Oxford University Press (OUP) has officially declared “rizz” as the Word of the Year for 2023. This popular internet and Gen Z slang term have found its place in the lexicon of the youth, capturing the essence of style, charm, and attractiveness. Surpassing contenders like situationship, prompt, de-influencing, and Swiftie, “rizz” has emerged as the linguistic frontrunner for the year.
Derived from the term “pristine,” “rizz” is a versatile term used primarily by Gen Z and Gen Alpha to describe an individual’s style or overall appeal. It serves as a catch-all adjective, encompassing a sense of sophistication, attractiveness, and charm. The term has taken root in various forms, including its use as a verb in expressions like “to rizz up.”
Usage Examples:
- “Her outfit is so rizz – she really knows how to put it all together.”
- “I need to rizz up before heading out; it’s a special occasion.”
- “That party was so rizz; everyone was dressed to impress.”
The acknowledgment of “rizz” as the Word of the Year reflects the rapid evolution of language, especially in the digital age. With social media platforms serving as hubs for linguistic innovation, slang terms like “rizz” find quick acceptance and widespread usage among the younger demographic. This phenomenon highlights the dynamic nature of language, constantly shaped by cultural shifts and the emergence of new generations.
As with many slang terms, “rizz” not only encapsulates a specific meaning but also fosters a sense of community and shared identity among its users. Its adoption into mainstream language showcases the influence of youth culture on linguistic trends. This demonstrates the importance of staying attuned to the evolving lexicon, as language is a reflection of societal values, trends, and attitudes.
The decision to crown “rizz” as the Word of the Year comes after careful consideration of other contenders. Terms like “situationship,” “prompt,” “de-influencing,” and “Swiftie” were strong contenders, each representing different aspects of contemporary culture. However, the widespread usage and cultural impact of “rizz” set it apart as the frontrunner for 2023.
