TikTok slang explained: FYP, POV, PFP – What do they mean?

TikTokers have managed to create their own language and slang words, and it can be hard to keep up to date with everything. Here are the explanations of some of the most common TikTok slang words.

While TikTok has been around since 2016, the past few years have undoubtedly been the most prolific yet for the video-based social media app, with internet users flocking to the platform to share funny videos, tips, and memes, and to join in on the latest trends.

But if you’ve scrolled through the platform for any period of time, you’ve more than likely encountered a few words or acronyms for which you don’t know the meaning. Some of these are specific to TikTok, and others are commonly used terms used on the internet more broadly.

Here are some of the most popular terms used on TikTok.

Contents

• POV, FYP, PFP, CEO meaning on TikTok
• What do accountant, ion, and asl mean on TikTok?
• What do mid, Pushin P, and AS mean on TikTok?
• What do SA, NP, and RMP mean on TikTok?
• What does the chair emoji mean on TikTok?
• What do moots, W, and L mean on TikTok?
• What do /srs, storytime, and crop mean on TikTok?
• What do SMH, fake body, IB, and unspoken rizz mean on TikTok?
• What do Krissed, ISTG, and BBL mean on TikTok?
• What do Pinned, SW, and /hj mean on TikTok?
• What do GRWM, IMSG, and Slay mean on TikTok?
• What do PSA, WYLL, and DND mean on TikTok?
• What do AMOS, ASMR, and 1437 mean on TikTok?
• What do LWK, blue, and ML mean on TikTok?
• What does NTM, ALR, and PTSO mean on TikTok?
• What do ate, BFFR, and rizz mean on TikTok?
• What do TP, IBR, and AF mean on TikTok?
• What do ASL, gyatt, and HMS mean on TikTok?
• What do ASMR and RCTA mean on TikTok?
• What do delulu, BMF, and IMO mean on TikTok?

TikTok slang explained:

From CEO to accountant and ASL on TikTok, here’s a detailed breakdown of all the slang you’re likely to come across in the app. While some of them may not make sense at first, we’ll be sure to explain exactly what they all mean for future reference.

What does POV mean on TikTok?

POV means ‘Point Of View,’ and refers to a trend in which the video shows the viewer’s perspective of a certain situation.

People use the POV TikTok format to make funny and relatable content, and while this trend often takes inspiration from regular daily life, some choose to make their version bizarrely specific or nonsensical.

What does FYP mean on TikTok?

FYP stands for the ‘For You Page,’ and refers to the tab you first see upon launching the app. As the name suggests, your FYP is tailored to you, and the clever algorithm on the app picks up on what you’re interested in, using that information to suggest more relevant content.

If you upload a video to TikTok and someone comments ‘FYP,’ it means that you managed to make it to their feed, and is a common way to inform people that their video is being seen by others.

What does PFP mean?

This one is not just used on TikTok, but on many other social media platforms including Twitter. It stands for ‘Profile Picture,’ and many will use it to refer to whatever someone has set as their icon on the app.

Trends like the Lana Cult and the Hamster Cult utilized PFPs to spread the trend further across the app, and help connect with other participants.

What does CEO mean?

CEO is a term that has of course pre-dated TikTok, meaning Chief Executive Officer, but thanks to social media the term has taken on new meaning. To be the CEO of something means that you are the best at the thing in question, and is generally meant as a compliment. However, it can also be used in a sarcastic way.

What does accountant mean on TikTok?

The term ‘accountant’ blew up after user Rocky Paterra uploaded a video in which he explained via a catchy song why he prefers to tell people he’s an accountant rather than explain he’s a “struggling actor.”

This sound was then used by people with various other hard-to-explain jobs, particularly for creators who make mature content. This audio becoming a massive trend on the platform and one people quote constantly.

What does ion mean?

‘Ion’ is often used as a contraction of ‘I don’t,’ however when used as the acronym ‘ION,’ it can also mean ‘In Other News.’

However, the former meaning is generally more common on social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok.

What does asl mean?

‘Asl’ is another slightly confusing term in the sense that it has several different meanings. The first is of course the acronym for ‘American Sign Language,’ and the second is another acronym that means ‘age, sex, location.’

However, many social media users are now using ‘asl’ as a contraction of the phrase, ‘as hell.’

What does mid mean?

