Essay
The Filipino Gen Z Dictionary: A Playful Look at Language Evolution
By Janna Dela Cruz
(Contributor: Brian Sereneo)
Back in the 90s, Filipino millennials bought their favorite food whenever they felt tomguts. They may occasionally ask their erpat or ermat for additional money to buy betamax from manong down the street. Now, Filipino Gen Zs can also be heard saying dasurv whenever they spoil themselves with their favorite snack brands. They may opt to go to TikTok, Shopee, Lazada, for additional budols.
Understanding generational differences can provide crucial insights into the sociocultural and historical blueprint that led to Filipino consumers' current values, behavior, and mindset. While labeling and viewing generations in isolation may oversimplify complex social phenomena, there is still value in deep-diving aspects of their identity. One of the ways this can be done is through the analysis of their language and linguistic trends.
Renowned Filipino linguist Maria Loudes S. Bautista mentioned how the Filipino language is like a river—constantly flowing, shifting, and evolving. The linguistic choices spoken by different Filipino generations are heavily influenced by several factors, such as the recalled terms and expressions from their older cohorts, and trends, especially from mass media. More specifically, borrowing terms and expressions from older cohorts cuts across generations.
Astig for example is a common bridge among Millennials and Gen Zs. Reversing syllables is also a commonality. Millennials made yorme well-known again, and Gen Zs paralleled this with eabab. These highlight the cyclical nature of trends, with one generation borrowing and “reinventing” the expressions of another. Using famous lines from mass media (especially movies) in day-to-day conversations is also very apparent.
Around 2005, millennials and young Gen Zs flooded Facebook, Reddit, 9GAG with “One does not simply…” memes inspired by the Lord of the Rings. This practice is present until today, as Filipino millennials and Gen Zs share laugh at meme-worthy quotes from movies, vloggers, and the like – indeed, language exists in a continuum.
Filipino Gen Zs arguably have the strongest influence on language. Known for their creativity, humor, and adaptability, this generation has transformed how they communicate, creating a "dictionary" that not only reflects their experiences but shapes their identity. What sets this generation and its linguistic dynamics apart is how 1) new, limitless, online platforms facilitate rapid dissemination and evolution of slang and expressions like never before 2), regional dialects and local vernaculars shape the Gen Z language uniquely in the Philippines, 3) language is used as a cultural artifact that strengthens sense of collectiveness, and 4) language is used as a tool to be more active participants in politics.
Understanding generational differences can provide crucial insights into the sociocultural and historical blueprint that led to Filipino consumers' current values, behavior, and mindset. While labeling and viewing generations in isolation may oversimplify complex social phenomena, there is still value in deep-diving aspects of their identity. One of the ways this can be done is through the analysis of their language and linguistic trends.
Renowned Filipino linguist Maria Loudes S. Bautista mentioned how the Filipino language is like a river—constantly flowing, shifting, and evolving. The linguistic choices spoken by different Filipino generations are heavily influenced by several factors, such as the recalled terms and expressions from their older cohorts, and trends, especially from mass media. More specifically, borrowing terms and expressions from older cohorts cuts across generations.
Astig for example is a common bridge among Millennials and Gen Zs. Reversing syllables is also a commonality. Millennials made yorme well-known again, and Gen Zs paralleled this with eabab. These highlight the cyclical nature of trends, with one generation borrowing and “reinventing” the expressions of another. Using famous lines from mass media (especially movies) in day-to-day conversations is also very apparent.
Around 2005, millennials and young Gen Zs flooded Facebook, Reddit, 9GAG with “One does not simply…” memes inspired by the Lord of the Rings. This practice is present until today, as Filipino millennials and Gen Zs share laugh at meme-worthy quotes from movies, vloggers, and the like – indeed, language exists in a continuum.
Filipino Gen Zs arguably have the strongest influence on language. Known for their creativity, humor, and adaptability, this generation has transformed how they communicate, creating a "dictionary" that not only reflects their experiences but shapes their identity. What sets this generation and its linguistic dynamics apart is how 1) new, limitless, online platforms facilitate rapid dissemination and evolution of slang and expressions like never before 2), regional dialects and local vernaculars shape the Gen Z language uniquely in the Philippines, 3) language is used as a cultural artifact that strengthens sense of collectiveness, and 4) language is used as a tool to be more active participants in politics.
