Merriam-Webster Adds Gen Z Terms Like Rizz, Adulting Reflecting English Evolution

Generation Z has reshaped cultural norms around language, style, and social interactions, as reflected in their unique slang, fashion aesthetics, and evolving attitudes toward relationships. The Merriam-Webster dictionary's 2025 update includes Gen Z terms like "rizz" (charisma), "adulting," and "doomscroll," signaling their significant influence on modern American English shaped by social media and pandemic experiences. Gen Z's conception of "cool" now centers on authenticity and accessibility, favoring visible, relatable brands integrated into everyday life rather than exclusivity or rebellion, with popular choices spanning from skincare to food and sportswear. This generation's dating practices reject traditional progressions, favoring complex, often ambiguous "situationships" and unique linguistic expressions that reflect their nuanced approach to intimacy and emotional communication. Additionally, Gen Z's consumption habits emphasize fast, snackable content on platforms like TikTok, mirroring their broader desire for immediacy and connection in both social and cultural realms. Together, these trends highlight Gen Z's distinct cultural footprint that combines digital fluency with a pragmatic, socially conscious outlook.