Cart
0
Ah, teenage slang. It’s like a secret language designed to make dads feel old and out of touch. But fear not, fellow dads—we’ve got your back. Whether you want to connect with your kids (or mildly embarrass them for fun), knowing the latest lingo is your ticket to staying in the loop.
Here’s the ultimate Dad Day guide to teen slang in 2025, breaking down the phrases, acronyms, and emojis your kids are probably using when they’re not rolling their eyes at you.
Why Learn Teen Slang?
- Connection: Speak their language, and suddenly, you’re not just Dad—you’re a Dad who gets it.
- Translation: Understand what they’re actually saying in group chats or TikToks.
- Embarrassment Factor: Let’s be real—using slang around their friends is the ultimate dad flex.
The 2025 Teen Slang Dictionary
1. “Bet”
What it Means: “Okay” or “I agree.”
Example:
Kid: “I’m heading to the mall.”
Dad: “Bet. Grab me a pretzel while you’re there.”
Bonus: They might think you’re cooler… for a second.
2. “Slaps”
What it Means: Something really good or impressive (usually music, food, or memes).
Example:
Kid: “This new album slaps!”
Dad: “Oh yeah? Does my barbecue playlist slap?”
Result: Eye roll, but you’ve made your point.
3. “Drip”
What it Means: Stylish or cool outfit.
Example:
Kid: “Look at my new kicks—drip.”
Dad: “Your mom says I’ve got dad drip. Thoughts?”
Pro Tip: Wear sneakers when you say this.
4. “Cap” / “No Cap”
What it Means: “Cap” = a lie, “No Cap” = truth.
Example:
Kid: “I aced that math test, no cap.”
Dad: “That’s awesome! I had a mullet in high school, no cap.”
Reaction: This one might spark a conversation—or laughter.
5. “Rizz”
What it Means: Charisma or charm (often related to flirting).
Example:
Kid: “He’s got crazy rizz with the girls.”
Dad: “You’re saying your old man’s got no rizz?”
Outcome: Silence or a quick change of subject.
6. “Touch Grass”
What it Means: Stop being online and get outside.
Example:
Kid: “You’ve been on Facebook all day, Dad. Touch grass.”
Dad: “I was gardening this morning. I’m way ahead of you.”
Tip: Use this on them after a long gaming session.
7. “I’m Him/Her”
What it Means: Being the best or having confidence.
Example:
Kid: “I scored the winning goal—I'm him.”
Dad: “I built that IKEA table without instructions. I’m him, too.”
Dad Win: Use it sparingly, or it loses its edge.
8. “Mid”
What it Means: Mediocre, average, not great.
Example:
Kid: “That movie was mid.”
Dad: “Mid? More like a cinematic masterpiece. You’re grounded.”
Note: Expect pushback if you critique their slang usage.
9. “Sus”
What it Means: Suspicious or shady.
Example:
Kid: “Dad, why is there a random Amazon box in the garage?”
Dad: “Stop being sus. It’s for your birthday.”
Strategy: Perfect for deflecting kid-level interrogation.
10. “Fire”
What it Means: Something awesome or impressive.
Example:
Kid: “This dinner is fire!”
Dad: “Thanks. This grill game doesn’t just happen overnight.”
Bonus Points: Reinforce your grill master status.
Acronyms You Need to Know
-
IYKYK: “If you know, you know.”
Translation: An inside joke or reference.
Example: Kid: “That new sushi spot is elite. IYKYK.” -
OOMF: “One of my followers.”
Translation: A subtle way of talking about someone online.
Example: Kid: “OOMF is always posting cringe.” -
TBH: “To be honest.”
Translation: A soft intro to expressing an opinion.
Example: Kid: “TBH, your dad jokes are getting old.” -
GOAT: “Greatest of All Time.”
Translation: A title reserved for legends.
Example: Kid: “Messi is the GOAT.” Dad: “Jordan, no question.”
How to Use Teen Slang Without Being Cringe
- Don’t Overdo It: Sprinkle slang into conversations naturally—don’t force it, or you’ll get called out.
- Context is Key: Make sure you’re using the terms correctly (or prepare to be roasted).
- Lean Into the Embarrassment: If they groan or roll their eyes, mission accomplished.
Why It Matters
Teen slang is more than just words—it’s a window into how your kids think, connect, and express themselves. Learning their lingo shows you’re paying attention and makes it easier to have real conversations.
Sure, you might embarrass them a little, but that’s your job, right?
So, dads—study up, flex your “drip,” and remember: when you drop these words at the dinner table, you’re not just talking. You’re making memories (even if they’re laughing at you instead of with you).
Now, go touch grass.
