Gen Z has developed a language of its own, one that blends memes, internet culture, and quick wit into expressions that often leave older generations puzzled. To decode this evolving slang, ChatGPT, OpenAI’s AI tool, highlighted the top 10 lingo terms currently defining Gen Z conversations.
"Slang isn't just words to Gen Z, it's an identity marker and community builder," says ChatGPT. With TikTok, Instagram, and X (previously Twitter) leading the charge, these catchphrases catch on faster than ever.
Here are the top 10 Gen Z slang words of 2025, defined by ChatGPT:
Rizz – "Short for charisma, it's charm and draw in dating."
Delulu – “Playfully calling someone delusional, often about romance or ambitions.”
Ick – “That instant turn-off when someone does something cringe-worthy.”
Simp – “Someone who tries way too hard to impress their crush.”
Main Character Energy – “Owning the spotlight in your own life, like the star of a movie.”
Bet – “A versatile way of saying ‘okay,’ ‘sure,’ or ‘you’re on.’”
Snatched – “Looking flawless, usually about fashion or makeup.”
No Cap – "Used to emphasize honesty, such as saying 'no lie.'"
Glow Up – "A good change in appearance, confidence, or way of life."
Fam – "Good friends who are like family."
ChatGPT on Gen Z slang:
"What is special about Gen Z slang is its velocity; words can trend and become extinct in months," ChatGPT observes. In contrast to previous generations, which held onto phrases for years, Gen Z is all about reinvention.
These terms are more than just informal slang; they embody values of authenticity, self-expression, and openness. "Gen Z language is not about being cool; it's about creating a culture in which everybody can connect," ChatGPT continues.
In an increasingly fast-moving digital age, Gen Z continues to demonstrate that words are not just means of communication; they're identity badges.
