Discover the meaning behind 2026's most baffling slang terms and how they reflect cultural conversations across the UK and South Africa
Language evolves constantly, and 2026 was no exception. The year brought a wave of new slang terms that left many people reaching for their search engines. According to research by Word Unscrambler, these terms offer a fascinating glimpse into cultural conversations and the psychological need to belong.
Randoh Sallihall, spokesperson for Word Unscrambler, explained that slang serves as a social signal helping people navigate identity and connect with communities. The rapid spread of these terms through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram highlights their cultural significance.
The Absurdity of ’67’ and Its Internet Humor Appeal
Topping the list of most searched terms was 67 a phrase with no literal meaning. Its popularity stems from its absurdity, making it a prime example of brainrot internet humor. Originating from the song ‘Doot Doot (6 7)’ by Skrilla, the term gained further traction through a trending video by basketball player LaMelo Ball, who is 6 feet 7 inches tall.
Kids and teens often scream and chant it, paired with exaggerated hand gestures, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Navigating Identity and Belonging Through Slang
The popularity of terms like mogginggooning and rizz reflects deeper cultural conversations. Mogging refers to outclassing someone by appearing more attractive, skillful, or successful. Gooning, initially used to describe prolonged self-stimulation, has evolved to mean becoming overly obsessed with an activity. Rizz, on the other hand, signifies style, charm, or attractiveness, particularly in romantic contexts.
These terms are more than just internet jokes; they are tools for identity navigation and community belonging. As Sallihall noted, the psychological need behind slang remains constant, even as the terms themselves change rapidly. Understanding and using these words helps people feel connected to larger cultural movements.
Regional Variations and Cultural Insights
In South Africa, the term simp emerged as the most searched slang word in the Eastern Cape, reflecting regional linguistic preferences. Nationally, ’67’ dominated searches, highlighting its widespread appeal. Other terms like capaura and larping showed distinct regional popularity, offering insights into local cultural conversations.
The research by Word Unscrambler used Google Trends and Ahrefs to analyze search data, revealing the top 15 slang terms and their variations. This analysis underscores the dynamic nature of language and its role in shaping cultural identity.
