TikTok, a widely-used social media platform, has amassed a massive user base exceeding one billion people globally, renowned for its viral trends, challenges, and unique slang. Among the frequently used terms on TikTok, “slay” stands out prominently. But what does “slay” mean within the context of TikTok, and what’s its origin? In this article, we will delve into the roots, significance, and application of the term “slay” on TikTok.
The Origin of “Slay”
The term “slay” has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Historically, it finds its roots in Germany, where it meant “to violently kill.” However, this word also carries a more positive connotation, signifying “to make someone laugh” or “to impress someone with one’s skill or appearance.”
In the 1970s and 1980s, “slay” gained popularity among minority communities, particularly within black and brown populations. Subsequently, it was embraced by the LGBTQ+ community, becoming a common expression within the ball culture, a subculture primarily comprised of drag queens and transgender individuals who engage in dance and fashion competitions.
The term “slay” was featured prominently in the 1991 documentary “Paris Is Burning,” shedding light on the lives of drag queens in 1980s New York.
The mainstream recognition of “slay” received a significant boost when Beyoncé featured it in her 2016 song “Formation,” where she proclaimed, “I slay, all day.” Since then, “slay” has emerged as a widely used term in pop culture and across various social media platforms, with TikTok being no exception.
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The Meaning of “Slay” on TikTok
On TikTok, “slay” carries a meaning similar to the expression “killing it.” Typically, it is employed when discussing fashion or attitude, often in reference to women or members of the LGBTQ+ community. It can serve as both a verb and an adjective, describing someone who excels at something or looks exceptionally fantastic.
For instance, if a TikTok user posts a video showcasing their dance moves or singing skills, they might caption it with phrases like “slaying this choreo” or “slaying this song.” Alternatively, when viewers come across a video featuring someone who looks stunning or performs exceptionally well, they may leave comments like “you slay” or “slay queen” to compliment the individual.
Furthermore, “slay” frequently doubles as a hashtag to broaden the reach of content or to engage in ongoing trends. For example, some TikTok creators employ the hashtag #slaychallenge to showcase their outfits or makeup skills, while others use #slaywithpride to celebrate their identity and sexuality, particularly during Pride Month.
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The Usage of “Slay”
TikTokers employ the term “slay” in diverse contexts and situations. Here are some common ways in which TikTok users utilize this term:
In addition to these uses, TikTokers have crafted variations of “slay” by combining it with other words. For example, “slayage” refers to the act or state of slaying, while “slayedt” is used to emphasize just how spectacularly someone has slayed a particular task or situation.
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Conclusion
In summary, “slay” is a versatile and pervasive term on TikTok with deep-rooted origins in minority and queer culture. It signifies excellence in performance or appearance and can be wielded as a verb, adjective, or hashtag to convey admiration, appreciation, or encouragement. TikTok users have even forged creative adaptations of “slay” to celebrate their self-expression, creativity, and confidence within the platform.
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