10 Viral TV Slang Terms Explained

TV shows and social media have introduced slang that’s now part of everyday speech. From "rizz" (charm) to "sus" (suspicious), these terms reflect how pop culture shapes language. Here’s a quick summary:

• "Rizz": Charm or attraction, popularized by Twitch streamer Kai Cenat.
• "Gyat": Expression of surprise or admiration, derived from AAVE.
• "Ohio": Describes bizarre or chaotic situations, inspired by memes.
• "Sus": Short for "suspicious", made famous by Among Us.
• "No Cap": Means "no lie", rooted in African American Vernacular English.
• "Bet": Agreement or confidence, often used in casual chats.
• "Drip": Refers to stylish fashion or confidence, from hip-hop culture.
• "Bussin'": Something exceptionally good, especially food.
• "Cheugy": Outdated or trying too hard, popularized on TikTok.
• "Skibidi": A viral dance term turned internet meme.

These slang terms show how language evolves through TV, gaming, and online platforms. Keep reading for their origins, meanings, and examples of how they’re used today.

TikTok teacher explains Gen Z slang terms

How TV Shows Shape Modern Slang

TV shows play a key role in shaping language, often introducing phrases that quickly become part of everyday conversations. With the rise of social media, this process has sped up significantly.

Take Seinfeld, for example. In 1995, it introduced the term "regifting", which Merriam-Webster recognizes as its first recorded use[2][3]. Or Saturday Night Live, which gave us "Debbie Downer" in 2004 - a phrase now commonly used to describe someone who dampens the mood[2][3].

Here are some standout examples of TV’s influence on modern slang:

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube have transformed how quickly these terms spread[5]. While some users - about 25% - find it hard to keep up with emerging slang[5], these platforms ensure TV-inspired phrases reach a global audience almost instantly.

"These days it spreads incredibly easily. It used to be something that you would have to actually be in personal contact with someone in order to pick up slang vocabulary."
– Emily Brewster, Senior Editor at Merriam-Webster[4]

Why do these expressions catch on? It’s often a mix of cultural relevance, humor, relatability, and repetition.

Streaming platforms have also changed the game, especially for younger viewers. For instance, over half of the audience for shows like Loki comes from Gen Z, showing how certain programs can influence the language trends of specific age groups[6]. This shift paves the way for even more viral TV-inspired slang in the future.

1. "Rizz": Charm and Attraction

"Rizz", short for "charisma", refers to someone's knack for attracting or charming potential romantic interests through their personality rather than their looks. The term shot to fame in mid-2021, thanks to Twitch streamer Kai Cenat's broadcasts [7]. Like many pop-culture-driven phrases, "rizz" has changed how Gen Z talks about attraction.

Kai Cenat broke it down like this:

"Rizz is when you're talking to a girl and, at first, s*** is not going your way. It's looking bad for you, until you spit game and you're rizzing them up to where s*** starts to go your way. You're so slick with your words and what you're saying, to where the girl is like, 'OK, yeah, who is this?!' After s*** goes your way, you're like, 'Yeah, I rizzed her up. I've got mad rizz.'" [9]

The term gained massive traction on TikTok, racking up over 6 billion views on related content [9]. It even crossed into mainstream pop culture when actor Tom Holland joked about having "limited rizz" during an interview [7].

Here are some popular variations of the term:

Psychologist Michele Goldman, PsyD, adds her perspective:

"Some rizz is spoken and other people have unspoken rizz. Generally, people think of rizz as being able to easily approach another person they're attracted to, flirt with that person with ease, be charming and ultimately attract a partner." [8]

Up next, we dive into another term that captures moments of sudden surprise: "Gyat."

2. "Gyat": Expression of Surprise

The slang term "gyat", much like "rizz", highlights how digital culture shapes language at lightning speed. Originating from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), "gyat" conveys strong feelings of surprise, admiration, or excitement [10]. Let’s dive into its roots and how it gained traction.

John H. McWhorter, a linguistics professor at Columbia University, sheds light on its history:

"GYAT evolved from 'goddamn.' Specifically, a heightened way of saying it has always been 'GOT-damn!' which GYAT is based on." [10]

The term gained widespread attention through streaming platforms, with Twitch streamer Kai Cenat playing a key role in popularizing it [11]. His influence became especially clear in August 2023, when thousands flocked to Manhattan's Union Square after Cenat announced giveaways during a stream [11].