‘Mid’ on TikTok is used as a way to describe something as unimpressive, mediocre, or of poor quality. The term was popularized on the app after a video of pro wrestler Maxwell Jacob Friedman went viral, with him saying: “It’s called the Midwest, because every single thing in it is mid.”

What does Pushin P mean?

Pushin P is a popular phrase in the Bay Area and Texas that was popularized by Atlanta rapper Gunna.

Gunna explained that the ‘P’ stands for ‘player,’ although it can also stand for ‘paper.’ The term essentially means to ‘keep it real.’

“Risking your life to feed your family is P,” he explained in a series of Tweets. “Putting your people in position is P. Jumping in a person’s beef or situation when you don’t know what’s going on? Not P.”

What does AS mean?

On TikTok, AS can refer to the TV programming block Adult Swim, which became part of a huge trend back in 2021. Users were going viral making their own trailers or ‘bumps’ inspired by the network, with the [as] logo featured in a subtle way somewhere in the shot.

What does SA mean on TikTok?

SA on TikTok often refers to ‘sexual assault,’ and the acronym is used as a way to prevent content potentially being flagged, and sometimes in order to remain sensitive about difficult topics.

What does NP mean on TikTok?

The most common usage of NP is ‘no problem,’ and is a term used not only on TikTok but other platforms as well, usually in conversations with others. You may see this pop up frequently in comment threads and replies.

What does RMP mean on TikTok?

While RMP can have several different meanings, it is sometimes used to refer to the website ‘Rate My Professor,’ which as the name suggests, allows students to rate their teachers online.

RMP can also mean ‘remind me please’ or ‘read my profile,’ but which meaning it is will entirely depend on the context.

What does the chair emoji mean on TikTok?

The chair emoji took on a new meaning in 2021 after TikTok user Anthony Mai decided to create a TikTok-wide inside joke by telling people to use the chair emoji in place of the laughing emoji.

The trend became a huge phenomenon, and successfully confused thousands as people regularly started using the chair emoji in comment sections across the whole app.

What does moots mean on TikTok?

‘Moots’ is an abbreviation of the word ‘mutuals’ and refers to a person that you follow that also follows you back. This term is very popular on TikTok, but is not exclusive to the platform, with the word also being hugely popular over on Twitter.

What does ‘W’ mean on TikTok?

When used alone, the letter ‘W’ often stands for the word ‘win’ or ‘winner.’ It is usually used to compliment something or someone, and can be a way to congratulate people on their life ‘wins.’

What does ‘L’ mean on TikTok?

The opposite to ‘W’, when used on its own, L usually stands for ‘lose’ or ‘loser.’ People often use it to comment on people’s fails, and can be seen in comments sections across not just TikTok, but YouTube, Twitter, and more.

What does /srs mean on TikTok?

When used after a forward slash, the term ‘/srs’ means ‘serious,’ and is one of the many tone indicators which are used widely across the internet. Tone indicators are generally used at the end of a message or comment to clarify the meaning or intent of the statement.

Other tone indicators include:

• /s — sarcasm
• /pos — positive
• /neg — negative
• /g — genuine
• /j — joke
• /lh — lighthearted
• /nm — not mad

What does storytime mean on TikTok?

A storytime refers to a style of video, often on TikTok or YouTube, in which the creator will recount a bizarre or interesting story from their life for viewers.

Particularly on TikTok, people will often request a storytime from a user if they want more context behind an interesting clip, or if they reference a bigger story as part of a trend. The phrase even became a comment meme in 2022, with people flooding every comment section they could with requests for storytimes, regardless of whether or not it was relevant.

What does crop mean on TikTok?

Asking someone to crop something on TikTok means that you want them to re-upload a video or image they have posted at a size where it is not obscured by the buttons surrounding the video. This allows people to screenshot or screen record the content so they can save it to their camera roll.

What does SMH mean on TikTok?

SMH usually stands for ‘shaking my head’ or ‘shake my head,’ and is usually used online as a reaction to express some form of disappointment. However, in some cases it may refer to ‘so much hate,’ ‘smack my head,’ or ‘somehow.’ You may see this acronym used both capitalized, and uncapitalized.

What does ‘fake body’ mean on TikTok?

The phrase ‘fake body’ on TikTok is usually used as a way for people to try to avoid being flagged for violating TikTok’s policy on nudity. Violating community guidelines could ultimately lead to your account being banned, so people use this tag in an attempt to trick the automatic moderation system.

Many creators use this phrase in either the description of the video, or the tags, but it’s not clear how effective it is.

