Gen Alpha Slang Takes Over: The Rise of Confusing Online Lingo
The internet is constantly evolving, and one area where this evolution is particularly evident is in the language used by younger generations. A study by Unscramblerer analyzed Google Search trends from January to August 2026 and found that people are searching for the meanings of various Gen Alpha slang terms more than ever before.
According to Randoh Sallihal, a spokesperson for Unscramblerer, 'using slang is a social signal. What people search for can tell us something about what they are trying to understand and participate in culturally.' He added that psychology suggests using slang helps people navigate identity and belong to a community.
The study found that some of the most searched expressions include '6-7', which has become an internet phenomenon after appearing in rapper Skrilla's song, 'Doot Doot (6 7)'. Other terms include 'chud', referring to someone considered unpleasant or unattractive, and 'rizz', a shortened version of 'charisma' that refers to someone's charm or ability to flirt.
The study also highlighted how existing words have been repurposed by younger internet users. For example, 'LARP', originally associated with live-action role-playing, has been transformed into 'larper' or 'larping', which can now describe someone pretending to have a lifestyle or identity they do not actually possess.