What Does "Slay" Mean?
What "Slay" Really Means
Slay means to perform, look, or act in an impressively excellent way. Telling someone "you slayed that" means they absolutely nailed it. Saying "slay" as a standalone exclamation is an expression of approval and hype, similar to saying "yes!" or "that's amazing." The term has deep roots in LGBTQ+ ballroom culture from the 1970s-80s, brought to wider mainstream attention through shows like RuPaul's Drag Race, and then exploded across all demographics through social media and Beyoncé's music.
Origin & History
LGBTQ+ ballroom culture; mainstream via RuPaul's Drag Race and social media.
Tone & Context
This slang is generally considered positive in tone. Widely used across demographics. Appropriate in casual and semi-casual contexts.
Example Sentences
- "She walked in wearing that dress and absolutely slayed."
- "Slay! You got the job offer!"
- "The way she presented her project — she slayed that boardroom."
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Browse our full Gen Z Slang dictionary for more terms, or check the complete slang glossary.