What does IB mean on TikTok?

‘IB’ on TikTok usually stands for ‘Inspired By,’ and is just one way of crediting another creator for the idea behind a video you’re making. This can be anything from a makeup trend, to a recipe, or just about anything else.

It is sometimes used in place of ‘DC’ which stands for ‘dance credit,’ which is used specifically to credit people who choreograph viral TikTok dances.

What does unspoken rizz mean on TikTok?

The term ‘unspoken rizz’ refers to someone’s ability to attract people without speaking to them. Some have garnered hundreds of thousands, or even millions of views for their videos in which they test their ‘unspoken rizz.’

What does ‘Krissed’ mean on TikTok?

The term ‘Krissed’ refers to a meme that emerged on TikTok in 2022, inspired by Kris Jenner. Users would start the video with a shocking fake rumor, before ending the video with a clip of Kris dancing to ‘Lady Marmalade.’

This trend has become a major feature on the social media app and is still used by many to this day.

What does ISTG mean on TikTok?

‘ISTG’ usually stands for ‘I swear to god,’ and is often used to emphasize a point you are making. You will most likely see the acronym at the beginning or end of a sentence, for example: “ISTG I can’t take him anywhere,” meaning: “I swear to god I can’t take him anywhere.”

What does BBL mean on TikTok?

‘BBL’ stands for ‘Brazilian Butt Lift,’ which according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is: “A specialized fat transfer procedure that augments the size and shape of the buttocks without implants.”

Users often go viral sharing their BBL journey and results, or discussing celebrities who might have had the procedure.

What does pinned mean on TikTok?

When browsing someone’s profile on TikTok, you may have seen several videos at the top of their profile page labeled with the word ‘Pinned.‘ This means that the creator has chosen to literally pin these videos to their profile so that they are always at the top.

This is usually to draw people’s attention to certain posts, whether that’s to show off their most viral videos, or information that would be relevant to the users.

What does SW mean on TikTok?

‘SW’ is an acronym that on TikTok usually stands for ‘sex work’ or ‘sex worker,’ depending on the way it’s used in a sentence. People will often use this acronym to avoid being flagged by TikTok’s algorithm, which could result in their videos being taken down, or their account being banned.

What does /hj mean on TikTok?

The term ‘/hj’ is another tone indicator that stands for ‘half-joking.’ It is usually used to indicate that while a statement is largely a joke, there is an element of truth or seriousness to it. You will often see tone indicators at the end of comments, and they are used to clarify the intent behind a sentence.

What does GRWM mean on TikTok?

GRWM stands for ‘Get Ready With Me,’ and refers to a type of video popular across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and more, in which users will show their followers how they get ready in the morning, or in the evening before bed. This type of video is particularly popular in the fashion and beauty communities.

What does IMSG mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, IMSG often stands for ‘iMessage,’ and may be used on TikTok when people are asking to chat via the Apple instant messaging app. It can also stand for ‘iMessage Games,’ referring to the type of games you can play with your friends through instant messaging platforms.

What does slay mean on TikTok?

‘Slay’ is usually used as a way to compliment someone, and according to Dictionary.com, means “to do something spectacularly well, especially when it comes to fashion, artistic performance, or self-confidence.” It is also a word that has been used in a number of viral TikTok sounds.

What does PSA mean on TikTok?

PSA usually stands for ‘Public Service Announcement,’ and on social media, including TikTok, the term is used as a way for people raise awareness about a topic or share some information with their followers. It can be used in the context of a joke, as well as in a serious way.

What does WYLL mean on TikTok?

On social media, WYLL often stands for ‘What You Look Like.’ The acronym is used as a way of people asking someone they have been chatting to what they look like in real life. You might see this used on TikTok, as well as on other platforms like Snapchat and Instagram.

What does DND mean on TikTok?

DND has multiple possible meanings on TikTok. It could stand for ‘Do Not Disturb,’ which people may use in direct messages, or to talk about the iPhone feature of the same name. It can also stand for roleplaying game Dungeons and Dragons, which has a huge community on the app.

What does AMOS mean on TikTok?

AMOS usually stands for ‘Add Me On Snapchat.’ You may see people use this in their bios on TikTok next to their Snapchat username in order to get people to add them, but people also use it in Direct Messages.

What does ASMR mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, and more, ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, referring to a tingling sensation some feel on the scalp, neck, and other areas of the body in response to certain audio and visual stimuli. ASMR content is hugely popular on TikTok, Twitch, and YouTube, and garners millions of views and likes.

