Slang Time: Learn What “Chad” & More Gen Z Slang Terms Mean

Language is a very colorful thing. It is more colorful than five 120 Crayola crayon box sets combined, especially when you take into account the catalog of catchy slang words out there.

Like in any other language, English itself has a lot of slang words—funny, unexpected, ironic, and clever slang words. You hear these terms circulating on the interwebs, in conversations, and in movies and television shows. There’s just no way of escaping them! But do you know what these slang terms really mean?

• Based: To agree with something or be yourself without caring what others think.
• Chad: A stereotypical “alpha male” (usually not a compliment).
• Mid: Something that is average or mediocre.
• Fr: For real.
• Pick me girl: Someone who claims to be "not like other girls" to get attention.
• Ion: I don’t.
• NPC: Non-player character; describes someone who lacks individual thought.
• Soft-launch: A teaser of a new relationship on social media without showing the partner's face.
• Touch grass: A way to tell someone to go outside and get a reality check.
• Simp: Someone who does way too much for a person they like.
• Hits different: When something is significantly better or more unique than usual.
• It’s giving: Used to describe the vibe or mood of something.
• Era: A specific phase or "vibe" someone is currently in.
• Gatekeeper: Someone who tries to keep a specific interest or brand private.
• Situationship: A romantic relationship that is not yet defined.
• Rizz: Short for "charisma"; your ability to attract a partner.
• Main character: Someone who acts like the protagonist of their own life.
• Sleeping on: Underestimating or ignoring something great.
• I’m weak: Used when something is extremely funny.
• Sending me: Also used when something is incredibly funny.
• Bussin: Food that tastes amazing.
• Guap: A large amount of money.
• Gagged: To be completely shocked or speechless.
• Mother: A term for an iconic, legendary woman.
• Only in Ohio: Used to describe something weird or bizarre.