Gen Z Slang List
Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.
Cap
To lie or exaggerate, often used in phrases like “That’s cap” to call something untrue.
Contextual Example:
“You said you ran 10 miles this morning? That’s cap.”
Synonyms / Related Terms:
- Lie
- BS
- False
Alternate Spellings / Variations:
- Cap emoji (🧢) is sometimes used in place of the word
History & Evolution:
Derived from African American Vernacular English (AAVE). Gained mainstream traction through hip-hop lyrics and social platforms, where calling “cap” became a fun way to express doubt.
Cultural Relevance:
Centers around Gen Z’s playful call-out culture. “Cap” quickly identifies perceived dishonesty in a conversation, meme, or boastful post.
Practical Usage:
- Appropriateness & Tone: Informal, can be playful or confrontational.
- Platform Popularity: Popular on TikTok, Twitter, and gaming chats.
- Trend Status: Common—widely recognized by younger demographics.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do use it in casual settings to call out tall tales.
- Don’t use it in serious debates or legal contexts—be clear about real vs. slang.
Common Misconceptions:
- Some assume “cap” has no deeper meaning. Actually, it has cultural roots in AAVE that predate its current popularity.
Example in Pop Culture or Media:
- Frequently seen in rap songs and internet memes labeling anything suspicious or fake as “cap.”
Similar listings
No Cap
Means “no lie” or “I’m not lying,” used to emphasize truthfulness or sincerity.
Periodt
An emphatic way of saying “period,” used to finalize a statement with firm conviction.
And I Oop
An exclamation used when someone is surprised or something unexpected happens—often a playful “oops” moment.