6-7″ Named Word of the Year by Dictionary.com Exploring Its Cultural Impact in 2023

“6-7” Declared Word of the Year, Signaling a Shift in How Generation Alpha Communicates

October 30, 2025

The term “6-7,” a seemingly meaningless expression popular among members of Generation Alpha, has been officially designated as Dictionary.com‘s Word of the Year for 2025. It surpassed other contenders such as “aura farming,” “broligarchy,” “tradwife,” and the dynamite emoji, highlighting the unique linguistic landscape shaping youth culture today.

Dictionary.com announced it’s selection on Wednesday, noting that its annual Word of the Year selections represent notable moments in language and cultural trends. These words act as a record,illustrating the major social events and shifts that define each year.

The Rise of an Ambiguous Term

Lexicographers at the reference website revealed their analysis included Examination of news coverage, social media discussions, and search queries. Despite thorough investigation, the precise meaning of “6-7” remains elusive, even to those defining it. The term’s origins can be traced back to a song released last December, “Doot Doot (6-7),” by rapper Skrilla.

The song quickly gained traction on TikTok, becoming a prominent sound used in compilation videos featuring basketball player LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets. Within a short period, educators began noticing widespread use of the phrase among their students, prompting online discussions on how to address its prevalence in classrooms.

What Does ‘6-7’ Actually Mean?

Interpretations of “6-7” vary. Some suggest it represents ambivalence, functioning as a noncommittal response akin to “maybe” or “perhaps”. More frequently, though, it appears to be used as a generalized response to almost any question or statement. The term’s lack of a concrete definition is, according to Dictionary.com, its most striking characteristic.

Experts describe it as a symbol of “brainrot,” representing the effects of constant online exposure and data overload.The use of “6-7” reflects a culture of endless scrolling and algorithm-driven content consumption.

Word of the Year	Year	Significance
6-7	2025	Represents Gen Alpha’s ambiguous communication and digital culture.
Aura Farming	2025 (Nominee)	Reflects the pursuit of online validation.
Broligarchy	2025 (Nominee)	Highlights power dynamics among men.

Did You Know? The selection of ‘6-7’ sparks a larger dialog about how new words enter common usage and the challenges of deciphering youth slang.

The Evolving Landscape of Slang

The phenomenon of “6-7” underscores how rapidly language evolves, especially within younger generations and online communities. slang terms frequently originate on platforms like TikTok and quickly permeate everyday conversation. This trend has implications for educators, marketers, and anyone seeking to understand contemporary culture.

Pro tip: staying informed about evolving slang can help bridge generational gaps and foster more effective communication.

According to a recent Pew Research Center study published in July 2024, 85% of teenagers report using slang terms regularly in their online interactions.This highlights the pervasive influence of digital platforms on language development.

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘6-7’

• What is the origin of the term ‘6-7’? It originated from rapper Skrilla’s song “Doot Doot (6-7)” and gained popularity on TikTok.
• What does ‘6-7’ mean? its meaning is largely ambiguous, often used as a noncommittal response or simply as filler.
• Why was ‘6-7’ chosen as Word of the Year? Dictionary.com selected it as it encapsulates significant cultural and linguistic trends.
• Is ‘6-7’ a sign of declining language skills? Some argue it reflects the impact of constant online exposure, while others consider it a natural evolution of language.
• Where can I learn more about the Word of the Year selection? You can find more information on the Dictionary.com website.

What are your thoughts on “6-7” being named Word of the Year? Do you think it’s a reflection of a deeper cultural trend?

Share your insights in the comments below!

What does the selection of “6-7” as Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year suggest about the evolving nature of language and communication?

The Rise of “6-7” as a Defining Term

In a surprising yet telling move, dictionary.com designated “6-7” as its 2023 Word of the Year. This isn’t a traditional word, but rather a shorthand expression originating from a viral TikTok video. The selection highlights a meaningful shift in how we communicate online and the growing influence of internet culture on mainstream language. Understanding the meaning of 6-7 and its rapid ascent is crucial for grasping current cultural trends. This article delves into the origins, spread, and broader implications of this unconventional linguistic phenomenon.

origins on TikTok: The Viral Video Explained

The phrase “6-7” stems from a video posted by TikTok user @jordan_the_stallion8 in July 2023.In the video, Jordan asks his friend to describe his day using only numbers. The friend responds with “6-7,” a seemingly nonsensical answer that quickly became a meme.

* The initial video garnered millions of views.

* Users began creating their own videos responding to the prompt with “6-7,” frequently enough in situations where a detailed explanation felt overwhelming or unneeded.

* The ambiguity of “6-7” allowed for broad interpretation, contributing to its virality.

* The phrase quickly transcended its original context, becoming a general response to any question requiring a complex or emotionally draining answer.

Why Dictionary.com Chose “6-7”

Dictionary.com’s selection wasn’t about the literal meaning of the numbers. Rather, it represented a larger trend: the increasing use of internet slang and coded language to express complex emotions and experiences.

Here’s why “6-7” resonated with the dictionary’s editorial team:

* Captures a Mood: The phrase embodies a sense of exhaustion, apathy, and the desire to avoid oversharing.

* Reflects Online Communication: It’s a prime example of how communication is evolving in the digital age, prioritizing brevity and shared understanding.

* demonstrates Meme Culture’s Power: “6-7” showcases the ability of memes to rapidly spread and become ingrained in popular culture.

* search Data Spike: Dictionary.com reported a significant increase in searches for “6-7” throughout 2023, indicating widespread curiosity and adoption.Dictionary.com Word of the Year selections frequently enough reflect trending search terms.

Cultural Impact and Broader Trends

The popularity of “6-7” isn’t isolated. It’s part of a larger pattern of internet slang influencing everyday language. Consider terms like “rizz,” “slay,” and “cap” – all originating online and now commonly used in mainstream conversation.

* Gen Z Language: “6-7” is particularly popular among Gen Z, who are driving much of the innovation in online language.

* Emotional Labor & Boundaries: The phrase can be seen as a response to the pressure to constantly be “on” and share personal experiences. It’s a way to signal a need for emotional boundaries.

* The Rise of Ambiguity: In a world saturated with facts, ambiguity can be a powerful tool for connection and shared understanding.

* Impact on Mental Health Discourse: Some commentators suggest “6-7” reflects a growing awareness of mental health struggles and a reluctance to articulate difficult emotions.

“6-7” in context: Examples of Usage

Understanding how “6-7” is used in real-world conversations is key to appreciating its cultural significance.

* Scenario 1: Friend: “How was your date?” Response: “6-7.” (Meaning: It was bad, elaborate, or I don’t want to talk about it.)

* Scenario 2: Boss: “Can you explain the project’s setbacks?” Response: “6-7.” (meaning: It’s a long story, and I’m not up for explaining it right now.)

* Scenario 3: Family member: “how are you doing