Internet Slang

AFK is an acronym for 'Away From Keyboard.' It is used in real-time online communication, especially in gaming and chat, to let others know that the user is temporarily stepping away from their computer or device and will not be responsive. It signifies a short-term absence.

AITA is an acronym for 'Am I The Asshole.' It is the name of a very popular subreddit where users post stories about their personal conflicts and ask the community to judge whether they were in the wrong. The acronym has since become a general internet phrase for seeking moral or social judgment on a situation.

An 'alpha male' (or 'alpha') is a term used to describe a man who is at the top of a social hierarchy. The archetype is characterized by traits such as dominance, confidence, leadership, and success, particularly with women. The term is central to the 'manosphere' subculture, but is also widely used, often ironically or critically, in mainstream discourse to refer to stereotypical masculinity.

AMA is an acronym for 'Ask Me Anything.' It is a format for an interactive interview or question-and-answer session online. A person will make a post announcing an AMA, inviting the community to ask them questions on any topic. This is a very popular format for celebrities, experts, or people with unique experiences to engage with an online audience.

'Astroturfing' is the practice of masking the sponsors of a message or organization to make it appear as though it originates from and is supported by genuine, grassroots participants. Online, this involves using sockpuppet accounts or paid actors to create a false impression of widespread public support for a product, company, or political viewpoint. The name comes from AstroTurf, a brand of fake grass.

'Ate' is a slang term used to say that someone did something flawlessly or exceptionally well. It is a high compliment for a performance, an outfit, a task, or any other action. It's a more current and concise version of 'killed it' or 'nailed it'. For example, 'She ate that' means she performed perfectly. If someone leaves no room for improvement, you might say 'she left no crumbs.'

In modern internet slang, 'aura' refers to the distinct vibe, energy, or presence that a person, place, or thing gives off. While the word has spiritual origins, its slang usage is more about an intuitive feeling or impression. The concept has been heavily meme-ified, with users creating 'aura points' or describing the 'color' of someone's aura based on their actions, often humorously.

'Bae' is a term of endearment for a significant other, similar to 'babe' or 'sweetheart.' It is also sometimes retrofitted as an acronym for 'Before Anyone Else.' The term was extremely popular in the mid-2010s and, while still understood, is sometimes now viewed as slightly dated.

In internet slang, 'bait' is content, such as a comment, post, or title, that is intentionally made to be provocative in order to lure people into an angry or argumentative response. It is a form of trolling. When someone posts obvious bait, other users will often respond with 'don't take the bait' to warn others not to engage.

Based is a multifaceted term that originally meant being oneself without caring about others' opinions. It signifies authenticity and confidence. In modern usage, it's often used to express agreement with a bold or controversial opinion, essentially meaning 'I agree' or 'that's a valid, brave point.' The term's meaning can be highly contextual and has been used by various online subcultures.

A 'beige flag' is a term used in dating to describe a peculiar, weird, or quirky trait in a partner that is not inherently good or bad. Unlike a red flag (a deal-breaker) or a green flag (a clear positive), a beige flag is something that just makes you pause and go 'huh... that's odd.' It's a neutral, and sometimes amusing, quirk that adds to a person's unique character.

Bet is a versatile slang term used to affirm something, similar to saying 'definitely,' 'for sure,' or 'I agree.' It can be a response to a statement or a plan, indicating enthusiastic agreement. It can also be used sarcastically to express defiance or to accept a challenge.

In modern slang, 'body count' refers to the number of people an individual has had sexual intercourse with. The term is often used in online discussions about dating, relationships, and sexual history. It can be a controversial topic, with discussions often revolving around whether the number matters and the different societal expectations placed on men and women.

A 'bop' is a slang term for a really good song, especially one that is catchy and makes you want to dance. It's a simple, enthusiastic compliment for a piece of music. It can also be used as a verb, 'to bop,' meaning to dance or nod your head to the music.

'Boy math' is a viral internet trend and the humorous counterpart to 'girl math.' It describes a specific type of flawed or hypocritical logic, often stereotypically attributed to men. Examples of 'boy math' include things like measuring height inaccurately, misunderstanding women's expenses while spending lavishly on their own hobbies, or having contradictory dating standards.

In video game terminology, 'buff' is the opposite of 'nerf.' It's a verb that means to make a character, weapon, or ability stronger or more effective through a game update. This is usually done to improve game balance by making underpowered options more viable. A 'buff' can also be a temporary in-game power-up.

Bussin' is a slang adjective used to describe something that is exceptionally good, especially food. If food is 'bussin',' it means it's incredibly delicious and flavorful. While most commonly used for food, it can be applied to other things like music or outfits to mean they are excellent.

In gaming, 'camping' is a tactic where a player stays hidden in a single, strategic location on the map for an extended period, waiting for opponents to come to them. It is a controversial strategy; some see it as a legitimate tactical choice, while many others view it as a low-skill, cowardly, and unsportsmanlike way to play.

In fan culture, 'canon' refers to the official, established facts and events that occur within the universe of a fictional work. It is the source material created by the original author or creator. Anything that is 'canon' is considered to be officially true to the story. This is often contrasted with 'fanon' or 'headcanon,' which are fan-created interpretations and theories.

'Cap' is slang for a lie, falsehood, or exaggeration. It can be used as a noun to label a statement as untrue. The verb form, 'to cap' or 'capping,' means to lie.

'Cap' is slang for a lie or an exaggeration. To 'cap' is to lie. Conversely, 'No Cap' is used to emphasize that you are telling the truth or being completely serious about something. It's a way of saying 'for real' or 'no joke.' The phrase is often used at the end of a statement to add a layer of authenticity.

'Catfishing' is a deceptive activity where a person creates a fake or fictional persona on a social media service to mislead someone, typically for the purpose of starting a fraudulent romantic relationship. A 'catfish' is a person who does this. They will often use someone else's photos and false biographical information to create their fake identity.

