Middle School Jargon

By Luciana Divito

Dear Lucci, 

I just started at a new middle school. To my untrained ear, the awkward mumbling of other students is completely foreign to me. If there was a way for me to translate this nonsense, I think I’d find it a lot easier to make friends.

Please help,

Confused

Dear Confused,

It sounds like you’re having a hard time understanding the slang words used by your classmates. Here’s a little beginner’s guide to middle school lingo to help you out.

“Swag”

An adjective used by the younger generations as an alternative to the word “cool.”

Check out the snapback my mom got me from Hot Topic.

That’s so swag!

“Like A Boss”

When someone completes an action with authority or expertise. 

All the stalls were taken so Kate pissed in the water fountain like a boss.

“YOLO”

An acronym of the phrase “you only live once.” It is a call to live life to the fullest, 

regardless of the risk attached. It’s most effective when shouted. 

I’m going to ask for Sarah’s Kik ‘cause YOLO!

“Dope”

To say that something is good. It is very short and to the point. 

It’s dope when the lunch lady gives you 6 chicken nuggets instead of 5.

“Beast mode”

A mode people switch into when performing activities with extreme power, skill, or determination. Drinking a Monster energy drink helps with this transition.

Dude, I went absolute beast mode on the pacer test today. Tripled my score to a 14. 

By dropping these trendy words, you’re guaranteed a one-way ticket to Coolsville. 

You Only Live Once,

Lucci.