Top 34 Slang For Modern – Meaning & Usage

In a world where language is constantly evolving, it can be hard to keep up with the latest slang. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. Get ready to step up your cool factor as we take you on a journey through the top slang for the modern era. From lit to fleek, we’ll break down the meanings behind these trendy words and phrases so you can stay in the know and impress your friends. So sit back, relax, and get ready to upgrade your vocabulary with our ultimate list of modern slang.

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1. Lit

When something is “lit,” it means it’s exciting, amazing, or really cool. This term is often used to describe parties, events, or experiences that are fun and memorable.

For example, “That party last night was so lit!”
Someone might say, “The concert was lit, the energy was off the charts!”
A person might post a picture on social media with the caption, “Feeling lit in this new outfit!”

2. Fam

“Fam” is a slang term used to refer to close friends or family members. It’s a way of showing affection or camaraderie with the people you consider your inner circle.

For instance, “Heading out with the fam tonight!”
A person might say, “My fam always has my back, no matter what.”
Someone might post a group picture on social media with the caption, “My fam is the best!”

3. Bae

“Bae” is a term of endearment used to refer to a romantic partner or someone you care about deeply. It’s an abbreviation for “before anyone else” or “baby.”

For example, “Date night with bae!”
A person might say, “My bae surprised me with flowers today.”
Someone might post a picture with their significant other on social media with the caption, “Spending the day with my bae!”

4. Squad

A “squad” refers to a close group of friends who hang out together and support each other. It’s a way of emphasizing the bond and camaraderie within a group.

For instance, “Heading out with the squad tonight!”
A person might say, “My squad is always there for me, no matter what.”
Someone might post a group picture on social media with the caption, “My squad is the best!”

5. On fleek

When something is “on fleek,” it means it’s perfect, flawless, or at its best. This term is often used to describe someone’s appearance, makeup, or fashion choices.

For example, “Her eyebrows are on fleek!”
A person might say, “My outfit is on fleek today.”
Someone might post a selfie on social media with the caption, “Feeling on fleek with this new hairstyle!”

6. YOLO

This acronym is often used to justify impulsive or reckless behavior. It suggests that life is short, so one should take risks and enjoy the present moment.

For example, a person might say, “I’m going skydiving tomorrow because YOLO!”
A friend might encourage another to try a new activity by saying, “Come on, YOLO! What’s the worst that could happen?”
In a social media post, someone might caption a photo of a spontaneous adventure with, “Another YOLO moment!”

7. FOMO

This refers to the anxiety or unease that arises from the belief that others are having more fun, exciting, or fulfilling experiences. It often stems from seeing others’ social media posts or hearing about events or activities one was not invited to.

For instance, a person might say, “I didn’t go to the party last night and now I have major FOMO.”
A friend might express their FOMO by saying, “I can’t believe I missed out on that concert. It looked amazing!”
In a group chat, someone might jokingly say, “Don’t tell me about the awesome trip you’re planning. I can’t handle the FOMO!”

8. Swipe right

This phrase originated from the dating app Tinder, where users can swipe right on someone’s profile to indicate interest in them. It has since become a popular phrase to express interest or approval in various contexts.

For example, a person might say, “I swiped right on that new restaurant because the menu looks amazing.”
In a conversation about fashion, someone might comment, “I definitely swipe right on that outfit, it’s so stylish.”
A friend might say, “I swiped right on that job opportunity, it seems like a great fit for me.”

9. Facepalm

This term is used to convey a feeling of frustration or disbelief in response to something foolish or embarrassing. It is often accompanied by a physical gesture of placing one’s palm on their face.

For instance, if someone makes a silly mistake, you might facepalm and say, “I can’t believe you did that.”
In a discussion about a cringe-worthy moment, someone might comment, “I facepalmed so hard when I saw that.”
A person sharing a funny story might say, “I facepalmed when I realized I had been wearing my shirt inside out all day.”

10. Throw shade

This phrase refers to the act of making subtle, indirect insults or criticisms towards someone. It involves expressing disapproval or contempt in a clever or sarcastic manner.

For example, if someone makes a snarky comment about another person’s outfit, you might say, “Wow, she really knows how to throw shade.”
In a discussion about celebrity feuds, someone might comment, “They’ve been throwing shade at each other on social media.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe she threw shade at me during the meeting, it was so unprofessional.”