'Chad' is an archetype, primarily from incel and manosphere subcultures, for a stereotypically attractive, confident, and sexually successful 'alpha male.' In its original context, the term was used with resentment by incels to describe the men they believed were effortlessly successful with women. The term has since been co-opted by mainstream meme culture, where it is often used ironically to praise someone who is confident and unapologetic, as in the 'Virgin vs. Chad' meme format.

'Cheugy' (pronounced choo-gee) is a slang adjective used to describe something—typically aesthetics, trends, or behaviors—that is considered outdated, out of style, or trying too hard to be trendy. It's often associated with millennial trends that are no longer in fashion, like certain home decor signs ('Live, Laugh, Love'), clothing styles, or types of social media posts.

'Chronically online' is a pejorative term for someone who spends so much time on the internet that their perspective on reality has become distorted. It implies that their opinions, social skills, and understanding of the world are shaped by niche online discourse and that they have lost touch with how normal people think and interact offline. It's an insult suggesting someone needs to 'touch grass.'

The 'clean girl aesthetic' is a popular internet trend focused on a minimalist, effortless, and polished look. It emphasizes natural-looking ('no-makeup') makeup, glowing skin, slicked-back hair (often in a bun), simple gold jewelry, and a neutral-toned, well-fitting wardrobe. The overall vibe is one of being put-together and healthy without looking like you tried too hard.

'Clickbait' is a derogatory term for web content—typically a headline, thumbnail, or title—that is intentionally sensationalized, misleading, or provocative to entice users into clicking on the link. The primary goal of clickbait is to generate advertising revenue, often at the expense of quality or accuracy. The content itself rarely delivers on the promise of the headline.

In the context of social media and internet culture, 'clout' refers to a person's level of fame, influence, and social standing. Having clout means being popular and respected within a certain online community. A 'clout chaser' is someone who tries to associate with famous people or create drama purely to gain more clout for themselves.

'Copium' is a satirical slang term for a fictional drug one 'huffs' or 'ingests' to cope with loss, failure, or defeat. It's a portmanteau of 'cope' and 'opium.' The term is used to mock someone who is seen as being in denial or making up irrational excuses for why their preferred sports team, political candidate, or investment failed. It implies that their reasoning is a form of self-deception to soothe the pain of loss.

A 'copypasta' is a block of text that has been copied and pasted repeatedly across the internet, often as a joke or a meme. These blocks of text are typically shared on forums, social media, and in chat rooms. Copypastas are often absurd, humorous, or lengthy stories or rants that are posted over and over again until they become an inside joke within a community.

Cottagecore is an internet aesthetic and lifestyle movement that celebrates an idealized, romanticized vision of rural and farm life. It emphasizes simplicity, self-sufficiency, and harmony with nature. The aesthetic is characterized by things like baking bread, gardening, foraging, picnics, flowy dresses, and rustic, cozy home decor.

'Creepypasta' is a genre of online horror fiction. The name is a portmanteau of 'creepy' and 'copypasta' (blocks of text copied and pasted across the internet). These are user-generated scary stories or urban legends that are shared on forums and social media, often presented as true accounts to make them more unsettling. Famous examples include Slender Man, Jeff the Killer, and The Russian Sleep Experiment.

Cringe describes something that is so awkward, embarrassing, or out of touch that it makes you feel secondhand embarrassment. It's the feeling of vicarious discomfort you get from watching someone else's awkward moment. It can be used as both an adjective ('That was so cringe') and a verb ('I cringed so hard').

In internet slang, 'cursed' is an adjective used to describe an image, video, or comment that is deeply unsettling, bizarre, or just plain wrong. Cursed content evokes a feeling of unease and confusion. It's not about being scary in a horror movie sense, but about being unnerving due to its strange contents, poor quality, and inexplicable context.

In internet slang, 'dank' is an adjective used to describe something as being of excellent or high quality, especially a meme. 'Dank memes' are typically absurd, surreal, and ironically humorous, often deviating from mainstream meme formats. The term has an ironic coolness to it, evolving from its original meaning of 'damp and musty.'

Dark Academia is a popular internet aesthetic and subculture romanticizing a life of classical studies, literature, and the pursuit of knowledge, often with a moody, melancholic, and slightly mysterious atmosphere. The aesthetic is heavily inspired by classic literature, European university life, and historical periods like the 19th century. Common visual themes include tweed jackets, old libraries, gothic architecture, and handwritten letters.

'Deadass' is a slang adverb used for emphasis, meaning 'completely,' 'seriously,' or 'for real.' It's a very strong way to assert the truthfulness of a statement or to ask if someone else is being serious. It can be used to modify an adjective or as a standalone affirmation or question.

'Delulu' is a playful, shortened version of the word 'delusional.' It's used to describe someone who has unrealistic, far-fetched beliefs or hopes, particularly in the context of celebrity crushes or romantic fantasies. While it can be used to poke fun at someone's irrational thinking, it's often used in a self-deprecating and humorous way. The phrase 'delulu is the solulu' (delusion is the solution) suggests that embracing a little delusion can be a fun coping mechanism.

'Diamond hands' is a slang term from the online investment community for holding onto a stock or cryptocurrency with extreme conviction, refusing to sell even in the face of massive price drops, losses, or high volatility. It represents a belief that the asset will eventually pay off. The term is often represented by the 💎🙌 emojis.

'Dogpiling' is a form of online group harassment where a large number of people gang up on a single person with a flood of critical, negative, or abusive messages. This often happens after someone shares a controversial opinion or makes a mistake, leading to a massive, coordinated wave of public condemnation. It can be overwhelming and is a form of cyberbullying.

'Doomscrolling' (or 'doomsurfing') is the act of spending an excessive amount of time on a smartphone or computer absorbing a large quantity of negative, depressing, or scary news. The user often feels a compulsion to keep scrolling and reading, even though the content is making them feel sad, anxious, or angry.