LIMITLESS SOURCES, LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES: HOW ONLINE PLATFORMS SHAPE FILIPINO GEN Z SLANG
Online platforms like Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are catalysts for the rapid spread and evolution of slang among Filipino Gen Z. These platforms facilitate instant communication, allowing phrases and expressions to go viral quickly through memes, hashtags, and shared content. Developments in these channels have been drastic compared to what was initially experienced by older generations. With Gen Zs being the generation that is most exposed online in terms of duration and frequency, they get a constant flux of linguistic expressions from limitless sources, both locally and internationally.
For instance, the term "sana all" (meaning "I wish everyone could experience that") gained popularity through viral memes and posts, making their way into everyday conversations. Recently, “-gar” (a shortened version of “ka-lugar”) also gained traction and can be heard in informal Gen Z conversations whether verbal in hangouts like cafes, or digital as in Facebook comments and chats.
Additionally, global online communities expose Filipino Gen Z to international slang like "FOMO" (Fear of Missing Out) – or the newer trend “JOMO” (Joy of Missing Out) - which they localize and hybridize, creating a dynamic and constantly evolving linguistic landscape. Western influencers and content creators amplify these trends, introducing new slang like "OOMF" (One of My Followers) or "simp" (someone who shows excessive attention or affection) to their vast audiences. Until today, Kai Cenat (the 2024 number 1 US Twitch streamer) is reflected by Filipino Gen Zs whenever they drop “rizz”. User-generated content also plays a role, as young people remix and adapt expressions in real time. It is therefore unsurprising to see Filipino Gen Zs add their personalized touches, sometimes combining elements from different words.
Another element unique to this generation is how they can utilize visual communication through newer UI/UXs. For example, Gen Zs now have a plethora of “reactions” on Facebook they can choose to further communicate their sentiments. Likewise, they may pop “notes” on Instagram to communicate to their countless audiences what they’re currently feeling or listening to. Indeed, their limitless sources pave the way for limitless means of shaping language.
For instance, the term "sana all" (meaning "I wish everyone could experience that") gained popularity through viral memes and posts, making their way into everyday conversations. Recently, “-gar” (a shortened version of “ka-lugar”) also gained traction and can be heard in informal Gen Z conversations whether verbal in hangouts like cafes, or digital as in Facebook comments and chats.
Additionally, global online communities expose Filipino Gen Z to international slang like "FOMO" (Fear of Missing Out) – or the newer trend “JOMO” (Joy of Missing Out) - which they localize and hybridize, creating a dynamic and constantly evolving linguistic landscape. Western influencers and content creators amplify these trends, introducing new slang like "OOMF" (One of My Followers) or "simp" (someone who shows excessive attention or affection) to their vast audiences. Until today, Kai Cenat (the 2024 number 1 US Twitch streamer) is reflected by Filipino Gen Zs whenever they drop “rizz”. User-generated content also plays a role, as young people remix and adapt expressions in real time. It is therefore unsurprising to see Filipino Gen Zs add their personalized touches, sometimes combining elements from different words.
Another element unique to this generation is how they can utilize visual communication through newer UI/UXs. For example, Gen Zs now have a plethora of “reactions” on Facebook they can choose to further communicate their sentiments. Likewise, they may pop “notes” on Instagram to communicate to their countless audiences what they’re currently feeling or listening to. Indeed, their limitless sources pave the way for limitless means of shaping language.
HOW REGIONAL VERNACULARS ENRICH FILIPINO GEN Z LANGUAGE
In the Philippines, regional dialects and local vernaculars play a significant role in shaping Gen Z language, adding layers of cultural richness and identity. With over 180 languages spoken across the country, Filipino Gen Z seamlessly blends Tagalog, English, and regional dialects like Cebuano, Ilocano, or Hiligaynon into their daily conversations.
