Ever hear your kid say something is so cringe? How about slay? Or POV? Story? Ring a bell? Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, has brought on a bunch of new expressions. Inspired by digital culture, gaming, and more, this generation comes with its own little glossary.
We prepared a list of 20 very popular expressions—you need to start somewhere—to help you understand what your kids are saying. No more blank stares as your teen says something like “she slays,” or “what a glow up!”
Understanding Gen Z terms: context, first and foremost
We’ve all done it: used terms that are specific to our own generation. But when our parents tried to do it, completely out of context? So embarrassing! Or, as the kids say these days . . . so cringe.
The main platforms and social media used by Gen Z are TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit, and BeReal. These platforms are always evolving, and so is their lingo. Ready to become a pro at decoding?
Social media language: Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and more
1. A snap
A video or picture sent on Snapchat.
2. IG
Rarely will you hear anyone refer to it as Instagram. IG is the much more popular choice these days.
3. FT
The abbreviated form of Facetime, an iPhone video app, is now used to refer to a video call . . . no matter if you’re on iOS or Android.
4. DM (Direct Message)
Direct messaging is used to have a private conversation with someone.
E.g.: “I’ll DM you.” or “I told him to DM me.”
5. Swiping/scrolling
The action of moving through content. For example, scrolling through videos, one after the other.
Content-related terms: POV, live, buzz
6. Live
This refers to streaming live content.
E.g.: “We made a live last night.”
7. Story
Short-lived content that usually disappears after 24 hours.
E.g.: “I posted it as a story, not on my feed.”
8. Trend
TikTok is the leader in exposing new trends that can quickly go viral and be recreated by other users.
E.g.: A challenge or a dance.
9. POV (point of view)
Often used in the legend of a video or meme, the POV is a set-up written in the first person, usually with a humorous tone.
E.g.: “POV: When you’re hungry but there’s nothing to eat.”
10. Buzz/Flop
These terms represent both sides of the coin in reference to the popularity of online content. Think likes, shares, and comments.
- Buzz: fast-growing popularity
- Flop: when a post goes unnoticed (or nearly unnoticed)
Reactions, moods, and emotions, the Gen Z way
Wish you could easily decrypt mood-related terms? Here are five of the most popular ones used by kids nowadays.
11. Cringe
Super embarrassing or awkward. It could be an action, situation, or even just a personal preference.
Context: “When you use Gen Z expressions wrong, that’s super cringe.”
12. Slay
A compliment meaning that someone is on the ball. This person is nailing whatever it is they’re doing.
E.g.: “You slayed that presentation!”
13. Ick
Is your child really turned off by something? Then that thing will no doubt give them the ick.
E.g.: “He lied to you again? Ick.”
14. Main character energy
Expression used to say that you feel like the protagonist, usually in a light or humorous context.
E.g.: “Today, I have main character energy.”
15. GOAT
Acronym for greatest of all time. This expression is used in reference to a person or goal to achieve.
Expressions pertaining to conversations, relationships, and style
16. Ghosting
Someone who ghosts you just stops responding, with no explanation.
17. Spamming
This is used when a person sends a bunch of posts, one after the other.
E.g.: “Quit spamming me.”
18. Glow up
This refers to a positive transformation (look, confidence, habits).
E.g.: “What an amazing glow up.”
19. Aesthetic
An amazing, sensible, perfect look.
E.g.: “That clean look is so aesthetic.”
20. Deepfake
This term refers to AI-generated audio or visual content that imitates someone.
E.g.: “That’s probably deepfake.”
How to discuss Gen Z slang with your kids
You can now smile when you understand the words and contexts of a few popular digital terms. The best way to broaden your knowledge is to ask your teens the right questions:
- What does that mean?
- How would you use it?
- Is it a good thing, or a bad thing? Or neutral?
This creates a bonding experience, a judgement-free, open discussion with your kids, teens, or young adults.
It’s specifically why Videotron and Centre pour l’intelligence émotionnelle en ligne (CIEL) are working to raise awareness on safe online practices. Communication is one of the best ways to ensure young people’s mental and social wellbeing.
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Mis à jour 03-02-2026
Version 6.0
