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.”
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.”