Slang is informal language used in casual conversations, often reflecting cultural trends, group identities, and regional differences. It includes words, phrases, and expressions not commonly found in formal language, and can vary widely across age groups, regions, and cultures. Slang is influenced by factors like pop culture, media, and current events, and it evolves quickly over time—making it distinct from more stable expressions like idioms.

For SLPs, teachers, and language learners, understanding and using slang appropriately can enhance communication in casual settings. However, it’s important to be mindful of potential misunderstandings or offense, especially when engaging with individuals unfamiliar with certain slang terms.

This resource features a list of 101 American slang terms and their meanings, ideal for practicing language skills, social communication, and understanding cultural nuances.

SlangMeaning
1. LitExciting
2. GhostSuddenly stop responding to someone’s messages
3. FOMOFear of missing out
4. Lowkey Something that is done secretly or quietly
5. GucciEverything is going well
6. WokeAware of social and political issues
7. SquadGroup of friends
8. FinesseTo achieve something through charm or skill
9. On fleekPerfect or well-done
10. YOLOYou only live once
11. TeaGossip or news
12. SisA term of endearment for a close female friend
13. Bro A term of endearment for a close male friend
14. HypeExcited or energetic
15. SlayTo excel or do something very well
14. VibesThe energy of a place or situation
15. ShookSurprised or shocked
16. SaltyBeing upset or angry
17. SickCool or awesome
18. On pointDoing something well or perfectly
19. AightAll right
20. SusSuspicious
21. DynamiteAwesome or great
22. DoughMoney
23. GigJob or work
24. CushyComfortably easy
25. GrandA thousand dollars
26. A bearVery difficult
27. EyeballTo look something over
28. JamIn trouble
29. All-nighterTo study all night
30. FreebieSomething that is free
31. Shady Suspicious or questionable
32. RazzAnnoy
33. WhizVery talented or smart
34. BFFBest friends forever
35. ChickenCoward
36. BummedSad or disappointed
37. ThreadsClothes
38. IckyUnpleasant or annoying
39. What’s upAsking “how are you”
40. SameAgree
41. My badMy mistake
42. OMGOh my gosh
43. LOLLaugh out loud
44. No worriesNo big deal
45. NBDNo big deal
46. CheesySilly
47. Extra Attention-grabbing
48. CatfishAssuming a false identity
49. SavageNot caring about consequences
50. GOATGreatest of all times
51. RonaCOVID-19, Coronavirus
52. YaassEmphatic yes
53. PeriodtDone with conversation
54. ShookIn shock
55. SlivingSlaying living
56. GoalsSomething desirable
57. FactTruth
58. TotesTotally
59. GirlbossSuccessful woman
60. SlayExtremely impressive or successful
61. Thirsty Desperate for attention
62. Thanks, nextWas useful but is no longer
63. ICYMI In case you missed it
64. AMAAsk me anything
65. MacGyverAn improvised way of thinking
66. CringeEmbarrassing
67. AdorkableSocially awkward yet endearing
68. ROFLRolling on the floor laughing
69. LMKLet me know
70. IDKI don’t know
71. BTWBy the way
72. LOL Laugh out loud
73. FAQFrequently asked questions
74. NPNo problem
75. FYIFor your information
76. FlexShowing off own accomplishments
77. Clap backVerbal retaliation
78. BoomerBaby boomer generation
79. HighkeyOf super importance
80. Glow upBecoming more fabulous with age
81. SkrtStop
82. Bye, FeliciaDismissing a person or their request
83. No capSeriously
84. SwerveAvoid an unwanted situation
85. TBHTo be honest
86. SlapsStrikes you as good or impressive
87. ReadCalling out someone’s flaws
89. AggroAggressive
90. ClockAggressively insulting someone
91. RealnessAuthentically emulating someone or a character
92. Throw shadeIndirectly disrespect someone
93. BasicTo be mainstream
94. StanObsessive fan
95. TurntExcited or energized
96. KikiGroup of gossiping friends
97. CloutInfluencer
98. HypebeastA person who constantly seeks out new trends
99. CancelledNo longer supported or recognized
100. SketchySuspicious or questionable
101. Fam Family