Gen Z Slangs Made It To The Cambridge Dictionary

Oxford University Press named ‘Rizz’ word of the year 2023. Internet slangs and online language are becoming part of everyday speech. This is seen in the Cambridge Dictionary adding 3,200 new words this year, including terms like “the ick,” which means a sudden feeling of dislike towards someone, and “boop,” a playful touch, often on the nose. These additions show how online expressions are influencing the way we communicate.

“The ick” is a term made popular by the TV show Love Island and social media. It describes a sudden feeling of dislike or loss of attraction to someone because of something they do. “Boop” means a gentle touch or tap on a person’s or animal’s nose or head, usually done affectionately or as a joke.

Other Slangs Added

“Chef’s kiss” is an expression that comes from a traditional Italian gesture. It involves touching your fingers and thumb together, kissing them, and then moving your hand away from your lips. This gesture is used to show that something or someone is perfect or excellent.

“Face journey” refers to a series of facial expressions that show the different emotions someone is feeling in response to something.

IYKYK: A shortened form of the phrase “if you know, you know.”

“This baby“: A term used to refer to something like a device, vehicle, or product, especially if you think it’s impressive or you like it a lot.

Even words from gaming and science fiction are now in the dictionary. These include:

“Speedrun“: Completing a game or level as quickly as possible.

“Side quest“: An extra activity or mission in a game.

“Go over to the dark side“: To start behaving in an evil or harmful way, inspired by the villains in “Star Wars.”

Colin McIntosh from the Cambridge Dictionary notes that gaming terms have meanings that can apply to everyday life. For instance, “speedrun” might describe finishing a task quickly, and “side quest” could refer to minor tasks that distract from the main focus.