For example, a Cebuano Gen Z might say "gwapa kaayo siya" (she's very beautiful), blending Cebuano with popular Gen Z slang like "lodi" (idol). On social media, phrases like "alay" (sacrifice in Ilocano) have become part of national conversations, such as during events commemorating the sacrifices of frontliners during the pandemic. This unique mix allows them to express their regional pride while contributing to the broader, evolving national slang. National trends are also sometimes adapted or tweaked per region, as “ka-lugar” in Metro Manila becomes “ka-kosa” in Davao.
For example, a Cebuano Gen Z might say "gwapa kaayo siya" (she's very beautiful), blending Cebuano with popular Gen Z slang like "lodi" (idol). On social media, phrases like "alay" (sacrifice in Ilocano) have become part of national conversations, such as during events commemorating the sacrifices of frontliners during the pandemic. This unique mix allows them to express their regional pride while contributing to the broader, evolving national slang. National trends are also sometimes adapted or tweaked per region, as “ka-lugar” in Metro Manila becomes “ka-kosa” in Davao.
FILIPINO GEN Z TURNS WORDS INTO EMPOWERMENT
This generation has a strong sense of responsibility due to how they can remain informed on various topics (see: FastForwardMR’s essay “Vibe Check: A Gen Z Guide to Navigating the Filipino Workplace). For Filipino Gen Z, slang is more than playful language; it's a tool for empowerment in the face of challenges and responsibilities. By creating and using creative, often humorous expressions like "laban lang" (just keep fighting) or "petmalu" (awesome), they inject positivity and resilience into everyday conversations.
For instance, during the challenges of online learning, many students use "laban lang" to motivate themselves and their peers. Similarly, "petmalu" is used to praise someone who overcame a difficult situation, such as saying, "Petmalu ka, friend!" (You’re awesome, friend!) when congratulating someone for passing a tough exam. These terms help express defiance against hardships—whether personal struggles, societal pressures, or economic difficulties—while maintaining a sense of community and shared experience. Being able to relate to the trends and echoing what peers are saying arguably strengthens their sense of unity by allowing them to see that the struggle to make a difference is a shared struggle. Hence, it is common to hear collective expressions that connote shared similarities (as in “gar”, “kosa”, etc.).
For instance, during the challenges of online learning, many students use "laban lang" to motivate themselves and their peers. Similarly, "petmalu" is used to praise someone who overcame a difficult situation, such as saying, "Petmalu ka, friend!" (You’re awesome, friend!) when congratulating someone for passing a tough exam. These terms help express defiance against hardships—whether personal struggles, societal pressures, or economic difficulties—while maintaining a sense of community and shared experience. Being able to relate to the trends and echoing what peers are saying arguably strengthens their sense of unity by allowing them to see that the struggle to make a difference is a shared struggle. Hence, it is common to hear collective expressions that connote shared similarities (as in “gar”, “kosa”, etc.).
FILIPINO GEN Z'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION
Filipino Gen Z wields slang as a powerful tool for political expression, using humor and irony to challenge authority and critique social issues. Language has always been used indirectly to challenge questionable authority.
Back in the Marcos era, the mosquito press leveraged language and the masses to challenge the status quo. Now, Gen Zs would use sound-alike “nicknames” for politicians or political groups they are vocal about. Gen Zs also leverage humorous formats like memes to forward their political perspectives. Moreover, during political protests, activists often use the hashtag #DDS on Twitter to criticize government policies. The term "presstitute" has also been used widely online to criticize biased news coverage. Online platforms amplify these terms, enabling them to spread rapidly and fuel political discourse. Through slang, Gen Z makes complex political ideas more accessible, while building solidarity in the fight for change.
Similarly, Gen Zs are also seen to fight other systems beyond politics. For example, TikTok has banned/regulated the use of “Shopee”. To bypass the system, Gen Zs birthed the term “Orange app”. Indeed, the technological advancements that embrace them as a generation create new opportunities for Gen Zs to mold language as a weapon in ways that have never been done before.
Back in the Marcos era, the mosquito press leveraged language and the masses to challenge the status quo. Now, Gen Zs would use sound-alike “nicknames” for politicians or political groups they are vocal about. Gen Zs also leverage humorous formats like memes to forward their political perspectives. Moreover, during political protests, activists often use the hashtag #DDS on Twitter to criticize government policies. The term "presstitute" has also been used widely online to criticize biased news coverage. Online platforms amplify these terms, enabling them to spread rapidly and fuel political discourse. Through slang, Gen Z makes complex political ideas more accessible, while building solidarity in the fight for change.
