Gen Z Slang List

Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.

Deadass

A term emphasizing absolute sincerity or truth—“I’m deadass” = “I’m being completely serious.”

emphasis
honesty
serious

Contextual Example:
“I’m deadass going to study all night—I can’t fail this test.”

Synonyms / Related Terms:

  • Seriously
  • For real
  • Straight up

Alternate Spellings / Variations:

  • Dead ass (spaced out)

History & Evolution:
Originating in New York City street slang, it spread across social media platforms. Gen Z popularized it globally as a direct way to state seriousness or strong agreement.

Cultural Relevance:
Reflects the generation’s fondness for bold expressions reinforcing truthfulness, similar to “no cap” or “frfr,” but with a distinctly urban flavor.

Practical Usage:

  • Appropriateness & Tone: Very informal. Effective for casual, emphatic statements.
  • Platform Popularity: Twitter, TikTok commentary, personal texting.
  • Trend Status: Common, especially in comedic or passionate declarations.

Dos and Don’ts:

  • Do use it to show you’re not joking or exaggerating.
  • Don’t overuse in professional environments; the term includes mild profanity (“ass”).

Common Misconceptions:

  • Some interpret “deadass” as negative or aggressive, but it usually just means “very serious.”

Example in Pop Culture or Media:

  • Memes or tweets reading “Deadass?” to convey disbelief or “I’m being for real.”