Slang Dictionary
Commonly used Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang terms, as defined by real teachers.
When you’re way off on what’s in, don't worry. Because when it comes to the latest slang, we’ve enlisted the expert help of the Great Clips Student Slang Translators. Together, we’ve defined some terms parents need to know before the first day so you can understand your kids enough to get them the latest looks they want and the back-to-school confidence they need.
Ate
[ate] verb
The term “ate” is most often used to express admiration or praise for an individual’s actions, fashion choices or performance, but can be used in a variety of other contexts.
Is that a new haircut? Your stylist ate.
Beige Flag
[beige flag] phrase
A “red flag” is often used to denote poor behavior of an individual that may be cause for concern. A “beige flag” refers to behavior that is not necessarily concerning but may go against societal norms or fall into the category of a charming quirk.
My beige flag is that I’ll only do my homework with scented markers.
Bruh
[br-uh] noun
“Bruh” is synonymous with the terms “bro” and “dude” as an informal way to address a friend.
Bruh, that biology test was so hard!
Cap
[cap] verb
The term “cap” or “capping” refers to a lie, falsehood or exaggeration. Similarly, if an individual says, “no cap,” it means that they are telling the truth.
Dude, I got 100% on the spelling test. No cap.
Caught in 4K
[caught in four kay] phrase
Similarly to the phrase “caught red handed,” “caught in 4K” may be used when an individual is caught doing something with irrefutable evidence, especially if it was embarrassing or unusual.
Mom, Sarah stole my favorite shirt! Caught her in 4K.
Cook
[cook] verb
“Cook” means to take extra time and care for a given action. It is typically used in the phrase “let him/her cook,” which means to let that individual finish their sentence or complete an intended action.
Josh, stop interrupting Mrs. Ramsay! Let her cook!
Delulu
[de-loo-loo] adjective
Delulu is synonymous with “delusional” and is often used in a humorous, lighthearted fashion. It describes a person who holds unrealistic or overly idealistic views or opinions.
You’re delulu if you think I’m going to start school without a fresh haircut!
FR
[for – real] phrase
FR is texting shorthand for the phrase “for real.” The term is often used to express agreement or emphasize an individual’s point of view. It can be used by itself, within the phrase “FRFR” (for real, for real) or “be so FR” (you’re kidding me).
You FR aced the math test?
Gas
[gas] verb
Often used within the phrase “gas [him/her] up” or “gas you up,” the term is used to describe the action of praising an individual.
Did you see the pic Megan posted of her new haircut? I’m gonna gas her up in the comments.
Girly pop
[girl-ee pop] noun/adjective
Girls and women refer to each other as “girly pop” casually, similarly to how the word “dude” has historically been used. Girly pop is also used to describe a female who is ultra-feminine, follows trends and has a bubbly personality.
Your outfit is so girly pop – I’m obsessed!
Go off
[go off] phrase
The phrase “go off” is used to denote enthusiastic approval or acceptance and is sometimes followed by the term “queen” or “king.”
Your new claw clip is so cute. Go off, queen!
It’s giving
[it’s gih-ving] phrase
Used either on its own or in tandem with a descriptive word, “it’s giving” describes the appearance or vibe of an individual, object or idea with a dramatic connotation. On its own, “it’s giving” is simply a compliment.
Did you get layers in your hair? It’s giving 90s – I love it!
Mewing
[m-you-ing] verb
Mewing is the act of pressing one’s tongue to the roof of their mouth and simultaneously swallowing to create the illusion of a sharper and more pronounced jawline, rendering them unable to speak. Rather than vocalizing the term, mewing individuals will mime a shushing signal and drag a finger across their jawline to signal their mew-related silence.
Sorry Principal Johnson, Donny can’t talk right now. He’s mewing.
Mid
[mid] adjective
Derived from the word “middle,” mid is synonymous with average, mediocre, boring or lackluster.
The pizza they served in the cafeteria today was mid at best.
Preppy
[prep-ee] adjective
Historically, “preppy” has referred to an upper-class fashion style consisting of neutral collared shirts, tennis skirts, boat shoes, blazers and the like. The term has since taken on a new meaning and now refers to a bright, colorful and feminine fashion aesthetic.
Hannah, I love your pink belt bag. That is so preppy!
Rizz
[riz] noun
Stemming from the word “charisma,” rizz refers to the style, charm or attractiveness of an individual.
Did you see Colin’s new haircut? He’s got some serious rizz.
Say less
[say less] phrase
A simplified version of the phrase “say no more,” say less is used to express excitement or agreement with a statement or topic.
Wolf cuts are in this year? Say less.
Sending me
[sending me] phrase
“Sending me” is an exclamation of shock, an exaggerated reaction or a declaration of entertainment. One might use this phrase if they witnessed a statement, behavior or action that was particularly funny.
Bruh, this is sending me right now.
Sigma
[sig-muh] adjective
The word “alpha” historically refers to a successful and popular person with strong leadership qualities. A “sigma” possesses the same qualities as an alpha but is humbler and more understated. Sometimes, “sigma” is used as a filler word or random exclamation while playing video games or other tasks.
That first day of school fit makes you look so sigma, Emily.
Skibidi
[skib-i-di] adjective
Originating from scat singing and popularized by Gen Alpha-beloved YouTube channels, skibidi is a filler word often interjected into random parts of a sentence, exclaimed randomly or simply used in incomprehensible ways.
That’s so skibidi, Mrs. Bono.
Stan
[stan] noun
Derived from the word “fan,” a stan is an extremely devoted, enthusiastic and overzealous supporter of a person. The term is often used hyperbolically to denote appreciation for a celebrity, friend or other individual.
I’m such a Mrs. Hanks stan – did you hear she doesn’t give any homework?
Touch grass
[touch grass] phrase
“Touch grass” is an idiom used to suggest that someone should spend more time outdoors and less time on the internet or playing video games.
Touch grass, Rebecca – it's a beautiful day outside and school starts tomorrow!
W / L
[double you] / [elle] noun
W is a shortened version of “win” meaning gain or achievement and L is a shortened version of “loss” in reference to unsatisfactory results. If spoken verbally rather than written, W is often pronounced “dub.”
I’m going to be valedictorian! That’s a W.
You forgot to get a haircut for the first day of school? Take this L.
You’re him / You’re her
[you’re him / you’re her] phrase
This phrase is used as a compliment to describe a successful person who excels and appears confident.
Zachary, great job on that presentation. You’re him!
Now that you’re in the know on the latest slang the kids are using, you’re ready to help your kids get the look they want for the new school year. Visit GreatClips.com/BackToSchool to check out our online lookbook and test your knowledge with our slang quiz for $5 off a back-to-school haircut.
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