Similarly, Gen Zs are also seen to fight other systems beyond politics. For example, TikTok has banned/regulated the use of “Shopee”. To bypass the system, Gen Zs birthed the term “Orange app”. Indeed, the technological advancements that embrace them as a generation create new opportunities for Gen Zs to mold language as a weapon in ways that have never been done before.
GEN Z TERMS AND EXPRESSIONS
The list below contains some of the most common Gen Z slangs.
A
• acm/ asim: shortened form of "asim," meaning sour, can be used to describe someone's attitude
• afam: acronym for "A Foreigner Assigned in Manila," referring to foreigners in the Philippines
• aguy: expression of pain or surprise, similar to "ouch"
• amaccana: used when you want someone to stop talking or doing something
• amf/ amp: used as an expression of annoyance or surprise
• ante/ ate: used as an endearment to someone; a respectful term for an older female
• ate: an expression of praise
• anw: short for "anyway"
• awit: short for "awww, sakit" (ouch, that hurts), used to express empathy or disappointment
• awoj: backward text for "jowa" (boyfriend or girlfriend)
• awra/ aura: to flaunt or show off, often used in the context of looking good or posing
B
• badeng/ badheng/ bading/ beki: terms for gay men, but can also be used as informal greeting for close friends
• bai: a term for friend or buddy, particularly in Visayan-speaking regions
• barbero: gossip or lies, from the word for a barber who talks a lot
• beh/ bhe: term of endearment similar to "baby"
• benta: used to describe something funny
• beshie/ beshy: term for best friend
• bet: can be used to confirm something
• boka: used when someone is talking too much
• bop: used when a song or album is exceptionally good
• borta: muscular or well-built, often used to describe bodybuilders
• boujee/ bougie: extravagant or fancy
• bounce: to leave or excuse yourself from a certain situation
• brb: short for "be right back"
• bread: money
• btw: short for "by the way"
• bussin'/ buss: used when something is very good; often used in foods
C
• cap: lies
• char/ charot: just kidding, not serious
• chararat/ chaka: ugly or unattractive
• chibog: food or to eat
• chika/ chismis: gossip
• chillax: short term for "chill and relax"
• chismakers: people who gossip
D
• daks: large or big
• dasurv/ dasurb/ daserb: deserve
• dedma: ignore or pretend not to notice
• dedz/ deds: used humorously or to describe something that's ended
• delulu: delusional
E
• edi wow/ edi nye: sarcastic expression meaning "so what" or "good for you"
• ekalal: backward text for "lalake" (man)
• eklavu: nonsense or lies
• eksena/ eksenadora: scene or someone who likes to make a scene
• elbow: escape or leave
• eme/ ems/ emz/ emi: just, as in "whatever"
• erna: to poop
• ez: easy
F
• feeling/ feelingera: someone who acts as if they are more important or capable than they are
• ferson: person, typically used humorously
• fez: face
• fit check: used when showing off the outfits worn
• flex: to show off
• for the plot: to do something regardless of the potential for a negative outcome
• forda: for the
• fresh/ frosh: looking good or clean
• frfr: short for "for real, for real"
• ftw: short for "for the win"
• fyi: short for "for your information"
G
• g: go or ready
• g na g: excited or enthusiastic
• gandara: beautiful, from "ganda" (beauty)
• gar: used as an endearment to someone, short for "kalugar"
• gaur: playful Australian accent for "go"
• ghorl/ gurl: girl
• ghosting: used when you start ignoring or stop texting someone
• goat: short for "greatest of all time"
• gorabels/ gora: let's go or to go
• grwm: short for "get ready with me"
H
• haggardo versoza: very tired or haggard
• hanash: used when someone is talking too much
• hatdog/ hakdog: used humorously with no specific meaning; often in memes
• havey: successful or effective
I
• ick: something someone does that is an instant turn-off for you
• ijbol: short for "I just burst out laughing"
• ikr: short for "I know right"
• in fairness: in fairness, used to acknowledge something positive
• in game: in the mood for something
• inday: term for a girl, particularly in Visayan-speaking regions
• irl: short for "in real life"
