Gen Z Slang List
Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.
Gatekeep
When someone withholds information, access, or resources to keep exclusivity or authority in a community.
Contextual Example:
“Don’t gatekeep that amazing skincare brand—share the link!”
Synonyms / Related Terms:
- Hoard info
- Exclude
- Block access
Alternate Spellings / Variations:
- Gatekeeping (gerund form)
History & Evolution:
Long used in fandom and hobby circles, “gatekeeping” was popularized in mainstream social media discourse to criticize elitist or exclusionary attitudes.
Cultural Relevance:
Highlights Gen Z’s push for inclusivity and open-source information. Often used to call out people who refuse to share tips or “how-tos.”
Practical Usage:
- Appropriateness & Tone: Informal yet serious in calling out behavior.
- Platform Popularity: Twitter call-outs, TikTok rants.
- Trend Status: Continues to be relevant in niche communities and brand spaces.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do use it to encourage sharing helpful resources.
- Don’t accuse someone of gatekeeping without clarity—they might just be private.
Common Misconceptions:
- Some confuse personal privacy with gatekeeping; not sharing personal info isn’t necessarily gatekeeping.
Example in Pop Culture or Media:
- Hashtags like #DontGatekeep or “Stop Gatekeeping” encouraging open knowledge.