You open TikTok or hear your kid talking and suddenly feel like you’ve stepped into a foreign language class. Words like “Pookie,” “Cap,” and “Slay” are flying around, and you’re left blinking, trying to piece it together. Welcome to the ever-changing world of Gen Z slang — the unofficial dictionary of youth in 2025.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Gen Z has its own evolving slang that can sound confusing to older generations. Terms like cap, gyat, and rizz have specific meanings and social references. This guide breaks it all down so you don’t have to Google every conversation. Read on to impress your niece, nephew, or favorite Zoomer at the next family gathering.
Why So Many New Words?
Language evolves. But Gen Z has a unique way of making it fast, creative, and sometimes just hilarious. Social media apps like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are where these words are born, grow popular, and sometimes die — all in the span of a few weeks.
Gen Z slang is also deeply tied to pop culture. Think memes, streamers, catchphrases, and viral audio clips. It’s like a game — and only the internet-savvy survive.
Top Gen Z Slang Words in 2025 (And What They Actually Mean)
- No Cap – “No lie” or “For real.” Example: “That pizza was the best I’ve ever had, no cap.”
- Cap – A lie or exaggeration. Example: “You said you met Beyoncé? That’s cap.”
- Rizz – Short for charisma. Often used to describe someone’s ability to flirt. Example: “He’s got zero rizz. Couldn’t even ask for ketchup.”
- Pookie – A cute nickname for someone you love — could be your BFF, partner, or even a dog. Example: “Come here, Pookie! I missed you!”
- Slay – To do something extremely well, especially in fashion or confidence. Example: “You totally slayed that presentation!”
- Bet – Means ‘okay,’ ‘yes,’ or ‘got it.’ Example: “Want to hit the mall later?” “Bet.”
- Gyat – Typically describes someone with an attractive body, originally from reacting to eye-catching appearances. Often used in excitement. Example: “GYAT! Did you see her outfit?”
- Mid – Used to say something is average or unimpressive. Example: “That movie was straight mid.”
- Delulu – Short for ‘delusional,’ especially about unrealistic dreams or crushes. Example: “You think he likes you? Girl, you’re so delulu.”
- It’s Giving – A phrase used to describe a vibe or aesthetic. Example: “That outfit? It’s giving CEO vibes.”
- NPC – Stands for ‘non-playable character,’ used as a joke for people lacking originality or following trends blindly. Example: “He just copies everything he sees on TikTok. Total NPC.”
The Origins: Internet Culture + Creativity
Most of these words don’t come from dictionaries but from viral moments. A creator might say something funny, it catches on, and boom — a new term is born. Others grow from mispronunciations, exaggerations, or even sarcasm.
For instance, “gyat” came from YouTubers and streamers overreacting comically to people’s Instagram pics and videos. It’s exaggerated admiration — the Gen Z way. “Pookie” may sound like it belongs in a 2000s rom-com, but for Gen Z, it’s actually used affectionately or sometimes just ironically.
Phrases and Sayings You’ll Hear
Aside from single words, Gen Z loves catchy phrases. Here are a few sneak peeks into their dialogue:
- “You ate that” – Means you did something impressively well.
- “I’m weak” / “I’m dead” – Said when something is really funny.
- “Touch grass” – Essentially means “get a grip” or “get offline.”
- “Main character energy” – When someone acts like the star of the show (in a good way).
- “Sheesh” – A shout of praise or disbelief, often drawn out like “Sheeeeeesh!”
Common Confusions (That Make You Say “Huh?”)
Some Gen Z slang words sound nothing like what older generations used. Here’s where it gets tricky — and fun:
- “Slaps” doesn’t mean violence. It means something’s amazing (like a song).
- “Lit” isn’t just about flames — it means exciting or cool.
- “Mood” can mean anything relatable, not just emotional feelings.
- “Ratio” – If your reply gets more likes than the original tweet, you’ve ‘ratioed’ it. It’s kinda savage.
Why Gen Z Slang Matters
It’s not just fun — it’s cultural. Gen Z slang is a way of building identity, humor, and social bonds. It helps people connect, define trends, and make jokes in a language only their group understands.
Think of it like emojis in word form. They’re fast, expressive, and leave room for play. Even if it sounds strange to older ears, it’s part of the DNA of online communication.
Tips for Understanding Without Trying Too Hard
- Don’t force it – You don’t need to say “pookie” on a Zoom call with coworkers.
- Watch TikTok or YouTube – A few scrolls will teach you more than textbooks ever could.
- Ask a Gen Z’er – They’ll love explaining it (maybe while laughing a bit at your confusion).
- Stay curious – Language is always changing. It’s okay not to know it all.
What’s Next? The Slang Future
Old slang dies, and new ones replace it. Just when you get used to “cap,” another term like “fax” or “situationship” will take its place. Gen Z may grow up eventually, but their love of inventive wordplay is here to stay.
You don’t have to keep up with every word. But knowing a few helps you connect — and you might just find yourself dropping a “slay” or “sheesh” in your next group chat!
Final Thoughts
Gen Z’s glossary is hilarious, creative, and constantly evolving. You won’t master it overnight, and that’s okay. Just have fun with it — and next time you hear someone yell “GYAT!” across the room, you’ll know they’re not speaking in code. Probably.
So go forth and slay, Pookie. No cap.