• istg: short for "I swear to God"
• iykyk: short for "If you know, you know"
J
• jeje: derogatory term for someone who uses "jejemon" language or style; often associated with text speak
• jontis: pregnant
• jowa: boyfriend or girlfriend
• jusq/ jusko: oh my God, expression of surprise or frustration
• juts/ jutay: small or tiny
K
• kabog: amazing or impressive; often used to describe someone who stands out
• kaloka: crazy or unbelievable
• keri/ keribels: can handle or manage
• kimi/ keme: whatever or just; often used to avoid specifics
• koket: a style characterized by playful, flirtatious, and feminine style featuring lace, ruffles, bows, and floral patterns
• kosa: friend or buddy; often used in prison slang
L
• lafang: to eat or feast
• left no crumbs: used when someone did something perfectly
• living rent-free: can't stop thinking about someone or something
• lmao: short for "laughing my ass off"
• loka/ lokaret: crazy or funny in an affectionate way
• loml: short for "love of my life"
M
• main character: someone who is generally well-liked and charismatic
• mamaru: to overreact or be overly dramatic
• mamshie/ mamsh/ mudra/ madurakels/ mhie: used as an endearment to someone; terms for a mother or a motherly figure
• maoy: to describe someone who is emotionally upset or dramatic; often due to being drunk
• marites: someone who gossips a lot
• matic: short for "automatic"
• mema: just saying anything; often used to describe someone who speaks without thinking
• merlat: girl or woman
• mid: used to insult or degrade something you don’t like, labeling it as average or poor quality
• moots: mutuals
N
• naks/ nuks: expression of admiration or praise
• naur: playful Australian accent for "no"
• nega: negative or pessimistic
• ngl: short for "not gonna lie"
• no cap: no lies or for real
• nonchalant: straight face or indifferent
O
• oa: short for "overacting"
• ofc: short for "of course"
• okray: to insult or criticize
• omsim/ omcm: backward text for "mismo" (exactly); often used to affirm
• oof: used to express discomfort, surprise, or dismay
• oomf: short for "one of my followers"
• ows: really? or is that so?
P
• pabebe: acting cute or childlike
• pak/ pak ganern: expression of excitement or approval
• periodt: used when you want to add intensity to the point made
• perpuk/ perpek: perfect
• petmalu: inverted syllables for "malupet" (awesome)
• pookie: a nickname you call your best friend or someone you really love
• push: to go for it or pursue something
Q
• qt: cute
R
• rapsa: delicious or tasty
• rizz: short term for "charisma"
S
• salty: used when someone is jealous
• saur much: playful Australian accent for "so much"
• sheesh: an expression; often a substitute for “daaaamn”
• shookt: shocked or surprised
• shunga: stupid or foolish
• simp: used when a man is overly submissive to a woman and gains nothing from it
• sis/ sizt/ sissy/ ses: used as an endearment to someone; terms for sister or female friend
• skl: short for "share ko lang"
• sksksk: expressing laughter or amusement; often used in text
• slaps: used to describe how exceptional something is
• smh: short for "shaking my head"
• sml: short for "share mo lang" or "so much love"
• smol: small or tiny
• snatched: used when someone looks really good
• stan: a big fan of that group or member
• sus: short for "suspicious" or "suspect"
T
• tbh: short for "to be
honest"
• teh: short for "ate" (older sister); used among friends
• tfw: short for "that feeling when"
U
• uki: okay
• umay/ umai: tired or fed up
• uwu: an emoticon representing a cute face
V
• vaks/ vakla/ vaklush: terms for gay men
• vibe check: a test to see if someone or something is cool or has a desired attitude
• vongga: fabulous or extravagant
W
• wapakels: don't care
• warla: war or conflict
• wdym: short for "what do you mean"
• wdyt: short for "what do you think"
• wer: where
• werpa: inverted syllables for "power," often used to cheer someone on
• wit: no or not
• woke: being politically aware
• wru: short for "where are you"
• wyd: short for "what (are) you doing"
X
• xoxo: hugs and kisses
Y
• yan/ yarn/ yern: that or that one
• yay/ yey: expression of joy or excitement
• yeet: to throw
Z
• zzz: indicating sleep or boredom
