Teen slang translator: What does "rizz" mean?

Did you know that “rizz” was named 2023 Word of the Year by the Oxford English Dictionary? Maybe you’ve heard the slang term rizz in conversation or seen it on social media, but what does it actually mean? While it may seem like a made-up word, there is an official definition of rizz. Let's dive deeper into the origin of rizz and its meanings.

1. Definitions of rizz

According to the Oxford University Press, rizz is “a colloquial word, defined as style, charm, or attractiveness.” But it has other meanings, too, depending on the context in which it's used. Some common rizz definitions include:

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• Possessing charisma, charm, and personality

• Being able to attract others romantically

• To flirt with someone or act flirty around them

• Something cool or impressive (similar to "lit")

2. Origin of rizz as a slang term

The exact origin of the word rizz has many theories, but many associate it with a shortened version of the word “charisma.” 

As common pop culture slang, it started going more mainstream on social media sites like TikTok and Twitch. One social media influencer, Kai Cenat, claims he coined the current incarnation of the term. The popular live-streamer has been quoted as saying that for him, it boils down to having “game.”  

3. Rizz variations and how to use rizz in a sentence

Is rizz a noun or a verb? Yes, to both! Rizz is mainly used in informal settings, conversations with friends, or social media. It's often used as a noun, but not always. 

Variation examples

• Rizzed up: Used rizz to your benefit. “She’s out of his league, but he rizzed her up.”

• Rizzing: Flirting or talking up.

• Unspoken rizz: When you have so much game, you don’t even need rizz.

Examples in conversation

• “He’s got mad rizz.” (charisma, charm - sometimes despite a lack of obvious charm or charisma) 

• "That party last night was rizz!" (cool/awesome)

• “He rizzed her up.” (charm as a verb, usually in the context of a challenge)

Do you have mad rizz?

Rizz is an informal slang term with multiple meanings and forms. Its exact origin is debatable, but it's become a popular word used in everyday conversations and on social media. So next time you hear someone say, "That's rizz," you'll know exactly what they mean.