'Down bad' has two main meanings. The most common modern usage is to describe a state of being desperately horny or infatuated with someone, often to an embarrassing or shameless degree. The second, more traditional meaning is to be in a state of extreme sadness, depression, or misfortune.

'Doxxing' (or 'doxing') is the malicious act of researching and broadcasting an individual's private, personally identifiable information (like their real name, home address, phone number, or workplace) online without their permission. It is a severe form of online harassment, often done to punish, intimidate, or silence the target. Doxxing can have serious real-world consequences, including stalking and physical harm.

Drip refers to a person's impeccable sense of style, particularly when it comes to fashion, accessories, and overall confidence. It describes an outfit or look that is extremely cool, fashionable, and put-together. It conveys a sense of effortless swagger.

In modern slang, an 'era' refers to a specific phase or mindset a person is currently in. It's used to humorously or dramatically frame a period of their life defined by a particular mood, interest, or type of behavior. For example, being in one's 'villain era' means prioritizing one's own needs and setting boundaries, even if it makes them seem like the 'bad guy' to others.

'F' is used as a quick and universal way to express sympathy, condolences, or to acknowledge a failure or unfortunate situation. Commenting 'F' on a post about something sad or unfortunate is the internet's equivalent of a moment of silence or saying 'my condolences.' It can be used for both serious and comically minor misfortunes.

'Fam' is a shortened version of 'family.' It's used as a term of endearment for one's closest friends, crew, or community. It signifies a deep, familial-like bond. It can be used to address a single person or a group of people.

'Fanfiction' (or fanfic) is a type of creative work written by fans of a particular piece of media (like a book, TV show, or movie) that features the characters and universe of the original work. These stories explore alternative scenarios, character relationships ('ships'), and plotlines that are not present in the official 'canon.' It is a major cornerstone of online fan culture.

'Finna' is a slang contraction of 'fixing to,' which means 'going to' or 'about to do something.' It's used to indicate a future action or intention. It is a very common feature of online communication and informal speech.

A 'finsta' is a second, more private Instagram account that a user maintains in addition to their main, public account (their 'rinsta,' or real Insta). The finsta is typically reserved for a small, trusted group of close friends and is used for posting more candid, uncurated, and often humorous or personal content that wouldn't be appropriate for their polished main feed.

'Fire' is a slang adjective used to describe something as being absolutely amazing, top-notch, or intensely good. It's a strong compliment that can be applied to music, food, fashion, or anything else that is deemed excellent.

To 'flex' means to show off one's accomplishments, possessions, or abilities in a proud or boastful way. It can refer to tangible things like money and expensive items, or intangible things like skills or achievements. While it can be seen as arrogant, it's often used in a playful or humorous manner.

FOMO is a form of social anxiety describing the feeling that you might miss out on exciting events, experiences, or opportunities that others are having. It is often exacerbated by seeing posts on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where people share highlights of their lives. It drives a desire to stay continually connected with what others are doing.

FR is a very common acronym for 'For Real.' It is used in a few ways: as a question ('fr?') to ask if someone is being serious, as an affirmation ('fr') to agree with someone, or as a statement ('frfr' - for real, for real) to emphasize one's own sincerity. It's a versatile piece of shorthand for expressing sincerity and agreement.

FTW is an acronym for 'For The Win.' It is an enthusiastic exclamation used at the end of a statement to express support for something or to declare that something is the best or will lead to success. It's a versatile expression of approval and confidence.

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where a person seeks to make another person question their own reality, memory, or sanity. In internet slang, the term is used more broadly to describe someone who is being manipulative, denying reality, or trying to convince someone that their valid feelings are wrong. It refers to someone twisting the truth to gain an advantage.

To 'gatekeep' is to control or limit access to a community, hobby, or piece of information, often in a snobbish or elitist way. Someone who is gatekeeping decides who does and does not have a right to participate in something. It's often used to criticize 'old fans' of a band who resent 'new fans,' or experts in a hobby who are unwelcoming to beginners.

'Generational trauma' is a clinical psychology term for trauma that is passed down from one generation to the next. In internet slang, however, the term is used humorously and hyperbolically to describe trivial, inherited habits, anxieties, or quirks passed down from one's parents or grandparents. For example, being unable to throw away old containers or feeling the need to arrive at the airport 5 hours early.

GG is an initialism primarily used in online gaming at the end of a match to signify sportsmanship. It's a way of telling your opponents (and teammates) that you enjoyed the match. Outside of gaming, it can be used more broadly, sometimes sarcastically, to signal that something is over or finished.

Ghosting is the act of suddenly and without explanation ending all communication with someone, typically in a romantic or dating context, but also applicable to friendships and professional relationships. The person who is 'ghosting' disappears from the other's life by no longer responding to texts, calls, or social media messages.

'Girl math' is a viral internet trend and humorous concept that describes a specific type of flawed, but internally consistent, logic used to justify spending money. It involves a series of mental gymnastics to rationalize purchases, such as considering anything paid for with cash as 'free,' calculating the cost of an item on a 'cost-per-wear' basis, or viewing a refund as 'new money.'

'Glazing' is a slang term for the act of hyping someone up, complimenting them excessively, or defending them obsequiously. It implies a level of sycophantic behavior, similar to 'riding' or 'dickriding.' It's often used to criticize someone for being an over-the-top fanboy or fangirl of a celebrity, streamer, or even a friend.

A 'glitch' is a small, often temporary, error or fault in a piece of software or hardware, especially a video game. It causes the system to behave in unexpected or unintended ways. This can range from harmless graphical errors to game-breaking bugs that stop progress. The term can also be used metaphorically for any small, unexpected problem.

A 'glow up' refers to a major and impressive transformation, usually in terms of appearance, confidence, or success. It often implies a journey from an awkward or less refined state to a more mature, attractive, and self-assured one. It can be physical, mental, or emotional.

