifying.

Example: "Gyatt! Did you see her?"

🍔5. Fanum Tax

Definition: Taking a portion of someone else’s food. Originated from streamer Kai Cenat and Fanum.

Example: "Let me get that Fanum tax on your fries."

🤫6. Mewing

Definition: A tongue posture technique to define the jawline. Teens often make a "shushing" gesture to signal they are "mewing" and can't talk (or don't want to talk to you).

💅7. It’s Giving...

Definition: detailed comparison. Used to describe the "vibe" or energy of something.

Example: "It’s giving main character energy." (You look like the star of the show.)

🍽️8. Ate / Ate and Left No Crumbs

Definition: Doing something perfectly or looking amazing.

Example: "She ate that performance!"

😐9. Beige Flag

Definition: A trait in a partner that isn't a dealbreaker (red flag) or a huge plus (green flag), just kind of weird or neutral.

🐺10. Sigma

Definition: A "lone wolf" male who is successful and dominant but doesn't seek validation like an "Alpha." popular in gaming circles.

Part 3: The Complete A-Z Gen Z Slang Glossary

Here is a quick reference table for other common slang words you might encounter in texts or comments.

[Video] Gen X Parents React And Decode Gen Z Slang

Part 4: Emojis Decoded: What Do 💀 and 🤡 Mean?

It's not just words; emojis have changed meanings too. Here is a quick decoder:

• 💀 (Skull): "I'm dead" (It's hilarious).
• 😭 (Loudly Crying Face): "I can't even" (Overwhelmingly funny or cute).
• 🤡 (Clown): "Fool / Clown" (Used when someone says something stupid).
• 🧢 (Blue Cap): "Cap" (Lying / Fake).
• 🗿 (Moai): "Stone face" (Awkward silence or Sigma behavior).

Part 5: How to Protect Your Child from Harmful Online Content

While most slang is harmless fun, some terms can mask inappropriate behavior, cyberbullying, or drug references (e.g., "plug," "420"). If you are worried about who your child is talking to or what they are viewing, open communication is key.

For added peace of mind, consider using a parental control tool like Wondershare FamiSafe. It helps you:

• Detect Suspicious Text: Get alerts for bullying words or explicit slang.
• Block Inappropriate Apps: Manage screen time on TikTok and Instagram.
• Track Location: Ensure they are safe in the real world too.

Conclusion

Language changes with every generation. Learning your child's Gen Z slang helps build trust and keeps communication lines open. Don't be "cheugy" and dismiss it—embrace the "rizz" of parenting in the digital age!