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In this article -- about how slang words like "Mommy" and "Daddy" represent decades of cultural and social development -- two shaded figures, a boy and a young man, exclaim the word "Daddy!" in front of a blue and green background with message icons on it. The boy's version is blocky and bold, with an exclamation attached; the man's is curved and luscious, hearts fluttering around it. The boy is holding his arms up in excitement, while the man is leaning on his hip in a seductive manner.

Daddy Energy and Mommy Vibes: Exploring the Evolution of Slang

Sarah Erin, Brooklyn College

Though un-noteworthy at first glance, slang words like "Mommy" and "Daddy" represent a long and fascinating cultural evolution.…

February 14, 2024

image of people talking for an article on slang

Slang Helps People Navigate Society by Giving Them a Place to Belong

Drew Goretzka, Michigan State University

Although it's often dismissed as unprofessional and inappropriate language, the fun and sometimes confusing lingo plays an important role in uniting — and dividing.…

April 19, 2021

An image for an article about simp culture. Illustrated by Adam Lee.

How the Term ‘Simp’ Reinforces Toxic Masculinity and Objectifies Women

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

This slang term criticizes men who are nice to their partners instead of being more 'dominant.' It needs to stop for the sake of healthy relationships.…

October 11, 2020

AAVE is often used by white people on popular social media apps

Dear Non-Black People, AAVE Is Not ‘Stan’ or ‘Internet Culture’

Imani Benberry, Columbia University

The use of African American Vernacular English has become increasingly popular on social media, but ultimately, it exploits Black expression.…

August 24, 2020

'20s slang

Some Slang From the ’20s We Should Bring Back in 2020

Simona Barca, American University

History repeats itself — that’s why we should bring the words of the 1920s into the next decade.…

September 4, 2019

17 of Merriam-Webster’s Best New Words

Cameron Andersen, New York University

They’re showing the world that next-gen slang can be grammatically fun.…

September 14, 2018

14 Words and Phrases Only Millennials Seem to Understand

Sarah Hoenig, Texas A&M University

Millennials have created their own rendition of the English language.…

May 27, 2018

What’s the Difference Between Slang and AAVE?

What’s the Difference Between Slang and AAVE?

Tylah Silva, Emerson College

Understanding the cultural history of language is critical when deciding whether to bae or not to bae.…

April 4, 2017