TikTok is rife with terms, phrases, and seemingly made up words that hide a world of meaning.
While some make sense in the world outside of social media, others are very specific to the social sphere, while others still have one meaning on TikTok but another meaning entirely outside of the app.
‘Slay’ is one of the terms that falls into the third category – chiefly because while it exists as an everyday term outside of TikTok, on the app it has a whole different use and meaning.
Here’s what ‘Slay’ means both inside and outside of TikTok.
The Meaning of Slay in The Ordinary World
Outside of TikTok, slay is a term used when someone or something is defeated or killed.
All too often, fairytales are written about princes who “slay” dragons.
What’s more, slay is also a term used to make someone laugh uncontrollably.
Meanwhile, TikTok takes the term in a different direction entirely.
Slay on TikTok: What Does it Mean?
On TikTok ‘slay’ means that someone is doing something incredibly well. It is, in short, a top tier compliment, and one used to praise an individual for something that they have done or for the attitude they bring to a situation.
It is notably a very prevalent term in the drag community and among LGBTQ+ users, with commonly used phrases including…
“You slayed that outfit!”
“Slay Queen!”
… and more.
So, is ‘slay’ a term you have seen – or used yourself – on TikTok? Now that you know a little more about what it means, you should find browsing TikTok an even more enlightening experience.
