Basic TikTok Lingo Explained

Polarity Technologies Ltd.
2 min readOct 25, 2021

Dozens of slang terms and acronyms have been generated the last couple of years due to TikTok’s rising popularity. The video-based social media app, has become massively popular among Gen Z since its founding in 2016.

Teenagers and younger adults are flocking to the app to watch and share entertaining videos, and take part in the latest Trends. The older generations, mainly Millennials, often find it hard to fully understand the TikTok lingo.

If you’ve spent any period of time on TikTok you have probably encountered a number of words or acronyms that you don’t get the meaning of. Some of these are specific to TikTok, and others are terms used on the internet more broadly.

Here are some of the most popular terms used on TikTok according to Connor Bennett, Dexterto.

FYP

FYP stands for For You Page, and refers to the tab you first see upon launching the app. The TikTok algorithm picks up on what you’re interested in, and is using it to suggest more relevant content.

PFP

This is a general term on social media platforms including Twitter that stands for ‘Profile Picture’.

CEO

To be the Chief Executive Officer of something means that you are the best at a certain thing, and is generally being used as a compliment.

POV

POV stands for ‘Point Of View’ and refers to a trend in which the video shows the viewer’s point of view of a certain situation. This trend usually takes inspiration from daily life situations.

No Cap

“No cap” means “no lie”. Another expression for “seriously”.

Flex

This TikTok slang word in English, flex, just means to brag about something that is good.

Accountant

This term is being used by people with various hard-to-explain jobs, particularly for creators who make adult content.

Slay

If something or someone “slays” it means that they are doing a great job or that they are really cool.

Extra

If somebody calls you extra, they mean that you are being over the top.

Fire (or Lit)

If something is considered fire it means it is very good. You can also use the word lit to say something is cool.

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