Gen Z Slang List

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

Sus

Short for “suspicious,” implying something or someone is shady, off, or questionable.

#off
#questionable
#shady

Contextual Example:
“He’s acting sus—why is he avoiding our questions?”

Synonyms / Related Terms:

  • Sketchy
  • Fishy

Alternate Spellings / Variations:

  • Sussy (playful variation)

History & Evolution:
Popularized significantly by the game Among Us, where players label each other “sus” if they’re possibly an impostor. The term already existed but skyrocketed in usage during the pandemic-era gaming boom.

Cultural Relevance:
Embodying Gen Z’s love for brevity, “sus” is widely used in memes, tweets, and casual conversation to denote distrust or suspicion.

Practical Usage:

  • Appropriateness & Tone: Informal; works in gaming culture or playful contexts.
  • Platform Popularity: Huge on Twitch, Discord, TikTok.
  • Trend Status: Still prevalent, though it peaked during Among Us hype.

Dos and Don’ts:

  • Do use it casually to point out odd behavior.
  • Don’t use it for serious accusations—“sus” can trivialize real issues.

Common Misconceptions:

  • Some think it only applies to Among Us. In reality, it predates the game and is part of internet slang for suspicious actions.

Example in Pop Culture or Media:

  • “Sus” memes and viral clips from Among Us streams on Twitch.

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W

Short for “win,” often used to celebrate success or approval.

Gaming
victory
success
praise

L

Means “loss” or “fail,” referencing an unsuccessful outcome.

Gaming
loss
fail
disappointment

Salty

Feeling upset or bitter, often in a humorous way, usually over minor disappointments.

Gaming
upset
bitter
reaction