A
• acm/ asim: shortened form of "asim," meaning sour, can be used to describe someone's attitude
• afam: acronym for "A Foreigner Assigned in Manila," referring to foreigners in the Philippines
• aguy: expression of pain or surprise, similar to "ouch"
• amaccana: used when you want someone to stop talking or doing something
• amf/ amp: used as an expression of annoyance or surprise
• ante/ ate: used as an endearment to someone; a respectful term for an older female
• ate: an expression of praise
• anw: short for "anyway"
• awit: short for "awww, sakit" (ouch, that hurts), used to express empathy or disappointment
• awoj: backward text for "jowa" (boyfriend or girlfriend)
• awra/ aura: to flaunt or show off, often used in the context of looking good or posing
B
• badeng/ badheng/ bading/ beki: terms for gay men, but can also be used as informal greeting for close friends
• bai: a term for friend or buddy, particularly in Visayan-speaking regions
• barbero: gossip or lies, from the word for a barber who talks a lot
• beh/ bhe: term of endearment similar to "baby"
• benta: used to describe something funny
• beshie/ beshy: term for best friend
• bet: can be used to confirm something
• boka: used when someone is talking too much
• bop: used when a song or album is exceptionally good
• borta: muscular or well-built, often used to describe bodybuilders
• boujee/ bougie: extravagant or fancy
• bounce: to leave or excuse yourself from a certain situation
• brb: short for "be right back"
• bread: money
• btw: short for "by the way"
• bussin'/ buss: used when something is very good; often used in foods
C
• cap: lies
• char/ charot: just kidding, not serious
• chararat/ chaka: ugly or unattractive
• chibog: food or to eat
• chika/ chismis: gossip
• chillax: short term for "chill and relax"
• chismakers: people who gossip
D
• daks: large or big
• dasurv/ dasurb/ daserb: deserve
• dedma: ignore or pretend not to notice
• dedz/ deds: used humorously or to describe something that's ended
• delulu: delusional
E
• edi wow/ edi nye: sarcastic expression meaning "so what" or "good for you"
• ekalal: backward text for "lalake" (man)
• eklavu: nonsense or lies
• eksena/ eksenadora: scene or someone who likes to make a scene
• elbow: escape or leave
• eme/ ems/ emz/ emi: just, as in "whatever"
• erna: to poop
• ez: easy
F
• feeling/ feelingera: someone who acts as if they are more important or capable than they are
• ferson: person, typically used humorously
• fez: face
• fit check: used when showing off the outfits worn
• flex: to show off
• for the plot: to do something regardless of the potential for a negative outcome
• forda: for the
• fresh/ frosh: looking good or clean
• frfr: short for "for real, for real"
• ftw: short for "for the win"
• fyi: short for "for your information"
G
• g: go or ready
• g na g: excited or enthusiastic
• gandara: beautiful, from "ganda" (beauty)
• gar: used as an endearment to someone, short for "kalugar"
• gaur: playful Australian accent for "go"
• ghorl/ gurl: girl
• ghosting: used when you start ignoring or stop texting someone
• goat: short for "greatest of all time"
• gorabels/ gora: let's go or to go
• grwm: short for "get ready with me"
H
• haggardo versoza: very tired or haggard
• hanash: used when someone is talking too much
• hatdog/ hakdog: used humorously with no specific meaning; often in memes
• havey: successful or effective
I
• ick: something someone does that is an instant turn-off for you
• ijbol: short for "I just burst out laughing"
• ikr: short for "I know right"
• in fairness: in fairness, used to acknowledge something positive
• in game: in the mood for something
• inday: term for a girl, particularly in Visayan-speaking regions
• irl: short for "in real life"
• istg: short for "I swear to God"
• iykyk: short for "If you know, you know"
J
• jeje: derogatory term for someone who uses "jejemon" language or style; often associated with text speak
• jontis: pregnant
• jowa: boyfriend or girlfriend
• jusq/ jusko: oh my God, expression of surprise or frustration
• juts/ jutay: small or tiny
K
• kabog: amazing or impressive; often used to describe someone who stands out
• kaloka: crazy or unbelievable
• keri/ keribels: can handle or manage
