BREAKING: Dictionary.com has declared the viral term ‘6-7’ as its 2025 Word of the Year, a phenomenon that has captured the cultural zeitgeist across America. The announcement, made earlier today, highlights how this term has rapidly permeated social media and youth culture, making a significant impact on communication among Gen Alpha.
Latest reports indicate that the term is not just a slang; it’s a cultural signal that resonates emotionally. According to Steve Johnson, Ph.D., Director of Lexicography at Dictionary.com, “Few slang terms have captured the cultural mood of 2025 quite like ‘6 7’… When people say it, they’re not just repeating a meme; they’re shouting a feeling.” This underscores the term’s unique role as both an interjection and a social connector.
The origin of the ‘6-7’ meme can be traced back to rapper Skrilla and his song “Doot Doot (6 7)”. The trend exploded in popularity after basketball star LaMelo Ball referenced it, using the term to denote his height. The meme has since invaded classrooms and social media platforms, leaving parents and educators puzzled about its meaning.
A press release from Dictionary.com revealed that the term’s popularity skyrocketed, with usage in digital media increasing six times in October 2025 compared to the previous year. “This shows how seamlessly today’s slang blends digital humor, sports culture, and generational creativity,” added Johnson.
Despite its popularity, Dictionary.com admits that even they struggle to pinpoint an exact definition for ‘6-7’, which is pronounced “six-seven” and should never be referred to as “sixty-seven.” This ambiguity adds to its allure, as the term continues to evolve within the cultural landscape.
Alongside ‘6-7’, Dictionary.com introduced six additional words to their lexicon this year, reflecting the influence of Gen Z and social media. Among these are ‘aura-farming’, which refers to the cultivation of one’s charisma for online attention, and the ‘Gen Z stare’, known for its blank or unbothered expression.
The inclusion of these terms reveals a broader trend of language evolving in real-time, shaped by digital interactions and generational shifts. As more youth adopt these phrases, the implications for communication and cultural understanding will be significant.
This announcement not only highlights the dynamic nature of language today but also raises questions about how slang will continue to evolve. As Dictionary.com tracks linguistic trends, the world watches closely to see what words will define the next generation.
For those following the Gen Alpha trend, the impact of ‘6-7’ is clear—it’s more than just a phrase; it’s a movement that reflects the voices of today’s youth. Stay tuned for more updates as this cultural phenomenon continues to unfold.
