Slang terms of 2021 | Graphic by Grace Merkle | The Wright State Guardian
The rise in social media usage and popularity in 2021 also brought a rise in new slang words and phrases. Here are some popular slang terms used throughout the year.
Definition of slang
Slang terms have always been a staple in complex languages and dialects, with each culture and generation producing and using their own terms.
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, slang is an informal vocabulary with changed words and extravagant figures of speech. Slang is popularly used on social media platforms like TikTok.
‘Yeet’
Yeet is a slang term that can be used as a verb meaning to throw or push aside an object aggressively or quickly.
Used in a sentence: She yeeted her air-pods across the room.
This term can also be used to express joy and excitement; yeet, I completed my project!
‘Bet’
Bet is a slang term used as a verbal form of agreement, especially when the activity is unusual, or adventurous.
Used in a sentence: Let’s go ziplining in the mountains. Bet!
‘You’re done’
This slang phrase originated as a popular sound on the social media platform TikTok and has quickly spread to everyday vocabulary.
‘You’re done’ is used to either tell someone to stop doing an activity or to stop talking: You have been speaking for over an hour, you’re done!
It is also used to express disbelief or exasperation in a situation: I can’t believe my grades are so bad! You’re done!
‘Sketch/Sus’
Sketch and Sus are used as adjectives to describe someone or something that is suspicious.
Used in a sentence: y’all are acting sus!
Y’all is another slang term that combines the words you and all.
‘Gatekeep’
This term is used when a person or group of people hold back information or are being very selective of who is in a group.
Used in a sentence: Why are you gatekeeping?
This term also found its popularity on TikTok and is a part of the longer manta ‘girl boss, gaslight, gatekeep’. This term normally has a negative connotation.
