Gen Alphas (those born from around 2010 to the mid-2020s) are growing up in a world shaped by technology, social media, and rapid cultural shifts. As a result, they have their own unique set of phrases and slang that reflect their sense of humor and self-expression. These are heavily influenced by the internet, memes, and social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Roblox, as well as other online communities.
Gen Alpha Slang You Need to Know
As new cultural and fashion trends emerge (check out our Gen Alpha Preppy Style Guide to learn more), so does Gen Alpha vernacular. Below we’ve compiled some of their go-to slang, so that next time you hear the kiddos chatting with each other you’ll be able to decode their love language. Just know though that if you try to slip these into your conversations with them you’ll most likely be labelled “cringe.” So don’t embarrass yourself or your kids — unless, of course, you’re prepared for them to retreat into their rooms, roll their eyes, or laugh at you with their friends…
- “Cap/No Cap” – “Cap” means a lie, and “no cap” means no lie, or being truthful.
- “Mid” – Used to describe something as mediocre or average in quality or performance.
- “Bet” – Used to agree or confirm something, similar to saying “Okay” or “Sure.”
- “Drip” – Refers to someone’s style or fashion, especially when it’s impressive or cool.
- “Flex” – To show off, whether it’s possessions, accomplishments, or skills.
- “Sus” – Short for suspicious; used when something or someone seems off or shady.
- “Vibe Check” – A quick way to assess the mood or atmosphere, sometimes used humorously or critically.
- “Simp” – Used to describe someone who does too much for someone they like, often to an excessive or unbalanced degree.
- “Slaps” – Something that’s really good, particularly music or an experience that stands out.
- “Periodt” – used to indicate that something is final or non-negotiable and to add emphasis to a point.
- “Mood” – A term to express that something resonates with your feelings or situation (often used in a relatable context).
- “It’s giving…” – Used to describe the overall vibe or aesthetic of something, like “It’s giving main character energy.”
- “Rizz/Rizzler” – “Rizz” comes from “charisma,” as in charm, seductive ability or “game.” A “Rizzler” is someone who has rizz, a.k.a, a playa.
- “Cooked” – Used to describe when you are tired or done for when something hasn’t gone your way.
- “Sigma” – Used to describe someone who is successful, attractive and with high status or someone who is really good at something.
- “Opp” – Used to describe a hater or opponent.
- “Drip” – Used to describe something that is very cool, awesome or stylish.
- “She/He Ate” – Having admiration/praise for someone who did a great job at something, often in the context of fashion, music or performance.
- “Yas Queen/“Slay Queen!” – Similar to “she ate,” said in a fun enthusiastic way to support someone or something, especially when they’re doing something impressive (or fashionable).
Are any of these used in your home? Personally, I like to tease my kids by speaking in the same way, which usually results in looks of disdain and disgust; but if I get even a small chuckle or an, “ahhh mom, please just STOP it,” then I consider it a win for the day. At least they say “please,” so I can’t be doing everything wrong, right?
Have I missed any? If so, let me know in the comments below!
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