It’s been two years since Decoding Middle School Language (part 1) made its debut. Which means our daughter, Kynlee, had just finished sixth grade. She has now fully completed what most would call the hardest of all school years. The whole Jolly family is celebrating as we send our last child off to Tate High School in the Fall – Go Aggies!
My name is Karen Jolly and I’m the wife of Doug Jolly, and Mama of Kalli (22), Kole (10) and Kynlee Jolly (13) Macgregor (5 human / 35 dog years) and Bear (2 human / dog teenager). We’re a family that lives life to the fullest, supports various organizations in our community, and serves faithfully at our local church, Momentum. I’m a self-published author, VP and social media strategist at Red Iron Design, board director for the Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation, aspiring TikTok sensation, and now, the newest weekly staff writer for Local Pulse. I have a heart for fellow parents. Because raising good humans is HARD. And you don’t really find out how hard it is until you’re in the messy middle of it all.
So, I’m here to help. Not because I’m perfect, because I’ve been there. Not because I know it all, because I don’t. But because when I needed help as a mom, my friends were there, and I didn’t feel alone. So here I am, offering you advice and a weekly column to remind you, you’re not alone.
As I reread the article written in June of 2023 (Part 1) I laughed because most of these words I was defining for you are now quite commonplace. OOTD, FOMO, Clout, Salty, Lowkey, Highkey, Ghost, Slay…the list goes on. Some stuck around, some words came and went pretty quickly. Like most trends, a new wave has appeared and it’s time to redefine the words coming from your middle or high schooler you may hear this summer. Remember – don’t dare use them (unless you’re intentionally being ‘cringe’). This is for informational purposes only.
Rizz: Short for “charisma,” charm – especially used when flirting or attracting others. “He’s got rizz.”
It’s Giving (fill in the blank): But do not, under any circumstances, complete that sentence. For example: “It’s giving 90’s.” This means, something make look or seem like it’s from the 1990s. You or I would complete that sentence with the word “vibes.” But don’t. Resist the urge. Trust me.
Aura Points: This is a fun, made-up way to compliment someone’s energy or overall presence. Think of it as they’re gaining invisible “coolness” or “charisma” points. It’s often used playfully, like giving someone credit for looking good or giving off positive energy.
Aura Farming: When someone deliberately curates their vibe – through outfits, social posts, attitude, or friendships – to project a carefully crafted “cool” persona. Think of it as “trying too hard.”
Sharkin: Slang for being “on the prowl” often referring to hunting for a boyfriend/girlfriend especially during the summer.
Glazing: Giving overly enthusiastic or insincere praise. Teens use it to call out excessive compliments or bias (“stop glazing me”).
Diva Down: A moment when someone who’s been confident or acting “diva-like” gets humbled or embarrassed – it’s the opposite of “queen energy.”
Ate: Zero reference to food here. It’s used when someone does something exceptionally well – could be their outfit, performance, a comeback, or even a TikTok dance. It’s their version of our “nailed it” and continues further when used with the following words. Other forms of the word you may hear – “that eats, that ate, you ate, you’re eating.”
Left No Crumbs: Used in conjunction with the word above, this means that whatever was done so well, could not possibly be improved upon. “Girl that outfit ate, no crumbs.” Shortening the sentence is acceptable.
FR: Short for “for real” and used to emphasize sincerity or agreement.
Crash Out: To lose control emotionally. It’s their version of our “freak out.”
Spill the Tea: To share gossip, tell the truth, or reveal juicy or dramatic information. If your teen comes up to you and says, “I’ve got tea,” get comfy and listen up. It’s going to be good. It’s present tense for “Give me the scoop.”
Yap: This one makes sense but once you read this it may sound a little harsh. It means to talk too much, run your mouth, or say something unnecessary of annoying. It’s often used when someone is being loud, overdramatic, or talking without thinking. “Bro, quit the yap, it’s not even making sense.” Ouch.
Glow Up: It’s what every middle school girl is hoping for before their ninth-grade year. Even though most of them have never endured the “awkward years” we had to endure thanks to TikTok and YouTube make up tutorials they began watching around the age of 6. It means someone or something underwent a major transformation, usually in style, appearance, or overall vibe.
Hits Different: It’s when something affects you in a more powerful, emotional, or unique way than usual. It could be a song, memory, or even food – it just feels extra meaningful or intense.
Main Character Energy: Acting or carrying yourself like you’re the star of the story – confident, self-assured, and living life unapologetically. It’s about owning your moment and standing out, often with a mix of style, independence, and purpose.
Girly Pops: A cute, playful way to refer to your close girlfriends, especially those who are bubbly, sweet, stylish, or into all things “girl world.” It’s like saying “besties” but with extra sparkle.
Skibidi: This may be one of the most unique words to date. Originating from a YouTuber who introduced “skibidi toilet,” it’s used to describe something weird, random, or silly – a chaotic, absurd, and often nonsensical trend or vibe.
And last but certainly, oh so very certainly, not least…
Touch Grass after a Menty B: We’ll need to break this one down a little further, moms and pops. “Menty B” is short for “mental breakdown.” It’s a cute, iconic way to refer to feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just losing it a little. “Touch Grass” is a phrase that refers to going outside to get a reality check or take a break from the chaos – especially digital drama or overthinking. Ever heard of “grounding” yourself by touching the earth? It’s that. Now put them together and think of it this way: After completely spiraling (mentally or emotionally), go do something grounding and calming – like walk outside, breathe, and reset. “Me after crying over nothing at 2AM: time to touch grass after that Menty B.”
Remember parents, knowledge is power. Use the above words with caution IF you use them at all. At least when the girly pops or bros are in the back seat of the van, you’ll be able to better understand their world and get a little glimpse of what’s really going on in their lives. Stay strong, and know these words are ever changing. Urban dictionary is your friend. If you hear a word you don’t know, look it up. But never tell them you did.
You’ve got this mom and dad! We’re in this together.
Karen Jolly, Local Pulse Staff Writer
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