Gen Z Slang List
Explore popular Gen Z slang terms with definitions, examples, and cultural insights. Perfect for marketers, educators, and curious parents.
Thirst Trap
A photo or video—often revealing or seductive—posted to elicit compliments, likes, or romantic/sexual interest.
Contextual Example:
“She posted a thirst trap in a swimsuit right before Valentine’s Day.”
Synonyms / Related Terms:
- Bait pic
- Seductive selfie
Alternate Spellings / Variations:
- Thirst-trapping (verb form)
History & Evolution:
Came from social media users discussing revealing pics designed to make viewers “thirsty” (slang for lustful attention). Exploded with Instagram and Snapchat.
Cultural Relevance:
Shows Gen Z’s comfort with playful self-expression and seeking validation or compliments online.
Practical Usage:
- Appropriateness & Tone: Informal, flirty. Normal in personal feeds but may be frowned upon in professional contexts.
- Platform Popularity: Instagram, TikTok dance or lip-sync in revealing outfits, OnlyFans context.
- Trend Status: Ongoing, as social media thrives on eye-catching content.
Dos and Don’ts:
- Do be mindful of boundaries—consent and comfort levels matter.
- Don’t shame others for posting thirst traps if they enjoy the attention.
Common Misconceptions:
- Some think it’s purely vain; many see it as body-positive or confidence-boosting.
Example in Pop Culture or Media:
- Celebrities calling their curated beach selfies or lingerie pics “thirst traps.”