“6-7” Named Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year,Signaling Generational Shift
A seemingly meaningless exclamation point,popular among Gen Z and Gen Alpha,has been chosen as Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year,highlighting a cultural trend of in-group dialog and generational divides.
The American online dictionary, Dictionary.com, announced on November 30 that “6-7” – a vocalization often accompanied by an upward palm movement – has resonated most powerfully in the cultural lexicon this year. The term, used by American teenagers to express empathy and continue conversation, is similar in context to “huh” or “what” in korea. This marks the first time an exclamation has received the honor in the publication’s history of naming a “Word of the Year.”
Every year, Dictionary.com analyzes data from news headlines, social media trends, and search volume to determine the expression with the greatest cultural impact.In 2022, the word “demure,” popularized by TikTok beauty influencer Jules Lebron, was selected, while 2023’s choice was “hallucinate,” reflecting anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and misinformation.
The Rise of “6-7” and Generational Identity
The expression “6-7” is gaining traction among members of Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) and the emerging Generation Alpha (born around 2010). Its origins are traced back to rapper Skrilla’s song “Doot Doot (6, 7),” and it rapidly spread through platforms like TikTok this summer. Initially, the term was frequently used in videos playfully mocking athletes’ underperformance.
Despite its widespread adoption, the meaning of “6-7” remains intentionally ambiguous. It functions as a vague expression of sympathy, akin to saying “I feel you” or “that’s rough.” Dictionary.com explained that, despite lacking a concrete definition, “6-7” serves “as a symbol that builds consensus between generations and shows a sense of belonging.”
Though, the term’s function extends beyond simple empathy. Linguist and Texas A&M University professor Salvatore Attardo interprets “6-7″ as a cultural marker.”It’s a culture formed by teenagers to create a sense of belonging as ‘we are a group that knows this joke’ and to differentiate themselves from the older generation who do not understand,” he stated.
A divisive trend: From Social Connection to Classroom Disruption
This intentional ambiguity and in-group signaling are central to the term’s appeal. It allows younger generations to establish a shared identity and subtly exclude those unfamiliar with the trend. This dynamic is not without its consequences.
The use of “6-7” has proven disruptive in educational settings. A teacher in the United States shared on social media that even the mere mention of “6 or 7” in the classroom triggers outbursts from students, leading to classroom disruptions and, ultimately, a ban on its use.
The selection of “6-7” as Word of the Year underscores a broader trend: the increasing importance of online culture and youth-driven language in shaping contemporary communication. While its meaning may be unclear to some, its impact on the cultural landscape is undeniable