GOAT is an acronym used to praise someone who is the absolute best in their field, typically in sports, music, or other areas of performance. Calling someone the GOAT is the highest form of compliment, implying they are not just great now, but better than anyone who has ever come before them.

'Goblin mode' is a state of being that is unapologetically self-indulgent, lazy, slovenly, or greedy, typically in a way that rejects social norms and expectations. It describes the behavior of someone who is happily embracing their most slovenly, creature-comfort state, like spending all day in bed watching TV and eating junk food without any guilt.

Godwin's Law is an internet adage that states: 'As an online discussion grows longer, the probability of a comparison involving Nazis or Hitler approaches 1.' This means that in any sufficiently long online argument, someone will inevitably make an inappropriate comparison to Hitler or the Nazis. Invoking the law is often a way of pointing out that the discussion has devolved into meaningless hyperbole and is therefore over.

'Gorpcore' is a fashion aesthetic centered around wearing functional outdoor and hiking apparel, like fleece jackets, puffer vests, cargo pants, and trail running shoes, in an everyday, urban context. The name comes from the acronym for a common trail mix snack: 'Good Ol' Raisins and Peanuts.' The aesthetic prioritizes practicality, comfort, and a rugged, utilitarian look.

'Griefing' is the act of deliberately irritating and harassing other players within an online game, using the game's own mechanics in unintended ways to ruin their experience. A 'griefer' is someone who does this for their own amusement. Examples include blocking doorways, repeatedly killing a teammate, or destroying a shared structure in a creative game like Minecraft.

In video game culture, 'grinding' is the act of performing repetitive tasks to achieve a desired outcome, such as leveling up a character or obtaining a rare item. The term has expanded to describe any hard, monotonous, or continuous work toward a goal, whether in a game, at a job, or in personal life.

GTG is a common acronym for 'Got To Go.' It is a quick and polite way to end an online conversation or chat session. It signals that the user needs to leave immediately.

'Headcanon' refers to a fan's personal, non-official beliefs, interpretations, or theories about a fictional work that are not explicitly stated in the source material. It's the set of ideas a fan holds as true 'in their head' to fill in gaps in the story, explain character motivations, or expand on the world. It is distinct from 'canon,' which is the official source material.

To be a 'Heather' is to be a person who is effortlessly beautiful, kind, and universally desired. The term is used to describe someone who everyone wants to be, or be with. It represents an idealized, almost unattainable standard of perfection. It is almost always used as a compliment or an expression of admiration.

'HODL' is a slang term in the cryptocurrency community that means to hold onto an investment rather than selling it, especially during a volatile or declining market. It represents a long-term investment philosophy that ignores short-term price fluctuations. While originating from a typo of 'hold,' it is often retrofitted as the backronym 'Hold On for Dear Life.'

A 'hot take' is a deliberately provocative, controversial, or unpopular opinion that is shared to generate discussion or debate. It's often used to preface a statement that goes against popular consensus. While sometimes genuine, the term can also imply that the opinion is poorly thought-out and designed just for attention.

'I'm screaming' is a hyperbolic reaction phrase used to express an intense emotional response, such as extreme laughter, shock, anger, or excitement. It's a way of saying that a piece of content is so funny, surprising, or outrageous that it has caused the speaker to figuratively scream. It is often used in all caps for emphasis (I'M SCREAMING).

'I'm weak' is a reaction phrase used to express that something is so hilarious it has made the speaker figuratively weak with laughter. It's a way of saying 'that's so funny I can't even.' It is often used as a comment on a funny video, meme, or joke.

IDGAF is a vulgar acronym for 'I Don't Give A F***.' It is a blunt and forceful expression of extreme indifference, apathy, or defiance. It is used to signal that the speaker does not care at all about the topic at hand, someone else's opinion, or the potential consequences of their actions.

IIRC is an acronym for 'If I Recall Correctly' or 'If I Remember Correctly.' It is used in online communication to indicate that the speaker is not 100% certain about the information they are sharing. It's a way of hedging a statement to acknowledge that their memory might be slightly off.

IJBOL is an acronym for 'I Just Burst Out Laughing.' It is a modern, Gen Z alternative to older internet laughter acronyms like LOL or LMAO. It describes a sudden, genuine, and explosive laugh, as opposed to a more gentle or forced chuckle. It conveys a more authentic and physical reaction to humor.

IMO is an acronym for 'In My Opinion.' It's a classic piece of internet shorthand used to preface a statement, clarifying that the user is expressing their personal viewpoint rather than a definitive fact. It helps to soften a potentially controversial statement or simply to frame an opinion as subjective. A common variant is IMHO, for 'In My Humble Opinion.'

'Incel' is a portmanteau of 'involuntary celibate.' It describes a member of an online subculture of men who feel unable to find a romantic or sexual partner, despite desiring one. The term is now strongly associated with a specific online ideology characterized by misogyny, resentment, self-pity, and sometimes, the advocation of violence against women and sexually active people.

IRL is an acronym for 'In Real Life.' It's used to distinguish between a person's online activities or persona and their life in the physical, offline world. It's a fundamental piece of internet jargon for separating digital interactions from tangible ones.

'It slaps' is a slang phrase used to declare that something is of high quality, excellent, or very enjoyable. It is most commonly used to describe music that is very good, but can be applied to anything, like food, movies, or art. It's a simple and enthusiastic expression of approval.

'It's giving' is a phrase used to describe the vibe, aura, or impression that something or someone is exuding. It's a versatile phrase that is usually followed by the specific vibe being referenced. It's a way of saying 'this reminds me of...' or 'this has the energy of...'.

'It's the ___ for me' is a phrasal template used to point out a specific detail about a person, object, or situation that stands out. The blank is filled with the detail in question. It can be used both positively (to highlight something you love) or negatively (to highlight something you find ridiculous or annoying).

IYKYK is an acronym that stands for 'If You Know, You Know.' It's used to reference a shared, niche experience, inside joke, or piece of knowledge that only a specific group of people will understand. It implies a sense of exclusivity and community among those 'in the know,' without having to explain the context to outsiders.