What does 1437 mean on TikTok?

1437 is another way of saying ‘I love you forever.’ Each number in the acronym corresponds to how many letters there are in each word: ‘I’ is one letter, ‘love’ is four letters, ‘you’ has three letters, and ‘forever’ has seven letters. You will see this in both videos and comment sections on the platform.

What does LWK mean on TikTok?

LWK is an acronym for ‘Low Key.’ This term is typically used to subtly indicate agreement or to express a mild, understated, or subdued feeling or opinion about something. It’s derived from the slang term “low key,” which has been widely used informally to describe something that is intentionally kept quiet or not emphasized.

What does blud mean on TikTok?

Blud is a Jamaican slang term used to address men, and it essentially means “bro.” It appears to have derived from the term “blood brothers,” and it’s often used as an informal greeting among friends.

On TikTok, the slang can be found in meme videos and comment sections, as it’s used in the same way as words like “bro” and “fam.” It could also pop up in your DMs, if someone is greeting you informally or referring to another person.

What does ML mean on TikTok?

ML can have a few different meanings on social media. One of the most common usages is as an abbreviation of ‘My Love.’ This is used as a term of endearment, though does not necessarily have to be romantic, and you will usually see this used in direct messages. Another possible meaning is ‘Much Love,’ which is just used as a way of sending your love and appreciation to someone.

Other users have also reported using ML to mean ‘Mega Lose’ or ‘Massive Lose,’ so the meaning of the acronyms will change depending on the context.

What does NTM mean on TikTok?

The term NTM has multiple possible meanings, but it often stands for ‘Not Too Much.‘ However, there are a number of different things that NTM could stand for, including ‘Nothing Much,’ which may be used in response to a message asking what you’re up to.

It could also stand for ‘Not To Mention,’ which someone may use at the start of a sentence when they’re explaining something and want to add something on to their comment.

There are also instances in which it stands for ‘Next To Me,’ but you probably won’t see this as often as the other meanings.

What does ALR mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, ALR tends to mean ‘Alright,’ and it is commonly used across the short-form video app. It has the same meaning in the Urban Dictionary. However, elsewhere on the internet and in texting, ALR has generally stood for ‘A Little Respect.’ Many have also used it as a short abbreviation for ‘Already.’

What does PTSO mean on TikTok?

PTSO could have several potential meanings, but on TikTok, one of the most common definitions is ‘Put That Sh*t On.’ According to Urban Dictionary, if a person tells you that you “put that sh*t on,” they think you’re dressed nice and stylish. The phrase is used to compliment and hype up someone’s outfit.

Another meaning that PTSO can have is ‘Pictures To Show Off.’ However, this is more common to see on Instagram and other photo-sharing apps.

The acronym can also stand for ‘Parent Teacher Student Organization,’ but you’re less likely to see this definition used on social media platforms like TikTok.

What does ‘ate’ mean on TikTok?

First thing first, the word ‘ate’ on TikTok has nothing to do with eating. The slang term ‘ate’ on the social media app has the same meaning found in Urban Dictionary. The common term is used to describe someone doing a great job at something. 

There are different variations of the term that include “ate” which the outlet notes as a common New York City slang term that means the same thing.

According to the Urban Dictionary, if someone “did a great job; pulled it off well; had a lot of success with something,” they “ate that.”

Occasionally, users will say that someone “ate and left no crumbs,” meaning they did remarkably well on something.

What does BFFR mean on TikTok?

According to Know Your Meme, BFFR comes from African American Vernacular English, like many popular acronyms on social media.

“The term has been used in AAVE for several years but was popularized on TikTok and Twitter due to a remix of a soundbite from rapper Slump6s in mid-2022,” the outlet shares.

Urban Dictionary explains that BFFR stands for Be F**king For Real. Commonly used by people in the middle of a conversation, this slang term is used to ask the other person to get real about a specific topic.

Telling someone to “BFFR” is appropriate when they are being naive, stupid, or denying a fact that has been around for a long time.

What does ‘rizz’ mean on TikTok?

TikTokers looking to add ‘rizz’ to their interactions may be looking for romance, as the term refers to impressing a desirable other.

Essentially, it is about having the game, typically for men attracting women, but it could be used for any sex attracting anyone.

