Dictionary.com has controversially named "6-7," a viral and largely meaningless term popular among teens and tweens, as its word of the year, sparking confusion among adults and highlighting social media's influence on language.
Dictionary.com's word of the year for 2024 is "6-7," a viral term that has captivated kids and teenagers but left adults baffled. Described as more of an inside joke than a traditional word, its meaning remains largely unclear, though Dictionary.com suggests it could imply "so-so" or "maybe this, maybe that" when combined with a specific hand gesture. The term's origin is traced back to rapper Skrilla's 2024 song "Doot Doot (6-7)," which gained traction on TikTok, notably in videos featuring basketball players like 6-foot-7 LaMelo Ball. It then exploded in popularity after a viral video of "The 6-7 Kid" shouting the phrase. Merriam-Webster labels it a "nonsensical expression," often used by youth to frustrate adults. Despite its lack of clear definition, Dictionary.com chose "6-7" due to its dramatic six-fold increase in online searches since June, reflecting its significant influence on current communication and social trends, particularly among younger generations. Parents and teachers have reacted with confusion, frustration, and attempts to either ban or embrace the ubiquitous phrase.
