No matter how puritans might hate it, the English language, as any language for that matter, is constantly shifting, expanding and transforming. Previously, languages would influence one another based on proximity. French would influence English and vice-versa. But now, the world is smaller and borders between countries are thinning. On the internet, some people seem to have a language of their own. And while parents might scorn and others laugh, you should know in all seriousness that some of the weirdest internet slang words are actually real words now, as in they can be found in the Oxford English Dictionary. Let’s just look at some:
1. Srsly (adv.)
Seriously.
“Srsly though, I see where you’re coming from.”
2. Screenager (n.)
A person in their teens or twenties who has an aptitude for computers and the internet.
“Clever games designers have worked out exactly how to push the buttons of screenagers in the way other media have failed to do.”
3. Meatspace (n.)
The physical world, as opposed to the virtual world.
“I’d like to know a little more before we get together in meatspace.”
4. Dox (v.)
To search for and publish private or identifying information about a particular individual on the internet, typically with malicious intent.
“Hackers and online vigilantes routinely dox both public and private figures.”
5. Lamestream (adj. & n.)
Used to refer contemptuously to the mainstream media.
“Why as the lamestream media been so silent on the issue?”
6. Fat finger (n.)
Used to refer to clumsy or inaccurate typing, typically resulting from one finger striking two keys at the same time.
“The programming problem turned out to be a case of fat finger.”
7. Nom nom (exclamation)
Used to express pleasure at eating, or at the prospect of eating, delicious food.
“Chili and cornbread for dinner, nom nom!”
8. Facepalm (n.)
A gesture in which the palm of one’s hand is brought to one’s face as an expression of dismay, exasperation, embarrassment, etc.
“I’m pretty sure said friend now thinks Anne and I are dating — facepalm!”
9. Woot (exclamation)
Used to express elation, enthusiasm, or triumph, especially in electronic communication.
“I definitely get Fridays off, woot!”
10. Boyf (n.)
A person’s boyfriend.
“She’s just been dumped by her boyf.”
