Slang is like a time capsule—one word can tell you exactly when (and sometimes where) someone grew up. Whether it’s “groovy,” “rad,” or “slaps,” the words we use can reveal our generational roots faster than you can say “cheugy.”
Here are 30 slang words that instantly reveal your generation—no cap. From Boomers to Gen Z, these phrases are time-stamped markers of when you came of age.
1. Groovy
Used by Boomers in the ’60s and ’70s to describe something cool or far out. If you say “groovy” unironically, you might be someone’s cool grandparent.
2. Gnarly
Popular in the ’80s surf and skate scene. It could mean “awesome” or “intense.” Still used by some Gen Xers—but rarely without irony.
3. Rad
Short for “radical,” this Gen X classic meant something was extremely cool. It had a brief revival in the 2000s, but mostly screams ’80s.
4. Tubular
Another surfer favorite from the ’80s that Gen Z probably only hears in old cartoons. Cowabunga, dude.
5. Phat
In the ’90s, “phat” meant excellent, especially regarding music or style. Don’t worry, it was a compliment.
6. Word
Used in the ’90s to show agreement, like saying “true” or “facts,” now. If you still say “word,” you’re likely Gen X or into retro hip-hop.
7. All That and a Bag of Chips
A ’90s way to say someone thought they were everything. Rarely used today unless you’re quoting Kenan & Kel.
8. Talk to the Hand
Ultimate ’90s sass. Translation: “I’m done with this conversation.” If you say this, you’re not Gen Z.
9. Bling
Early 2000s hip-hop slang for flashy, expensive accessories. Still understood, but not used by younger generations.
10. Fo’ shizzle
Popularized by Snoop Dogg in the 2000s. Translation: “for sure.” If you’re still saying this, your kids are probably embarrassed.
11. Yolo
“You only live once” became a 2010s motto for reckless decisions. Gen Z says “no cap” now, but they remember when this ruled Instagram captions.
12. On Fleek
In 2014, everything from brows to brunch could be “on fleek.” Now? Saying it out loud guarantees a Gen Z cringe.
13. Cray-Cray
A baby-talk version of “crazy” that peaked in the 2010s. It didn’t age well.
14. Cheugy
Coined by Gen Z to describe outdated millennial trends. If you know this word, you’re probably trying not to be cheugy.
15. Adulting
Millennials coined this to describe doing grown-up things, like laundry or budgeting. Gen Z rolls their eyes because they’re doing it too (without the hashtag).
16. Lit
This word has spanned generations—from ’90s hip-hop to 2010s frat parties. Still around, but it’s fading fast.
17. Dank
Started in weed culture, then moved to describe memes and jokes. It now mostly lives online.
18. Slaps
Gen Z uses this to describe a great song (or meal, or outfit). It’s still cool—for now.
19. No Cap
Translation: “I’m not lying.” Popular with Gen Z and TikTokers. You’re probably not Gen Z if you don’t know what it means.
20. Sus
Short for “suspicious,” this word exploded thanks to Among Us. Gen Z uses it constantly—boomers not so much.
21. Wassup?
This phrase took over the early 2000s thanks to Budweiser’s iconic ads. It’s now just a meme.
22. Burn
Used in the early 2000s to call out a sick insult. Popularized by That ’70s Show. Still funny, but mostly retired.
23. Hella
NorCal slang that made its way nationwide in the 2000s. It’s still around but signals serious Gen X or Millennial vibes.
24. Booyah
ESPN and Saturday Night Live helped push this into the mainstream. Now? It’s mostly gone—except in sports commentary.
25. Wig Snatched
A modern drag and Gen Z expression for being shocked or impressed. If you don’t get it, your wig’s probably still on.
26. Fire
Used to mean something was amazing or top-tier. Still used by all generations—but it’s slowly being replaced.
27. Bet
Gen Z’s version of “OK” or “say less.” It shows agreement, challenge, or hype. If you say “bet” naturally, you’re probably under 30.
28. It’s Giving
Used to describe a vibe, usually with flair: “It’s giving ’90s runway.” This is peak Gen Z internet slang.
Read More: 10 Reasons Gen Z is Clashing in the Workplace
29. Bussin’
Used for really good food (or anything that hits hard). Gen Z loves it, but older folks may still be confused.
Read More: This Is the Most Financially Stressed Generation in the US
30. As If!
Made iconic by Clueless in the ’90s. Still quoted—but no longer part of everyday slang.
Language constantly evolves, and every generation leaves behind a trail of trendy words. Whether you’re dropping “no cap” or reminiscing about things being “the bomb,” these phrases instantly show where (and when) you came from.
Read More: 15 Gen Z Slang Terms You Should Know