"Gyat" has proven to be flexible in how it's used, fitting into different scenarios:

Kelly Elizabeth Wright, a language sciences professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, offers additional perspective on its origins:

"It appears there are several competing theories for the provenance of this term, and because of this, there are also conflicting opinions on what type of term it is. Some consider this to be Black Southern, others Jamaican, and still others more generally Black ... there are many places where those traditions overlap." [10]

The cultural depth of "gyat" has only amplified its digital presence. Its growing popularity earned it a nomination for the 2023 Word of the Year by the American Dialect Society. You’ll often spot "gyat" on Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, Discord, and YouTube - sometimes with extra 't's (like "gyatttt") to emphasize a stronger reaction [12][13].

3. "Ohio": Strange or Chaotic

"Ohio" has joined the ranks of viral slang, proving how a single word can capture the absurdity of modern culture. Once just a state name, it's now shorthand for describing anything chaotic or bizarre. Social media mentions of "Ohio" jumped 193% between July 2023 and July 2024, turning local humor into a global phenomenon[14].

Here’s a look at key moments that shaped Ohio’s internet fame:

The "only in Ohio" meme format has been a major driver of this trend. It takes absurd scenarios and frames them as everyday occurrences in Ohio. As KnowYourMeme editor Owen Carry explains:

"Most people who are making these memes about Ohio have also never been there, and they are making them for other people who have never been there."[17]

Eamon Levesque highlights the humor behind these memes:

"The premise is simple: you take a video of something clearly wrong - so dysfunctional that it becomes surreal and unsettling - and describe it as 'normal in Ohio.' You feed a baby in Ohio by throwing it out the window. Monkeys at the Ohio Zoo have AK-47s. Your Ohio Hotel Room has Slender Man's cousin living in its walls. Hit up an Ohio amusement park and you'll get full-blown trebucheted."[16]

Search data backs up the term’s popularity. Phrases like "Only in Ohio" and "You're so Ohio" tripled in Google searches, surpassing 58,000 inquiries during the summer of 2024. It even became the second most searched meme on Google in 2023[15].

Young people are also spinning "Ohio" into new slang. As Eden Rodriguez puts it: "Ohio is sort of weird, absurd."[17] This evolution reflects how viral slang continues to reshape modern pop culture.

4. "Sus": Signs of Suspicion

After the quirky rise of "Ohio", another gaming term has made its way into everyday language: "Sus."

Short for "suspicious", "sus" gained traction in 2020, thanks to the viral popularity of Among Us [18]. The online multiplayer game drove the term into mainstream culture, with TikTok videos featuring Among Us content racking up over 13 billion views by October 2020 [18].

Here’s how "sus" went from niche slang to a cultural staple:

A 2023 study revealed that 62% of parents hear "sus" most frequently from their teens, and 65% of them know what it means [20]. The term’s simplicity and flexibility make it a go-to for expressing doubt or unease.

"Kids nowadays interpret the word 'suspicious' as something slightly dodgy or uncomfortable. Children tend to take on these words and interpret it in their own way and when they find it difficult to locate, within their lexicon, another word to express their discomfort, they fall back on slang." [20]

Today, "sus" is used to describe anything that feels off or untrustworthy. Merriam-Webster explains:

"'Sus' is used as a synonym of suspicious or suspect, as in 'you've been acting pretty sus, I think you're up to something.' It's a slang word used to say that someone or something shouldn't be trusted." [19]

Linguist Adam Cooper highlights how slang like "sus" often reflects deeper cultural dynamics:

"Slang in general naturally pushes back against those in power and authority and that's why we tend to associate it with younger generations or marginalized communities." [20]

The widespread adoption of "sus" underscores how language evolves, driven by younger generations and digital culture.

5. "No Cap": Complete Truth

The term "no cap", originating from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), means "no lie" or "for real." Its roots lie in the use of "cap" to signify exaggeration or falsehood, a concept that has been part of African American wordplay for decades, particularly in a verbal game called The Dozens [21].

