Viral Term '6-7' Named Dictionary.com's Word of the Year
- tech360.tv
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Dictionary.com has selected the viral term "6-7" as its word of the year. This choice reflects linguistic trends and social events, according to the organisation. Despite the selection, Dictionary.com stated it is "still trying to figure out exactly what it means."
The phrase is more of an inside joke with an unclear meaning, driven by social media. It exploded in popularity earlier this year among children and teenagers. Parents and teachers often express confusion about its usage.
The term reportedly originated from rapper Skrilla's 2024 song, "Doot Doot (6-7)." This song began appearing in TikTok videos featuring basketball players, including the NBA's LaMelo Ball, who stands 6-foot-7.
Subsequently, a boy, now known as "The 6-7 Kid," shouted the phrase in a video that went viral. This video also featured another child juggling his hands, solidifying the term's widespread use.
The precise meaning of "6-7" remains unknown. Its interpretation can vary depending on the context and the recipient. Even its written form, whether "6 7" or "six seven," is subject to debate.
Dictionary.com suggests the phrase could signify "so-so," or "maybe this, maybe that," particularly when accompanied by the juggling hands gesture. Merriam-Webster describes it as "a nonsensical expression used especially by teens and tweens." Some individuals use it simply to frustrate adults who question its meaning.
Dictionary.com characterised the term as "meaningless, ubiquitous, and nonsensical," noting these are hallmarks of "brainrot." However, the organisation also observed that "it remains meaningful to the people who use it because of the connection it fosters."
The viral sensation has prompted varied reactions globally. Parents and teachers have shared videos attempting to explain the phenomenon, with some offering advice on discouraging its constant repetition. Others have suggested embracing it, even creating "6-7" Halloween costumes, in hopes of making it less appealing.
Teachers have reportedly banned the phrase, while influencers and child psychologists have tried to decipher its significance. The term has also extended to the NFL, where it is used to celebrate significant plays.
Dictionary.com selects words that influence how people communicate, both verbally and online. The site examines search engine data, headlines, and social media trends when making its annual choice.
Online searches for "6-7" dramatically increased during the past summer, Dictionary.com stated. Searches have continued to grow, increasing by six times since June. The organisation explained that its Word of the Year selection "isn’t just about popular usage; it reveals the stories we tell about ourselves and how we’ve changed over the year."
Dictionary.com named the viral term "6-7" its word of the year.
The phrase originated from rapper Skrilla's 2024 song and a viral video featuring "The 6-7 Kid."
The term's exact meaning is unclear, though some interpret it as "so-so" or "maybe this, maybe that."
Source: AP NEWS