11. Hangry

Hangry is a combination of the words “hungry” and “angry,” and it describes the feeling of irritability or anger that arises when a person is hungry.

For instance, if someone is acting grumpy and impatient, you might say, “They’re just hangry, they need to eat.”
In a conversation about food cravings, someone might say, “I get hangry if I don’t have my morning coffee.”
A person might say, “I need to grab a snack, I’m starting to feel hangry.”

12. Adulting

This term is used to describe the act of behaving like a responsible adult and taking care of practical tasks and responsibilities associated with adulthood.

For example, if someone complains about having to do laundry and pay bills, you might say, “Welcome to adulting.”
In a discussion about adult responsibilities, someone might comment, “I’m still trying to figure out this whole adulting thing.”
A person might say, “I had to cancel my plans and stay home to adult, it’s not always fun but it’s necessary.”

13. TBT

This acronym is often used on social media to indicate a post or photo from the past. It is commonly used on Thursdays to share nostalgic content.

For example, “TBT to my high school prom!”
A user might post, “TBT to when I traveled to Europe last summer.”
Another might share, “TBT to my favorite childhood cartoon.”

14. GOAT

This term is used to describe someone or something that is considered the absolute best in a particular field or category.

For instance, “Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball.”
A fan might say, “Beyoncé is the GOAT when it comes to pop music.”
Another might argue, “The Beatles are the GOAT band in rock history.”

15. Lit AF

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely exciting, fun, or enjoyable. “AF” is an abbreviation for “as f***”, intensifying the meaning of “lit”.

For example, “That party last night was lit AF!”
A person might say, “This concert is going to be lit AF.”
Another might exclaim, “The new Avengers movie is going to be lit AF!”

16. Woke

This term refers to being socially and politically aware, often in the context of recognizing and addressing issues of social injustice or inequality.

For instance, “She’s so woke, always advocating for equality.”
A person might say, “Being woke means staying informed and taking action.”
Another might discuss, “The importance of staying woke in today’s society.”

17. Savage

This term is used to describe someone who is unapologetically bold, fearless, and brutally honest.

For example, “She’s a savage when it comes to standing up for herself.”
A person might say, “His savage comebacks always leave people speechless.”
Another might comment, “The way she handled that situation was absolutely savage.”

18. Salty

When someone is described as “salty,” it means they are feeling bitter or upset about something. This term is often used to describe someone who is being overly sensitive or easily offended.

For example, if someone gets angry and starts arguing over a small disagreement, you might say, “Wow, they’re really salty about this.”
If someone is constantly complaining and finding fault with everything, you could say, “They always seem to be in a salty mood.”
When someone takes a joke or teasing personally and reacts defensively, you might say, “Don’t be so salty, it was just a joke.”

19. Flex

To “flex” means to show off or boast about something, usually related to one’s achievements, possessions, or physical attributes.

For instance, if someone shows off their new car, you might say, “They’re really flexing with that ride.”
When someone talks about their high-paying job or expensive vacations to impress others, you could say, “They’re constantly flexing their wealth.”
If someone brags about their athletic abilities or physical fitness, you might say, “They’re always flexing about how strong they are.”

20. Clout

Clout refers to a person’s influence or popularity, especially in the context of social media. It can also refer to someone’s credibility or reputation.

For example, if someone has a large following on Instagram, you might say, “They have a lot of clout in the influencer community.”
When someone is able to get special treatment or access due to their connections or reputation, you could say, “They pulled some strings with their clout.”
If someone is trying to gain more followers or attention online, you might say, “They’re chasing clout by posting controversial content.”

21. Squad goals

Squad goals refers to the aspirations or objectives of a group of friends or colleagues. It represents the idealized version of a close-knit group and the activities or achievements they strive for together.

For instance, if a group of friends takes a vacation and posts pictures of their adventures, you might say, “They’re living the squad goals.”
When a group sets out to accomplish something together, like starting a business or organizing a charity event, you could say, “They have some serious squad goals.”
If someone sees a group of friends having a great time and wishes they had a similar group, you might say, “They’re experiencing major FOMO (fear of missing out) on those squad goals.”

22. Basic

Basic is a term used to describe someone or something that is unoriginal, mainstream, or lacking in unique qualities or originality.

For example, if someone only follows popular trends and doesn’t have their own sense of style, you might say, “They’re so basic.”
When someone orders a pumpkin spice latte and wears leggings as everyday attire, you could say, “They’re the epitome of basic.”
If someone has predictable and cliché interests, like loving brunch and taking selfies, you might say, “They’re just another basic person.”

