Gen Z Slang List
Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.
Shade (Throwing Shade)
A subtle, indirect insult or criticism—“throwing shade” means publicly dissing someone without outright name-calling.
Contextual Example:
“She made a sly comment about my outfit—total shade.”
Synonyms / Related Terms:
- Subtweeting
- Indirect burn
- Passive-aggressive
Alternate Spellings / Variations:
- Shady
History & Evolution:
Rooted in Black and LGBTQ+ ballroom culture, “shade” means a refined form of insult. Became mainstream through drag shows, Twitter, and pop icon feuds.
Cultural Relevance:
Represents Gen Z’s love for witty, indirect jabs. Public figures and fans “throw shade” in social media spats or music lyric references.
Practical Usage:
- Appropriateness & Tone: Informal, can be playful or hostile.
- Platform Popularity: Twitter, celebrity gossip, shady memes.
- Trend Status: Well-established slang, no sign of fading.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do recognize it can be comedic if all parties are in on the joke.
- Don’t confuse shade with outright bullying—context matters.
Common Misconceptions:
- People think “shade” must be overt. Its essence is subtlety.
Example in Pop Culture or Media:
- Reality shows feature cast members “throwing shade” in confessionals.
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No Cap
Means “no lie” or “I’m not lying,” used to emphasize truthfulness or sincerity.
Cap
To lie or exaggerate, often used in phrases like “That’s cap” to call something untrue.
Periodt
An emphatic way of saying “period,” used to finalize a statement with firm conviction.