A 'jumpscare' is a technique used in horror movies, video games, and online videos to frighten the audience by appearing suddenly, usually accompanied by a loud, startling sound. In internet culture, jumpscares are a common feature of prank videos and memes, often appearing unexpectedly in otherwise normal content.

'Karen' is a pejorative slang term for a person, typically a middle-aged white woman, who is perceived as entitled, obnoxious, and demanding beyond the scope of what is considered appropriate or necessary. The archetype often involves demanding to 'speak to the manager,' asserting her privilege, and sometimes exhibiting racist behavior. The term is a stereotype and used to criticize a specific type of public behavior.

'L' is the shorthand for 'Loss' or 'Lose.' It is the direct opposite of 'W' (Win). It's used to label something as a failure, a bad thing, or a defeat. It can describe an outcome, an opinion, or an action. To 'take the L' means to accept one's defeat or failure in a given situation.

'Lag' refers to a noticeable delay between a user's action and the response from a server, most commonly experienced in online gaming or video conferencing. This delay, caused by high latency or a poor network connection, results in a choppy, delayed, or unresponsive experience. It is a universal frustration for internet users.

'Let them cook' is a slang phrase that means to let someone proceed with their action or idea without interference, even if it seems strange or unconventional. It implies that you should have patience and trust that the person knows what they're doing and will produce a good result in the end. It's a call to not be judgmental and to wait for the final outcome.

LFG is a high-energy, profane acronym for 'Let's F***ing Go.' It is a rallying cry used to express extreme excitement, hype, or readiness to do something. It's commonly used in gaming to start a match, in sports to cheer on a team, or in any situation where a burst of enthusiasm is needed.

'Lit' is a versatile adjective that primarily means something is excellent, fun, and full of energy. It's often used to describe parties, events, or songs that are particularly exciting. A secondary, older meaning of 'lit' is to be intoxicated or drunk.

When something is 'living rent free' in your head, it means you can't stop thinking about it. It describes a persistent thought, memory, song, or person that occupies your mind constantly. It can be used for both positive and negative obsessions.

LMAO is an acronym that expresses a greater degree of amusement than LOL. It's used when something is genuinely hilarious. While it contains profanity, it has become so common in online communication that it is often used casually among friends without being considered offensive. It signifies a strong, hearty laugh.

'Looksmaxxing' is a term for the practice of attempting to maximize one's physical attractiveness through various methods, including skincare, fitness, mewing (a jaw-posture technique), fashion (stylemaxxing), and sometimes plastic surgery. It is part of a broader self-improvement philosophy focused on aesthetic appeal. The term is heavily associated with online male-dominated communities, particularly the incel subculture, but has since spread to a wider audience.

'Lurking' is the act of reading or observing an online community, such as a forum, chat room, or social media feed, without actively participating or posting. A 'lurker' is a user who consumes content but does not contribute. It's a very common form of online participation.

'Main character' refers to a person who is, or acts like they are, the protagonist of a story. To have 'main character energy' is to be confident, charismatic, and live your life in a cinematic way. However, it can also be used negatively to describe someone who is self-absorbed and acts as if everyone else is just a supporting character in their life.

An internet meme is a piece of media, often humorous, that spreads rapidly across the internet. It can be an image, video, phrase, or concept that is shared, remixed, and reinterpreted by many different users. Memes are a fundamental part of online culture, evolving quickly and serving as a shared cultural touchstone for online communities.

MFW is an acronym for 'My Face When.' It is a meme format used to introduce a relatable situation, which is then paired with a reaction image or GIF that is meant to represent the user's facial expression in that scenario. It is a way to visually and humorously convey a specific emotional reaction.

Mid is a derogatory or dismissive term used to describe something as merely average, mediocre, or of low quality. It's often used to express disappointment or a lack of enthusiasm for something that was expected to be better. It implies that something is unexceptional and not worth the hype.

An MMORPG is an acronym for a 'Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game.' It is a genre of video game that combines the character progression and story of a role-playing game with the ability to be played alongside hundreds or thousands of other players in a persistent online world. Players create a character and interact with other players to explore, go on quests, and fight monsters.

'Nerf' is a verb used in video gaming to describe when a developer weakens a character, weapon, or ability in a game update to improve game balance. It is done to reduce the power of an element that is considered overpowered (OP). The term can also be used outside of gaming to refer to something being made less effective.

NGL is an acronym for 'Not Gonna Lie.' It's used as a preface to a statement to indicate that the speaker is about to share a candid opinion, a potentially unpopular take, or a vulnerable admission. It adds a tone of frankness and honesty to the message.

'No Cap' is a phrase used to emphasize the truthfulness and authenticity of a statement. It's a way of saying 'no lie,' 'for real,' or 'I'm being completely serious.' It's often added to the end of a sentence to underscore its sincerity.

'Noob' is a derogatory term for a 'newbie' or newcomer to a particular activity, most commonly online gaming. It implies not just a lack of experience, but also a lack of skill and an unwillingness to learn. It's a common insult used to belittle someone's poor performance.

NPC stands for 'Non-Player Character,' a term from video games for characters controlled by the game's AI, not a human player. As slang, it's a derogatory term for someone who doesn't think for themselves, follows trends blindly, or seems to lack independent thought and internal monologue, as if they're just following a script.

NSFW is an acronym and content warning for 'Not Safe For Work.' It is used to label links, images, videos, or text that contain content, such as nudity, profanity, or violence, that would be inappropriate to view in a professional environment or in public. It serves as a crucial piece of internet etiquette, warning users to use discretion before clicking.

NVM is a common acronym for 'Nevermind.' It's used in text and chat to quickly dismiss a previous question or statement. It indicates that the topic is no longer important, that the user has found the answer themselves, or that they simply don't want to talk about it anymore.

OFC is a simple and widely used acronym for 'Of Course.' It's used in texting and online chat to quickly affirm something, express agreement, or state something that is obvious.