23. Extra

This term is used to describe someone or something that is over-the-top, excessive, or dramatic. It can also refer to someone who is trying too hard or going beyond what is necessary.

For example, “She’s always so extra with her outfits, even for casual events.”
In a conversation about a party, someone might say, “The decorations were so extra, it felt like a wedding.”
Another person might comment, “He went extra on his apology, bringing flowers and a handwritten letter.”

24. Gucci

Derived from the luxury fashion brand Gucci, this term is used to describe something that is good, cool, or fashionable. It can also be used to express agreement or approval.

For instance, “That new song is Gucci, I can’t stop listening to it.”
In a conversation about plans, someone might say, “We’re going to the beach tomorrow, Gucci?”
Another person might comment, “Your outfit is so Gucci, where did you get it?”

25. Thirsty

This term is used to describe someone who is desperate or eager for attention, usually in a romantic or sexual context. It can also be used to describe someone who is overly eager or desperate for something in general.

For example, “He’s always commenting on her photos, he’s so thirsty.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might say, “I’m not interested in anyone who comes off as thirsty.”
Another person might comment, “She’s always posting thirst traps on social media, seeking validation.”

26. AF

An abbreviation for “as f***,” this term is used to emphasize the intensity or extremity of something. It can be used to describe a wide range of emotions or situations.

For instance, “I’m tired AF, I need a nap.”
In a conversation about food, someone might say, “This pizza is cheesy AF.”
Another person might comment, “That movie was scary AF, I couldn’t sleep afterwards.”

27. Hella

Originating from Northern California, this term is used to emphasize that something is very or extremely. It is often used as an adverb to describe a high degree or intensity.

For example, “The line for the concert was hella long.”
In a conversation about a party, someone might say, “The music was hella loud.”
Another person might comment, “I’m hella tired, let’s call it a night.”

28. Ship

This term is used to describe when someone supports or wants two people to be in a romantic relationship. It can also be used as a verb to express the act of supporting a particular couple.

For example, “I ship Harry and Hermione from Harry Potter.”
A fan might say, “I ship them so hard, they’re perfect for each other.”
In a TV show discussion, someone might comment, “I ship Ross and Rachel from Friends, they have so much chemistry.”

29. Tea

This term is used to refer to gossip or information about someone or something. It can also be used to describe something that is trendy or popular.

For instance, “Spill the tea, what happened at the party last night?”
A person might say, “I’ve got some juicy tea about that celebrity’s scandal.”
In a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “That outfit is so on-trend, it’s serving major tea.”

30. Thicc

This term is used to describe someone, usually a woman, who has a curvy or voluptuous body shape. It is often used as a compliment.

For example, “She’s got a thicc figure, she looks amazing.”
A person might say, “I love how confident she is in her thicc body.”
In a discussion about body positivity, someone might comment, “Thicc is the new skinny, embrace your curves.”

31. Mood

This term is used to express agreement or understanding with someone’s statement or situation. It is often used to convey a relatable feeling or emotion.

For instance, if someone says, “I just want to stay in bed all day,” another person might respond, “Mood.”
A person might comment, “Me trying to adult: mood.”
In a conversation about a frustrating experience, someone might say, “When you’re stuck in traffic and late for work, mood.”

32. Clap back

This term is used to describe a quick and clever comeback or response to criticism or insults. It is often used to assert oneself or defend against negative comments.

For example, if someone insults another person’s outfit, they might clap back with, “At least I have a sense of style.”
A person might say, “She’s known for her ability to clap back at haters.”
In a social media feud, someone might comment, “I can’t wait to see how she claps back at that rude comment.”

33. Ghosted

When someone suddenly stops all communication with another person without any explanation or warning. It can happen in friendships or romantic relationships.

For instance, “He ghosted me after our third date and I never heard from him again.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might say, “I hate it when people ghost instead of just being honest.”
A friend might share, “I got ghosted by my best friend and it really hurt.”

34. Vibes

Refers to the overall mood or energy of a person, place, or situation. It can be positive or negative and is often used to describe a particular ambiance or impression.

For example, “This party has good vibes, everyone is dancing and having fun.”
In a discussion about a concert, someone might say, “The band had amazing vibes on stage.”
A person might describe a relaxing vacation as “beach vibes” or a cozy coffee shop as “chill vibes.”