What Are the Most Confusing Gen Z Slang Words Right Now? — From “Gyat” to “Pookie”: Origins, Meanings & When to Use (Reddit Edition)
Slang has always been a cultural mirror—an ever-evolving language reflecting the thoughts, experiences, and digital lives of a generation. For Gen Z, whose vernacular is continuously shaped by TikTok trends, Reddit threads, and internet subcultures, this language can feel like encrypted code to outsiders. If you’ve ever heard someone say “gyat” or been referred to as “pookie” and wondered what dimension you’ve landed in, you’re not alone.
TL;DR
Gen Z slang is complex and constantly shifting, often blending irony, humor, and layered cultural references. Some of the most confusing terms like “gyat,” “rizz,” and “pookie” originate from TikTok, gaming culture, and inside Reddit jokes. Understanding their meanings requires context, including tone and platform. This guide breaks down these terms and how to use them without sounding painfully out of touch.
The Evolution of Gen Z Slang
Unlike the millennial era where slang often originated from music videos or mainstream television, Gen Z lives in an internet-native world. Their vocabulary is shaped by bite-sized video clips, viral Reddit memes, and hyper-niche online communities. The fluidity of these platforms means slang words can rise in popularity overnight and then fade just as quickly.
Instead of simply being expressive, Gen Z slang often feels cryptic or ironic. Reddit communities like r/OutOfTheLoop or r/GenZ are frequently filled with boomers and millennials asking things like, “What does ‘rizz’ mean?” or “Why does everyone call each other ‘pookie’ now?” If you’ve been scratching your head, you’re in the right place.
Top 10 Most Confusing Gen Z Slang Words (Reddit Edition)
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most commonly confused Gen Z slang terms currently circulating across Reddit and social media platforms.
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Gyat
Origin: This term likely stems from Twitch and TikTok, especially popular among male streamers reacting to content.
Meaning: A stylized pronunciation of “goddamn” used to express awe, usually in response to someone’s physical appearance.
How to use: “Gyat, sheesh—look at that walk.”
Reddit context: Often seen in reaction threads or stream memes. -
Rizz
Origin: Short for “charisma;” originally trending on TikTok and further dissected on Reddit.
Meaning: The ability to attract or charm someone romantically.
How to use: “He’s got mad rizz—watch him work that party.”
Variants: “Unspoken rizz” (effortless charm), “NPC rizz” (cringey or awkward behavior). -
Pookie
Origin: Ironically revived from older affectionate terms, then layered with Gen Z humor.
Meaning: A term of endearment, often used mockingly or humorously.
How to use: “It’s okay, pookie, we all make mistakes.”
Reddit observation: Frequently used sarcastically in meme replies or comment threads. -
Delulu
Origin: Shortened form of “delusional,” especially popularized by K-pop fan communities.
Meaning: Used to describe someone believing in unrealistic or overly optimistic outcomes.
How to use: “She thinks he’ll text her back? That’s so delulu.”
Reddit threads: Often seen in r/popculturechat or r/stan culture subs. -
NPC
Origin: Stands for “non-playable character,” pulled from gaming culture.
Meaning: Used to describe someone acting in an unoriginal, robotic, or cringey way.
How to use: “He just kept nodding. Total NPC energy.”
Context: Used especially when describing conformity or awkwardness. -
Skibidi
Origin: Based on a viral YouTube animation series called “Skibidi Toilet.”
Meaning: Mostly nonsensical; used to describe chaotic, absurdist internet humor.
How to use: “This whole thread is giving Skibidi vibes.”
Reddit impact: Frequently used as a joke in absurd meme formats. -
Moots
Origin: Twitter (now X), short for “mutuals”—users who follow each other.
Meaning: Friends or acquaintances on social media.
How to use: “My moots always back me up.”
Appears in: Reddit discussions about fan accounts and Twitter culture. -
Goated
Origin: Evolved from “G.O.A.T.” (Greatest of All Time).
Meaning: Something or someone that’s exceptionally good.
How to use: “That movie was goated fr.”
Subreddit sighting: Common in gaming or sports threads. -
Ratio
Origin: Twitter response trend.
Meaning: When a reply receives more likes (or upvotes) than the original post, indicating public disagreement.
How to use: “He got absolutely ratioed in the comments.”
Reddit adaptation: Users nod to this when a post gets downvoted to oblivion. -
Mid
Origin: Short for “mediocre.” Became viral through memes and TikTok battles.
Meaning: Something unimpressive or average—typically said as a diss.
How to use: “That new album? Kinda mid, not gonna lie.”
Reddit relevance: Heavy usage in r/Music or r/movies reviews.
Why Is It So Confusing?
What makes Gen Z slang especially bewildering isn’t just the vocabulary but the tone and timing behind it. Reddit users frequently express frustration about how quickly meanings can shift, or how sarcasm makes words like “pookie” means both a joke and a sincere term of affection—depending on the context.
Adding to the confusion is the heavy use of irony. Sarcasm is a key part of Gen Z’s communication style online. As a result, literal translations often don’t apply. What looks like a positive phrase might actually be shade, and vice versa.
The Role of Reddit in Shaping and Decoding Slang
Reddit plays a dual role in the evolution of Gen Z slang. On one end, subreddits like r/Teenagers and r/GenZ are the breeding grounds where terms gain traction. On the other, forums like r/OutOfTheLoop or r/AskAnOld become the detective stations for decoding what any of it actually means.
Interestingly, Reddit’s upvote and comment system also allows for community policing. If someone misuses a term, they’re often corrected (sometimes ruthlessly), which collectively educates users while perpetuating the slang’s cultural context.
Tips to Use Gen Z Slang Confidently (and Correctly)
- Lurk Before You Speak: Read through comment threads and Reddit discussions to get contextual usage.
- Use It Sparingly: Avoid overdoing it; one or two terms per post or comment can come off as playful but authentic.
- Don’t Force It:</