OMW is a simple and very common acronym for 'On My Way.' It is used in text messages and chats to quickly inform someone that you have already started your journey and are heading to the destination.

OOMF is an acronym for 'One Of My Followers.' It is primarily used on social media platforms like Twitter to talk about one of your followers without revealing their identity. It's a way to subtweet or vaguely refer to someone within your own social circle online, whether to praise them, critique them, or share a story about them.

OP is a context-dependent acronym with two primary meanings. 1) 'Original Poster': In forums like Reddit, or in any comment thread, the OP is the person who made the initial post that started the conversation. 2) 'Overpowered': In gaming, OP describes a character, weapon, or strategy that is too strong, creating an unfair advantage and disrupting game balance.

OTP is an acronym for 'One True Pairing.' In fan culture, this is a fan's absolute favorite fictional couple. It represents the ultimate romantic pairing that a fan is most passionate about and supports above all others. An OTP is a fan's ideal 'ship,' and they will often consume and create a lot of content, like fanfiction and art, centered on them.

'Periodt' is a more emphatic and sassy version of 'period.' It's used at the end of a sentence to signal that the point being made is final, non-negotiable, and the discussion is over. The 't' at the end adds a final, sharp sound that mimics a definitive stop. It adds a tone of finality and attitude.

A 'pick me' is a pejorative term for someone (often a woman, in the case of a 'pick me girl') who claims or acts as if they are 'not like others' to gain validation from an opposing group. This often involves putting down members of their own group. For example, a 'pick me girl' might try to appeal to men by claiming she's 'one of the guys' and criticizing other women for being too 'dramatic' or 'basic'.

POV is an acronym for 'Point of View.' In internet culture, especially on TikTok and in memes, it's used as a caption to frame a video or image as if the viewer is experiencing a specific situation firsthand. It sets the scene and tells the audience what perspective they should be adopting.

PvE is an acronym for 'Player versus Environment.' It is a term used in video games to describe gameplay where a player or a team of players competes against computer-controlled enemies, obstacles, and challenges within the game's world. This is in contrast to PvP ('Player versus Player'), where players compete against each other. Most story-based or cooperative games are PvE.

'Pwned' is a slang term from leetspeak (hacker/gamer slang) meaning to utterly defeat, dominate, or control someone or something. It is a more emphatic and triumphant version of 'owned.' It's most commonly used in gaming to taunt an opponent who has been completely outplayed. It can also refer to a system being successfully hacked.

'Quiet quitting' is a workplace trend and slang term that describes the act of not outright quitting a job, but instead doing the absolute bare minimum required to not get fired. It involves rejecting the 'hustle culture' mentality of going above and beyond, and instead just performing one's core duties and setting firm boundaries to maintain a better work-life balance.

'Ratio' (or 'to be ratioed') is a phenomenon on social media, especially Twitter, where a reply to a post receives significantly more likes and retweets than the original post itself. This is seen as a definitive and public takedown of the original post, indicating that the community overwhelmingly agrees with the reply and disapproves of the original take. Sometimes users will simply reply 'ratio' to a bad take, as a challenge to the community to make it happen.

A 'rickroll' is one of the most famous internet pranks of all time. It involves tricking someone into clicking a hyperlink that they believe will lead to a specific piece of content, but instead redirects them to the music video for Rick Astley's 1987 song 'Never Gonna Give You Up.' To be 'rickrolled' is to fall for this bait-and-switch prank.

Rizz is modern slang for skill in charming or seducing a potential romantic partner. It is a shortened form of 'charisma.' It can be used as a noun to describe a person's natural charm ('He has a lot of rizz') or as a verb ('He rizzed her up'). The term describes a person's ability to flirt and attract others effortlessly.

A 'rizzler' is a person who is exceptionally skilled at 'rizzing' people up—that is, they have a lot of 'rizz,' or charisma. It's a noun used to describe a smooth, charming, and successful flirt. The term is often used humorously and can be associated with over-the-top, almost cartoonish levels of charm.

RN is a simple and ubiquitous acronym for 'Right Now.' It is used in texting and online messaging to add a sense of immediacy to a statement or question.

RNG is an acronym for 'Random Number Generator,' which is a computer algorithm that produces a sequence of numbers that lack any discernible pattern. In gaming, RNG determines all chance-based events, such as whether an attack will be a critical hit, what items an enemy will drop, or the layout of a procedurally generated map. 'RNG' is often used as a synonym for 'luck.'

A 'rug pull' is a malicious scam, primarily in the cryptocurrency and NFT space, where developers attract investment in a new project, and then abruptly abandon it, disappearing with all the investors' funds. This is done by removing liquidity from the project's trading pool, causing the token's value to plummet to zero. It's called a rug pull because the developers metaphorically pull the rug out from under the investors.

To be 'salty' is to be upset, annoyed, or bitter, usually over something minor or trivial. It often implies that someone is overreacting to a loss, a joke, or a minor inconvenience. It's commonly used in gaming communities to describe a player who is a sore loser.

'Sealioning' is a form of online trolling or harassment that consists of relentlessly pursuing someone in a debate by asking for evidence or asking repeated questions, all while maintaining a pretense of civility and sincerity. The goal of the 'sealion' is not to learn, but to exhaust the opponent and make them appear unreasonable. It's a bad-faith tactic designed to frustrate someone into silence.

SFW is an acronym and content label for 'Safe For Work.' It is the direct opposite of NSFW ('Not Safe For Work'). It is used to indicate that content, such as an image, video, or link, is appropriate to be viewed in a professional environment, in public, or by all audiences. It is often used to clarify that a link from a typically NSFW source is, in this particular case, clean.

'Shade' refers to the act of making a subtle, artful, and often witty insult or criticism. 'Throwing shade' is the act of delivering this insult, which can be done through backhanded compliments, passive-aggressive comments, or pointed non-verbal cues. It is distinct from an overt insult in its subtlety.