Kelly Elizabeth Wright, an assistant professor of language sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, provides insight into the history:

"Cap or capping has referenced bragging, exaggerating, or lying since the early 1900's. Capping as a behavior was and is often used by African Americans while playing The Dozens, which is a social game involving insulting others with exquisite wordplay for fun." [21]

Here's a quick look at how "no cap" has evolved over time:

This progression shows how "no cap" transitioned from a playful term in community games to a widely recognized phrase in modern communication.

In today's conversations, "no cap" is a straightforward way to emphasize honesty:

• "Cap" refers to a lie or exaggeration.
• "That's cap" calls out something untrue.
• "No cap" confirms that a statement is entirely genuine.

Wright notes that the playful use of "capping" in The Dozens eventually developed into "no cap", propelled by its adoption in Southern hip-hop and later mainstream culture [21].

While some suggest "no cap" could reference the difference between solid gold and gold-capped teeth, this theory lacks strong evidence. Instead, its strength lies in its deep cultural roots and organic evolution within African American communities.

Today, "no cap" is everywhere - especially on platforms like Twitter and TikTok [23]. Artists like Future and Young Thug helped bring the phrase to a broader audience [22].

The rise of "no cap" as a way to signal truthfulness reflects the broader influence of AAVE and hip-hop culture in shaping modern slang. Stay tuned as we dive into more viral TV slang terms in the Gen Z Slang Directory next.

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6. "Bet": Quick Agreement

"Bet" is a slang term widely used in casual conversations. It originated from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and became popular in the 1990s, thanks to hip-hop culture and social media.

This term is used in several ways during everyday chats:

Its straightforward nature makes it perfect for quick digital communication. For example, replying with "bet" can confirm plans for lunch, show support for a friend's idea, or express certainty about succeeding in a task - all in one short, effective word.

This term is especially popular among teens and young adults on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where brevity is key. "Bet" is a great example of how language evolves to fit fast-paced, online interactions.

Next, let’s dive into another trending term that’s taken over digital slang: "drip."

7. "Drip": Fashion Style

"Drip" started in hip-hop culture and now represents an entire style and vibe. The term became widely known in the late 2010s, thanks to its presence in music and social media.

Music played a big role in bringing "drip" into the mainstream. In 2017, Offset from Migos helped popularize the term in "Bad and Boujee" and later in "Ric Flair Drip." Rapper Sauce Walka also described its deeper meaning:

"To drip is to be a king. To drip is to be a winner" [24]

This highlights how "drip" signifies both success and a standout sense of style.

Some common variations include:

• Drippy: Refers to especially stylish outfits.
• Dripping: Wearing lots of designer items or flashy accessories.
• Got the drip: Means having an impressive and fashionable look.

Today, "drip" is a go-to term in fashion slang, frequently seen on social media, TV shows, and in everyday conversations.

Next: "Bussin'."

8. "Bussin'": Very Good

"Bussin'" is a slang term that highlights something that's incredibly enjoyable or excellent - especially when it comes to food. Originating from African American Vernacular English, this term gained traction through viral moments, like a 2021 Kitchen Nightmares clip featuring Gordon Ramsay's enthusiastic reactions to food [25][27].

"Bussin' signals that something, often food, is exceptionally good", says Dr. Patricia S Dixon, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor based in Tampa, FL. "It adds an element of fun to the dining experience, making it a lively part of teen culture." [25]

The word has even made its mark in marketing. For instance, Eggroll Boyz, a restaurant, uses a neon sign with the phrase "Bussin, bussin" alongside their slogan, "Good food, good vibes, good service" [26]. This showcases how the term has extended beyond casual conversations into branding and advertising.

Here are some notable contributors to its popularity:

"Bussin' means something is impressive, amazing, or delicious", explains Dr. Suzanne Mungalez, a perinatal psychologist at The MaMASpace [25].

The term has become part of everyday language, with phrases like "These fries are bussin'" or "Your mom's cooking is always bussin'" now common among younger generations [25].

Next: "Cheugy."

9. "Cheugy": Out of Style

The term "cheugy" is slang for describing something as outdated or trying too hard to be trendy. It was first coined in 2013 by Gaby Rasson, a Beverly Hills High School student, but it didn’t gain traction until 2021. That year, a viral TikTok video and an April 2021 New York Times article brought it into the spotlight, earning it the title of the American Dialect Society's "informal word of the year" for 2021 [28].

