Gen Z Slang List
Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.
Glow Up
A noticeable positive change in someone’s appearance, personality, or lifestyle—usually implying increased confidence and attractiveness.
Contextual Example:
“Did you see her glow up after summer break? She looks happier and healthier.”
Synonyms / Related Terms:
- Transformation
- Level up
- Makeover
Alternate Spellings / Variations:
- Glow-up (with a hyphen)
History & Evolution:
Started as a way to describe puberty or weight-loss transformations on social media. Expanded to emotional or mental improvements as well.
Cultural Relevance:
Emphasizes Gen Z’s focus on self-care and personal evolution, often showcased in before-and-after TikTok videos or Instagram posts.
Practical Usage:
- Appropriateness & Tone: Uplifting, encouraging. Great for marketing about self-improvement or style changes.
- Platform Popularity: TikTok “glow up” challenges, Instagram reels.
- Trend Status: Consistently popular in personal branding.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do celebrate genuine progress or changes, whether physical or mental.
- Don’t equate a glow up only with weight loss or superficial beauty.
Common Misconceptions:
- Many assume it’s purely about looks; it can also mean emotional growth or career success.
Example in Pop Culture or Media:
- TikTok hashtag #glowup features style makeovers, fitness journeys, or confidence boosts.
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Extra
Describes someone or something that’s over-the-top, dramatic, or unnecessarily excessive.
Low-key
Quietly, secretly, or without seeking attention; an understated feeling or admission.
High-key
Openly, obviously, or loudly; the opposite of “low-key.”