A 'shill' is a person who promotes or endorses something (like a product, service, or cryptocurrency) while pretending to be an impartial third party. To 'shill' is the act of this disingenuous promotion. The shill has a hidden agenda, usually a vested interest in the success of what they are promoting. It's a derogatory term implying deceit.

In fan culture, 'shipping' is the act of wanting two or more characters (from a TV show, movie, book, etc.) to enter into a romantic relationship. A 'ship' is the pairing itself. Fans who 'ship' these characters will often create fan fiction, art, and discussions centered around this desired relationship, regardless of whether it is canon (official) in the source material.

'Shitposting' is the act of posting content online that is intentionally of low quality, nonsensical, ironic, or aggressively off-topic. The goal of shitposting is not to engage in constructive dialogue, but to entertain, confuse, or derail a conversation with absurd humor. It is a defining feature of many online subcultures and is seen as an art form in its own right.

In video games, a 'side quest' is an optional mission that is not essential to finishing the main story. In internet slang, the term is used as a metaphor for getting sidetracked or distracted from one's main goal or task in real life. It refers to any unplanned detour or activity that you end up doing on the way to your intended destination.

In the online 'manosphere,' a 'sigma male' is an archetype of a man who is successful and popular like an 'alpha male,' but who operates outside of the normal social hierarchy by choice. He is the quintessential 'lone wolf'—introverted, self-reliant, and indifferent to the opinions of others. The term is often used both sincerely within its subculture and ironically in memes to parody the concept.

Simp is a derogatory term for someone (usually a man) who is seen as being overly submissive or attentive to someone else (usually a woman) in hopes of winning their affection or attention, often without reciprocation. It implies that the person is doing 'too much' and sacrificing their own dignity. The term is controversial and often criticized for its potentially misogynistic undertones.

'Simping' is the verb form of the slang term 'simp.' It describes the action of being overly eager, attentive, or submissive to someone, usually a romantic interest, in a desperate attempt to win their affection or approval. It implies that the person is doing 'too much' and that their efforts are cringe-worthy or undignified.

A 'situationship' is a romantic or sexual relationship that remains undefined. It's more than a casual hookup but lacks the explicit commitment, labels, or clear future of a formal relationship. People in a situationship may have deep feelings for each other but have not had the 'what are we?' conversation, leaving the relationship in a state of ambiguity.

In modern slang, 'slay' means to do an outstanding job, succeed impressively, or look amazing. It is a strong term of praise and empowerment, often used to compliment someone's performance, appearance, or confidence.

In internet slang, 'sleep paralysis demon' is a humorous term for a person, animal, or object that is strange, unsettling, or just sitting in a dark corner of a room. The term is a hyperbolic and comedic co-opting of the clinical phenomenon of sleep paralysis, where individuals may experience frightening hallucinations. It's used to describe anything that looks out of place or creepy in a funny way.

SMDH is an acronym for 'Shaking My Damn Head.' It's an intensified version of SMH ('Shaking My Head'). It is used to express an even greater level of disappointment, disgust, or disbelief at something perceived as incredibly foolish or contemptible.

SMH is an initialism used to express disappointment, disapproval, or disbelief in response to something perceived as foolish or nonsensical. It's the digital equivalent of the physical gesture of shaking one's head in frustration or disbelief. It can range in tone from lighthearted exasperation to genuine disgust.

'Snatched' is a high compliment used to describe someone or something that looks incredibly good, perfect, or flawless, particularly in terms of fashion, hair, or makeup. It can also refer to a well-defined physique, as in a 'snatched waist.' It is a step above 'on fleek' or 'on point.'

A 'sockpuppet' is a fake online account created by a person to deceive others. These accounts are used for various purposes, such as anonymously praising one's own work, creating the illusion of grassroots support for an opinion (astroturfing), circumventing a ban, or attacking opponents without using one's main identity. It is a fundamentally deceptive practice.

A 'speedrun' is the act of playing through a video game, or a section of it, with the goal of completing it in the fastest time possible. This often involves using glitches, clever strategies, and memorizing optimal paths. As a slang term, 'to speedrun' can mean to do any task very quickly.

'Spilling the tea' means sharing gossip, secrets, or the inside scoop on a situation. The 'tea' is the juicy information. It's an invitation to share all the details of a dramatic or interesting event.

'Squad' refers to a person's core group of close friends. It implies a sense of loyalty, camaraderie, and shared identity. The term is often used in the phrase 'squad goals' to describe an aspirational image or activity that a person wants to share with their own friend group.

A 'stan' is an extremely zealous and devoted fan of a celebrity, musician, or public figure. The term can be used as a noun ('I'm a huge stan of her work') or a verb ('We stan a confident queen'). While it can simply mean being a big fan, it often carries the connotation of being overly obsessive, to the point of being stalker-like, though it is usually used in a more lighthearted, hyperbolic way.

'Stonks' is an intentional misspelling of 'stocks,' associated with a popular internet meme. The meme features the 'Meme Man' character in front of a stock market chart with the caption 'Stonks.' The term is used humorously and ironically to refer to the stock market, financial decisions, and often, questionable or amusing financial gains.

A 'strawman' is a logical fallacy where a person intentionally misrepresents their opponent's argument to make it easier to attack. Instead of addressing the actual argument, they create a weaker, distorted version (the 'strawman') and refute that instead. It's an intellectually dishonest debate tactic that is extremely common in online political and social discussions.

Sus is a shortened version of 'suspicious' or 'suspect.' It's used to describe someone or something that seems shady, questionable, or dishonest. The term existed for years but exploded in popularity with the release of the online multiplayer game 'Among Us' in 2018, where players use it to call out others they believe to be an impostor.

In gaming slang, 'sweaty' is a derogatory adjective for a player who is trying too hard to win, especially in a casual game mode. It's a synonym for 'tryhard.' The term evokes the image of someone sweating from the intensity of their effort. A 'sweat' is a noun for such a player.

