TikTok Slang Guide: 100 Essential Terms to Keep Up with Viral Trends

TikTok has taken the world by storm, evolving from a short-video platform to a global cultural phenomenon. One of the defining aspects of TikTok’s success is its unique and constantly evolving slang. This vocabulary has become a central part of how users engage with content, trends, and each other. If you want to understand what’s trending on TikTok, mastering its slang is essential. From the latest viral challenges to memes and trends, TikTok slang has its own rhythm, language, and context.

In this article, we’ll cover 100 essential TikTok slang terms you need to know. Whether you’re a newcomer to the platform or an experienced user, understanding these terms will not only help you engage with viral trends but also make your content more relatable and shareable. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to decode TikTok lingo and even incorporate it into your own posts.

Why TikTok Slang Matters

TikTok slang has evolved quickly, much like the platform itself. A unique blend of creativity, humor, and pop culture references has shaped the language used on TikTok. The platform’s younger demographic, which includes teens and young adults, has created and popularized a distinct set of terms. These terms often originate from viral challenges, memes, and internet subcultures, making TikTok an incubator for new phrases that spread across social media platforms.

Understanding TikTok slang also enhances the overall TikTok experience. It allows users to connect with others, participate in viral trends, and understand the humor and social cues that drive TikTok content. Whether you’re interacting with comments, creating videos, or simply scrolling through your For You Page (FYP), knowing the right slang can make your experience much more enjoyable and engaging.

The Evolution of TikTok Slang

TikTok’s slang evolves at a rapid pace. New terms are created and popularized within weeks or even days. Some terms last only for a brief moment, while others become evergreen parts of the TikTok language. The constant stream of trends and viral videos ensures that TikTok’s vocabulary remains fresh, reflecting the platform’s dynamic and ever-changing culture. The language used on TikTok is also influenced by music, internet memes, viral challenges, and popular personalities, creating a hybrid vocabulary that blends pop culture references with creative expressions.

In addition, TikTok’s algorithm and video-sharing features have helped accelerate the spread of new slang terms. When a new trend goes viral, it’s often accompanied by a catchphrase or a new term, which quickly gains traction among users. As these terms spread across TikTok, they become embedded in the daily conversations of millions of users, making it essential to stay updated on the latest slang to remain relevant on the platform.

100 Essential TikTok Slang Terms

Here is a comprehensive list of 100 TikTok slang terms you need to know to stay current with viral trends:

