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1593
- While the term slay is often used in the context of murder or killing, first use of the term as slang is first listed in 1593, meaning something similar to "dying of laughter."
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slay_(slang)
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What does slay mean in slang?
When did slay become a slang word?
Where does slay come from?
When was Slay used?
What is a slay & why is it so popular?
What does it mean when a girl says slay?
Slay is a slang colloquialism that possibly originated during the 1600s, but gained its current LGBT connotation in the 1970s from ball culture. Originally having a meaning similar to "that joke was killer", slay has since gained a definition meaning being impressed or term of agreement.
Oct 18, 2018 · Slay is an old word with Germanic roots that’s found in early Old English, but it was generally reserved for killing mythical beasts and vanquishing enemies on the battlefield—GOT style. Fast forward to the 1920s, the age of jazz, flappers, and some serious slang.
- Overview
- What does “slay” mean?
- Using the Term “Slay”
- Where does the term “slay” come from?
We're here to explain what "slay" means over text and on social media platforms like TikTok. Read on to learn the definition, how to use "slay," and where the term originated. You'll be
the slang game in no time!
“Slay” is a slang term used by Gen Z to say, “You’ve killed it!” or “You’re doing great, sweetie!”
While texting, the term is often paired with emojis like “💅,” “🔥,” and “ 💁♀️” for sassy emphasis.
“Slay” is a slang term that means someone has done well.
The word “slay” is used by Gen Z as a compliment in everyday conversation, over text, or on social media. When someone says you “slayed” something, you “killed it” or did a good job. It’s a positive, encouraging term that expresses confidence and support.
For example, a friend may text, “You
your audition! 🤩” to say, “You were awesome at the audition!”
Someone may comment on an Instagram post, “SLAYYY,” if they think someone’s outfit is fabulous.
“Slay” literally means to kill.
Text a friend “slay” if they’re doing an incredible job.
Is your friend looking “on fleek” these days? Have they been “killing it” at their new job? Did they ace a test? Well, text them a quick message with the word “slay” to show how proud of them you are! Here are some examples:
“SLAY GIRL 💁♀️ Where’d you get that dress??”
“OMG you are slaying the game! A feature on the website? Iconic.”
“I’m so proud of you, friend! You’re slaying the game!! 😆💯👍”
Comment “slay” on social media to say, “You’re killing it!” Let a friend or influencer know that you admire them or love their aesthetic with the term “slay.” [4]
Today's use of “slay” originates from '80s LGBTQ+ culture.
While the exact origins of this slang term are unknown, many believe “slay” started to be used as a compliment by African Americans in the LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s or 1990s.
The phrase was used to praise drag performers and quickly became a widely known compliment for all types of performances outside of the queer scene.
Some records show “slay” being used as early as the 1920s with the phrase “You slay me!” which means “to make someone laugh.”
Using “slay” to describe someone who is “killing it” fashionably became mainstream in 2009 with the introduction of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The expression “Yes, queen! Slay!” became popular in 2016 after Beyonce’s song “Formation,” which repeats the phrase “I slay” in the chorus.
While the term slay is often used in the context of murder or killing, first use of the term as slang is first listed in 1593, meaning something similar to "dying of laughter." [1] It saw a resurgence in the Roaring Twenties under a very similar meaning.
Dec 16, 2022 · Slay is a slang term that is often used to mean “to do something extremely well or to achieve success.” It is commonly used as a way to praise someone for their accomplishments or to express admiration for something they have done.
Jun 20, 2024 · Slay is an interesting term that has transformed from its literal meaning to a popular slang with positive connotation. Traditionally, the term “slay” means to “kill someone violently”. However, as language evolves, the word “slay” has taken on new meanings in the world of slang.
Apr 11, 2024 · The origins of “slay” can be traced back to African American Vernacular English (AAVE), where it was initially used to mean “to impress or amaze.” Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a sense of dominance, power, and excellence.