TBH is an acronym for 'To Be Honest.' It is used to signal that the speaker is about to offer a sincere opinion, a confession, or a thought they might otherwise hold back. It adds a layer of vulnerability or frankness to a statement and is a staple of digital communication for expressing genuine feelings.

TFW is an acronym for 'That Feeling When.' It's used to introduce a relatable, often specific, emotional situation. It's typically followed by a description of that situation and accompanied by an image, GIF, or video that captures the associated emotion. It is a foundational meme format.

'The Ick' is a term used in dating to describe a sudden, visceral feeling of cringe or repulsion towards a person you were previously attracted to. It's often triggered by a small, specific, and sometimes irrational turn-off (like the way they run for a bus or chew their food). Once you get 'The Ick,' the romantic attraction often vanishes and is very difficult, if not impossible, to get back.

'Thicc' is a slang adjective used to describe a person, typically a woman, who has a full, curvaceous body, particularly with wide hips and a large bottom. Unlike 'fat,' 'thicc' is almost always used as a compliment and is associated with a body shape that is considered attractive and desirable in many online cultures.

In slang, 'thirsty' is a derogatory term for someone who is overly eager or desperate, usually for attention, compliments, or romantic validation online. It implies a sense of shamelessness in seeking validation from others, often through 'thirsty' posts (like suggestive selfies) or by aggressively trying to get someone's attention.

TL;DR is used in two primary ways. First, it's used by the author of a long post or article as a heading for a brief summary of the main points. Second, it can be used by a commenter to dismiss a long piece of text they couldn't be bothered to read. The tone can be either helpful (as a summary) or dismissive (as a comment).

TMI is an acronym for 'Too Much Information.' It is used as a response to someone sharing details that are too personal, intimate, or graphic for the current social context. Saying 'TMI' is a way of signaling that the person has overshared and the information is making you uncomfortable.

'To the moon' is a rallying cry used by investors, especially in cryptocurrency and stock communities, to express strong belief that the price of an asset is going to experience a massive, rapid increase. It's a statement of extreme optimism and hype, often represented by the rocket emoji (🚀).

'Touch grass' is an insult or a piece of advice directed at someone who is perceived to be spending too much time online and has lost touch with reality. It's a command to go outside, disconnect from the internet, and ground themselves in the real world.

An internet 'troll' is a person who intentionally posts inflammatory, provocative, or off-topic messages in an online community with the primary goal of upsetting users or disrupting the conversation for their own amusement. 'Trolling' is the act of doing this. It is a form of online harassment, and the intent is to get a reaction, not to engage in genuine debate.

A 'tryhard' is a derogatory term for a person who puts an excessive amount of effort into something, like a video game or a social situation, to the point where it seems desperate or unsportsmanlike. In gaming, it's used to insult someone who is playing too seriously in a casual setting. In social contexts, it describes someone who is trying too hard to be cool or popular.

The 'uncanny valley' is a concept used to describe the feeling of unease or revulsion that people experience when they see a robot or animation that looks almost, but not exactly, like a real human. The 'valley' is the dip in our affinity for the replica when it gets too close to lifelike without achieving it. In internet slang, it's used to describe anything (like a CGI character, a doll, or a heavily filtered photo) that is unsettlingly close to human.

'Understood the assignment' is a phrase of high praise for someone who has perfectly fulfilled and even exceeded the expectations of a task, role, or situation. It implies that they not only did what was required but also captured the exact tone, style, and spirit needed for success. It's often used for fashion, performances, or clever social media posts.

In internet slang, 'unserious' is an adjective used to describe a person, situation, or piece of content that is endearingly silly, goofy, or absurd. It's often used in a positive or affectionate way to point out behavior that is playful and not meant to be taken seriously. It highlights a lack of gravity or formality.

In internet slang, 'valid' is used to affirm that someone's feelings, opinions, or experiences are reasonable and legitimate. It is a term of validation and support, often used to show empathy. Saying 'that's valid' is a way of acknowledging someone's perspective without necessarily having to agree with it.

A 'vibe check' is the act of spontaneously assessing someone's mood, energy, or overall 'vibe.' It can be a genuine question about how someone is feeling, or a humorous, often aggressive, meme about judging someone's energy. To 'pass the vibe check' means you have a good, agreeable energy. To 'fail the vibe check' means your energy is off, negative, or weird.

'W' is a shorthand for 'Win.' It is used to label something as a success, a good thing, or a victory. It can describe a person, an action, an opinion, or an outcome. It is a quick and common way to express approval and positivity.

W and L are abbreviations for 'Win' and 'Loss.' They are used to quickly label an outcome, opinion, or person as being good (a win) or bad (a loss). A 'W' signifies a success, a good decision, or a praiseworthy thing. An 'L' signifies a failure, a bad take, or something embarrassing.

XP is the abbreviation for 'Experience Points,' a fundamental concept in video games, especially role-playing games (RPGs). Players earn XP by completing tasks, defeating enemies, or discovering new locations. Accumulating enough XP allows a player's character to 'level up,' becoming more powerful and unlocking new abilities. The concept is sometimes used metaphorically for gaining life experience.

Yeet is a versatile exclamation that can be used as a verb to mean throwing something, typically with high velocity and a lack of concern for the object being thrown. It can also be used as a general expression of excitement, approval, or surprise. Its meaning is heavily dependent on context.

YMMV is an acronym for 'Your Mileage May Vary.' It's a disclaimer used in online discussions to indicate that someone's personal experience with a product, service, or situation may not be the same as others'. It is a way of acknowledging subjectivity and managing expectations. It essentially means 'this was my experience, but yours might be different.'

A 'zaddy' is a slang term for a handsome, stylish, and confident older man who is attractive and has a lot of swagger. It's a more modern and intense version of a 'daddy' or 'silver fox.' The 'z' adds an extra flair and implies a higher level of style and appeal.