1. FYP – For You Page, the main feed where videos are recommended based on your interests.
2. Vibe check – A way of evaluating someone’s mood or personality.
3. POV – Point of View, often used in videos to show the perspective of the creator.
4. Bet – A term used to agree with something or show confirmation.
5. No cap – Used to emphasize honesty, meaning “no lie” or “for real.”
6. Cap – A lie or exaggeration.
7. Slaps – Describes something that is really good, usually used for music or videos.
8. Flex – To show off or boast, often in a flashy or exaggerated way.
9. Drip – Refers to someone’s style or fashion, particularly when it’s on point.
10. Lit – Used to describe something exciting or fun.
11. Ghosting – When someone suddenly stops communicating without explanation.
12. Sus – Short for “suspicious,” used to describe someone who seems shady or untrustworthy.
13. Ship – To support or want two people to be in a relationship, often seen in fan communities.
14. Tea – Gossip or juicy information.
15. Thirsty – Desperate for attention or validation.
16. Snack – A term used to describe someone who looks good, often used for a crush.
17. Savage – Describes someone who is tough or does something bold and fearless.
18. Woke – Being socially aware, especially about issues like race, gender, and equality.
19. Viral – Used when a video or post becomes widely popular and spreads quickly.
20. Clout – Influence or power, especially on social media.
21. Hypebeast – Someone who is obsessed with the latest trends, particularly fashion.
22. Glow up – A dramatic transformation, usually referring to someone improving their appearance.
23. W – Short for “win,” used to celebrate success.
24. L – Short for “loss,” used to indicate failure or something disappointing.
25. Bussin’ – Something that is really good, usually referring to food.
26. Tea spill – To reveal or gossip about someone’s secrets.
27. Simp – Someone who does too much for someone they like, often used humorously.
28. I’m dead – Used to express how funny or shocking something is.
29. Periodt – A way to emphasize a point, often used at the end of a statement.
30. Stanning – Being a huge fan or supporter of someone or something.
31. Finsta – A secondary Instagram account used for more personal or private posts.
32. Yasss – An enthusiastic way to say yes, often used for approval or excitement.
33. Mood – Used to express that you relate to something.
34. Fr – Short for “for real,” used to emphasize sincerity.
35. Litty – Another way of saying something is lit or exciting.
36. Drained – Feeling exhausted or mentally tired.
37. Rizz – Short for charisma, referring to someone’s charm or flirting ability.
38. Moodboard – A collection of images or ideas representing a concept or aesthetic.
39. Viral challenge – A trend where users replicate a certain action or theme.
40. Baddie – A term used to describe someone who is attractive, confident, and fashionable.
41. Viral – Something that spreads widely across the internet, usually quickly.
42. Flexing – Showing off wealth, status, or something you’re proud of.
43. Stan Twitter – A Twitter community of passionate fans of celebrities, shows, or topics.
44. Shade – Subtle insults or passive-aggressive remarks.
45. Deadass – Used to indicate seriousness, meaning “I’m serious” or “I’m not joking.”
46. Swerve – To avoid or reject someone, often in a playful or humorous way.
47. Main Character Energy – Acting like the main character in a story, often confidently or with a sense of purpose.
48. Litty – Used to describe an exciting or lively situation.
49. Cancelled – A term used to express that someone or something is no longer respected or supported.
50. TikTok famous – Becoming well-known on TikTok due to viral content.
51. Catch feelings – Developing romantic or emotional feelings for someone.
52. FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out, used to describe the anxiety of not being included.
53. Ghosting – Suddenly cutting off communication with someone without explanation.
54. Hundo P – Short for 100%, used to show full agreement or certainty.
55. Troll – Someone who intentionally provokes others online for amusement.
56. Rage quit – To abruptly leave a situation in frustration, often used in gaming.
57. Vibe check – An assessment of someone’s mood or energy.
58. AF – Short for “as f***,” used to emphasize something.
59. Thicc – Describes someone with a curvy or fuller body, often used positively.
60. Squad – A group of close friends or associates.
61. Bop – A catchy song, usually referring to music.
62. Yeet – An exclamation used when throwing something or expressing excitement.
63. Bae – A term of endearment, short for “before anyone else.”
64. Extra – Used to describe someone who is over the top or dramatic.
65. Cap – To lie or fake something.
66. Fit check – A review or showcase of someone’s outfit.
67. Tbh – To be honest, used when giving a straightforward opinion.
68. Lurking – Watching content online without interacting or commenting.
69. Flex – To show off, especially wealth or accomplishments.
70. Lowkey – Something done subtly or secretly, not meant to be obvious.
71. Highkey – The opposite of lowkey, meaning something done openly or obviously.
72. Viral sound – A piece of audio that goes viral, often used in TikTok challenges.
73. Aesthetic – A visually pleasing or harmonious style or theme.
74. Big mood – A relatable feeling or vibe.
75. Bussin’ – A term used to describe food or something that is extremely good.
76. Basic – Someone or something that is ordinary or unoriginal.
77. Fit check – A term used to showcase or rate one’s outfit.
78. Stan – To be a devoted fan of something or someone.
79. Salty – Being upset or bitter about something.
80. Glow up – A transformation, typically physical, from awkward to attractive.
81. Clout – Influence, especially in social media contexts.
82. Go off – To express yourself passionately or to take action confidently.
83. Slangin’ – Selling or promoting something, often used in a playful context.
84. Bling – Expensive jewelry or accessories.
85. Living rent-free – When someone or something is occupying your thoughts constantly.
86. RIP – Rest in peace, used jokingly when something goes wrong.
87. AFK – Away From Keyboard, used in gaming or chats.
88. Woke – Awareness of social justice issues, or a trendy term for being enlightened.
89. Chill – To relax or hang out casually.
90. Thot – An acronym for “that ho over there,” used as a derogatory term.
91. Viral sensation – A person or video that becomes very popular online.
92. Bet – Used to express agreement, like saying “okay.”
93. IYKYK – If You Know, You Know, used to reference inside jokes or exclusive knowledge.
94. Not my vibe – Something you don’t like or connect with.
95. Sis – A term of endearment for a friend or sister.
96. Yolo – You Only Live Once, used to encourage taking risks.
97. Wig – A term used to express surprise or excitement.
98. FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out, the anxiety over not being part of an event or trend.
99. On fleek – Perfectly done, usually used for appearance or style.
100. Sick – Used to describe something that’s impressive or cool.

Conclusion

Mastering TikTok slang is essential for staying relevant and engaging with the TikTok community. The platform’s constantly evolving language can be overwhelming, but understanding the slang terms will enhance your experience, whether you’re creating content, commenting on videos, or simply watching trends unfold. As new slang terms emerge, keeping up with the latest trends will help you participate in viral moments and connect with others.

By familiarizing yourself with the 100 essential TikTok slang terms listed above, you can confidently navigate TikTok’s dynamic culture. Remember, TikTok is all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the language and make it your own. Stay updated on the latest trends and slang, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a TikTok pro.

See Also: Global Internet Slang Guide: 100 Essential Terms to Stay Meme-Savvy