Snapchat: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Gen Z Slang
Snapchat’s enduring popularity among Gen Z users is undeniable, with over 414 million active daily users globally. While its ephemeral messaging and playful filters add a unique charm to the platform, it also introduces a lexicon of slang terms and acronyms that can leave outsiders scratching their heads.
To help you decipher the secret language of Snapchat, here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most commonly used slang terms:
ESB: Everyone Snap Back
This acronym signifies a request for all recipients to send a Snap in return, typically to maintain a Snap streak.
FFF: Follow For Follow
A proposition to follow each other on Snapchat, ensuring mutual follows.
HMU: Hit Me Up
An invitation to contact the sender, often used as ‘HMU later’ (get in touch later).
ICL: I Can’t Lie
Expresses agreement or honesty, though it can also mean ‘In Christian Love’ in some contexts.
MMS: Made Me Smile
A simple expression of joy or amusement, or a reference to the Multimedia Messaging Service.
NRS: No Replies
Indicates that the sender is unavailable to send snaps at the moment, often due to sleep, busyness, or lack of data.
PU: Pop Up
A request to join the sender on Snapchat for a chat.
SB: Snap Back
A straightforward call to reply to a Snap message.
SCM: Snapchat Me
A desire for a reply or a request to move the conversation to Snapchat. In professional settings, it may refer to Social Media Optimization.
SFS/S4S: Snap for Snap
A mutually beneficial arrangement to promote each other’s Snapchat accounts.
SMH: Shaking My Head
A cross-platform expression of disappointment or bewilderment.
SMO: Serious Mode On
Indicates a shift to a more serious or non-joking tone. Alternatively, it can mean ‘Shout Me Out’ (requesting a social media mention).
SR: Slow Replies
Warns of potential delays in response times, or may refer to ‘Streaks and Recents’ (mass snaps sent to streaks or recent Snapchat contacts).
Snap Score:
Quantifies a user’s engagement on Snapchat, with higher scores indicating more frequent Snap usage.
Streak:
A consecutive streak of daily Snaps exchanged between two users, represented by a flame icon and a day count.
SU: Swipe Up
Directs users to swipe up on a Snapchat Story to access a linked web page.
TM: Text Message
Indicates a text message, or in different contexts, ‘Too Much’ or ‘Trust Me’.
WYLL: What You Look Like
Can be a playful request for a selfie or a more pointed observation about one’s appearance.