"Cheugy is a slang way of calling someone or something uncool or unfashionable, especially when seen as slightly cringeworthy or trying too hard. It's mainly used as a jokey put-down of trends stereotypically associated with millennials." [29] - Merriam-Webster

Pop culture and TV shows helped cement the phrase. Tawny, a 35-year-old writer and sobriety activist, summed it up perfectly:

"It's Ashton Kutcher in a trucker hat on Punk'd and Paris Hilton wearing Von Dutch trucker hats on The Simple Life." [30]

Here are some examples of what’s often labeled as "cheugy" in different areas of culture:

Laura, a 33-year-old writer and comedian from New York, explains the concept well: "Things that are far enough outside of the trend cycle to be uncool, but not so far they come back around in a nostalgic way" [30].

Interestingly, what started as a dismissive label has evolved into something more reflective of personal style. Many now embrace their "cheugy" side, recognizing that style doesn’t always have to align with the latest trends [31].

Now, let’s move on to another viral term making waves: "Skibidi."

10. "Skibidi": Viral Dance Term

Wrapping up the list, let’s dive into "Skibidi", a term that started as a dance sensation and morphed into a massive internet meme. It all began with a dance track by the Russian rave group Little Big, which gained traction when the band launched the #skibidichallenge, encouraging fans to share their own versions of the Skibidi dance [32][33].

Things didn’t stop there. The term took on a life of its own thanks to the wildly popular "Skibidi Toilet" YouTube series. By 2024, here’s how far the phenomenon had spread:

Among younger audiences, "Skibidi" has become a playful, nonsensical term. Media critic Adam Bumas of Garbage Day sums it up well:

"The series leans into 'weird internet aesthetics', creating a nostalgic element" [34].

On social platforms, it’s even inspired quirky phrases like "skibidi Ohio rizz", often used to describe something awkward or outlandish [35].

Business Insider describes "Skibidi Toilet" as a cultural marker of internet chaos, showing how the term evolved from a dance challenge into a widely used slang phrase [34]. This shift highlights how TV and online trends continue to shape the way young people communicate today.

Using the Gen Z Slang Directory

The Gen Z Slang Directory (https://genzslanglist.com) is a helpful tool for anyone looking to understand the language of Gen Z, especially slang inspired by TV shows. With Gen Z's growing economic power [39], understanding their communication style is a step toward bridging generational gaps.

This directory dives into viral TV slang terms and offers several useful features:

What sets this directory apart is its focus on being genuine. Megan Brophy, Vice President of Marketing at Abercrombie & Fitch, highlights this:

"Gen Z is definitely very direct. They're very transparent. They want realness. They want authenticity" [39].

The directory not only tracks slang but also illustrates its evolution. For instance, Dictionary.com reported a 1,200% jump in searches for the word "demure" between January and August 2024 [1], showing just how quickly language can change.

"When we try to meet them where they are, we can further bridge gaps and inspire meaningful conversations!" – Crisis Text Line [40].

Many Gen Z slang terms are rooted in African-American Vernacular English and ball culture [37], making this resource key to understanding both the language and its cultural background.

For marketers and educators, this tool is particularly useful. With 85% of Gen Z discovering new products on social media and 59% engaging with brands there [38], staying updated on slang can help foster better connections. The directory is free and accessible, making it easy for anyone to decode terms like "rizz" or grasp the meaning behind "skibidi." It bridges generational divides while respecting the origins of these expressions.

This resource also sheds light on how TV moments continue to influence the way language evolves.

Summary

Viral TV slang is changing how generations communicate. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from our look into this phenomenon.

TV shows and online platforms are behind the rapid spread of terms like "rizz" and "skibidi." Jackie Baucom, Gabb Staff Writer, highlights why this matters:

"When we take the time to learn about the way our children speak, it shows kids that we prioritize our relationship and communication" [41].

Key Insights

These points highlight how slang shaped by media can transform the way we interact.

The Gen Z Slang Directory is a helpful tool for decoding these expressions in context, making it easier to connect across generations while honoring the roots of modern slang.

As media continues to influence language, staying current with these shifts helps foster stronger, more meaningful connections.