• kimi/ keme: whatever or just; often used to avoid specifics
• koket: a style characterized by playful, flirtatious, and feminine style featuring lace, ruffles, bows, and floral patterns
• kosa: friend or buddy; often used in prison slang
L
• lafang: to eat or feast
• left no crumbs: used when someone did something perfectly
• living rent-free: can't stop thinking about someone or something
• lmao: short for "laughing my ass off"
• loka/ lokaret: crazy or funny in an affectionate way
• loml: short for "love of my life"
M
• main character: someone who is generally well-liked and charismatic
• mamaru: to overreact or be overly dramatic
• mamshie/ mamsh/ mudra/ madurakels/ mhie: used as an endearment to someone; terms for a mother or a motherly figure
• maoy: to describe someone who is emotionally upset or dramatic; often due to being drunk
• marites: someone who gossips a lot
• matic: short for "automatic"
• mema: just saying anything; often used to describe someone who speaks without thinking
• merlat: girl or woman
• mid: used to insult or degrade something you don’t like, labeling it as average or poor quality
• moots: mutuals
N
• naks/ nuks: expression of admiration or praise
• naur: playful Australian accent for "no"
• nega: negative or pessimistic
• ngl: short for "not gonna lie"
• no cap: no lies or for real
• nonchalant: straight face or indifferent
O
• oa: short for "overacting"
• ofc: short for "of course"
• okray: to insult or criticize
• omsim/ omcm: backward text for "mismo" (exactly); often used to affirm
• oof: used to express discomfort, surprise, or dismay
• oomf: short for "one of my followers"
• ows: really? or is that so?
P
• pabebe: acting cute or childlike
• pak/ pak ganern: expression of excitement or approval
• periodt: used when you want to add intensity to the point made
• perpuk/ perpek: perfect
• petmalu: inverted syllables for "malupet" (awesome)
• pookie: a nickname you call your best friend or someone you really love
• push: to go for it or pursue something
Q
• qt: cute
R
• rapsa: delicious or tasty
• rizz: short term for "charisma"
S
• salty: used when someone is jealous
• saur much: playful Australian accent for "so much"
• sheesh: an expression; often a substitute for “daaaamn”
• shookt: shocked or surprised
• shunga: stupid or foolish
• simp: used when a man is overly submissive to a woman and gains nothing from it
• sis/ sizt/ sissy/ ses: used as an endearment to someone; terms for sister or female friend
• skl: short for "share ko lang"
• sksksk: expressing laughter or amusement; often used in text
• slaps: used to describe how exceptional something is
• smh: short for "shaking my head"
• sml: short for "share mo lang" or "so much love"
• smol: small or tiny
• snatched: used when someone looks really good
• stan: a big fan of that group or member
• sus: short for "suspicious" or "suspect"
T
• tbh: short for "to be
honest"
• teh: short for "ate" (older sister); used among friends
• tfw: short for "that feeling when"
U
• uki: okay
• umay/ umai: tired or fed up
• uwu: an emoticon representing a cute face
V
• vaks/ vakla/ vaklush: terms for gay men
• vibe check: a test to see if someone or something is cool or has a desired attitude
• vongga: fabulous or extravagant
W
• wapakels: don't care
• warla: war or conflict
• wdym: short for "what do you mean"
• wdyt: short for "what do you think"
• wer: where
• werpa: inverted syllables for "power," often used to cheer someone on
• wit: no or not
• woke: being politically aware
• wru: short for "where are you"
• wyd: short for "what (are) you doing"
X
• xoxo: hugs and kisses
Y
• yan/ yarn/ yern: that or that one
• yay/ yey: expression of joy or excitement
• yeet: to throw
Z
• zzz: indicating sleep or boredom
About the author: Ma. Janna Dela Cruz is a Data Analytics Specialist at FastForward Market Research and a digital native with a passion for trends in the fast-paced online landscape. With a keen eye for the latest memes and emerging cultural phenomena, she navigates social media dynamics to provide insights on what’s trending and what’s not.
Reference: https://www.jstor.org/stable/615146
10/10/2024
Reference: https://www.jstor.org/stable/615146
10/10/2024