Made popular by Twitch streamer and YouTube content creator Kai Cenat, ‘rizz’ has often been used by the creator to describe his skills to impress women.

What does TP mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, TP usually stands for ‘Think Positive.’ The New York slang is often used in motivational or inspirational content to encourage people to maintain a positive mindset. It’s used as a reminder to focus on the brighter side of life, especially during challenging times.

The term has found its place in the form of inspirational talks or uplifting messages in videos. For example, a TikToker might share a post discussing a recent breakup or failure, concluding with “TP” to highlight their commitment to maintaining a positive outlook despite the setback.

There are other definitions of TP, including ‘Toilet Paper’ and ‘Title Page.’ The context in which the term is used often determines its meaning, so it’s important to look for context clues when interpreting TP.

What does IBR mean on TikTok?

IBR usually stands for ‘I’ll Be Real.’ Users commonly use it to preface a statement where they are about to share their honest opinion or feelings about a subject or situation.

It is an abbreviation used to express authenticity about something. So, if a TikToker shares a video about a popular but controversial topic, like a new fashion trend, a user may comment, “IBR, I think this trend is overhyped,” indicating their genuine opinion about the issue.

What does AF mean on TikTok?

AF is an acronym that stands for the phrase ‘As F**k.’ It is usually used after a word to emphasize it in a humorous way, e.g. “funny AF,” and you will see it both capitalized and non-capitalized. Both ways of writing it have the same meaning, but could affect the tone depending on the context.

You may also see the acronym ‘ASF’ which often has the same meaning and can be used interchangeably.

What does ASL mean on TikTok?

Many will know ASL as primarily meaning American Sign Language, and there is a wealth of content on the app relating to it, including lessons, tutorials, and song covers. Usually, in this context, it will be written in all caps.

The latest definition that has confused a large number of social media users, is ‘as hell.’ When used in this context, it will usually be written in lowercase.

Another popular meaning of the word is ‘age, sex, location,’ though this abbreviation could be considered outdated to some.

What does gyatt mean on TikTok?

According to Urban Dictionary, ‘gyatt,’ or ‘gyat’ is a shortened term for “goddamn” that guys use when they see a girl they find attractive. Usually, the girl has a curvy figure.

The phrase was first used by YouTuber and Twitch streamer YourRAGE, who would say the term whenever he saw someone curvy pop up during his streams.

Since he introduced the word in 2022, it’s been used frequently on TikTok, often in comment sections and direct messages. It’s also a popular slang term on Twitch.

The viral slang isn’t a recent phenomenon, and has been around since 2021 at the very least. At the time of writing, the hashtag for “gyatt” has amassed a whopping 485.1 million views on the short-form app.

What does HMS mean on TikTok?

On social media, HMS usually stands for ‘Hang Myself,’ referencing self-harm. It’s similar to the popular acronym KMS, which stands for ‘Kill Myself.’

The term is frequently used as a joke by those who use dark humor as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and mental health issues.

When a person on TikTok says “I’m gonna HMS,” they are often venting their frustration, expressing their boredom with a situation, or being over-the-top about an unlucky incident.

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm, reach out to a professional who can help by texting Hello to 741471 to speak to the Crisis Text Line in the US.

What does ASMR mean on TikTok?

ASMR stands for ‘Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response’ and it refers to a tingling sensation on the scalp, neck, and other areas of the body that some people get when listening to certain audio stimuli.

Sounds that trigger ASMR can include many things such as whispering, tapping, and certain types of music. There are also visual ASMR stimuli which include things like watching repetitive or satisfying actions.

ASMR has become its own genre of content online, with creators on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and now TikTok making their own ASMR videos in different styles, often sitting in front of a microphone and responding to viewer requests.

Many ASMR videos on TikTok go on to garner millions of views and likes, and the hashtag has over 679 billion views, which just goes to show how popular it is on the app.

What does RCTA mean on TikTok?

RCTA stands for ‘Race Change To Another.‘ It is another term for “transracial,” which refers to the concept that a person can transition to another race. There’s another alternative to the term called ECTA, meaning ‘Ethnicity Change To Another.’

One of the most infamous examples of transracial people is Oli London, a British influencer who at some point claimed to be Korean and was undergoing plastic surgery to look like BTS singer Jimin.

Members of the RCTA community don’t necessarily want to change their appearance to look like another race, but they believe they can manifest the identity using ‘subliminals.’ Many of them are focused on transitioning into East-Asian ethnicities due to their love for K-pop, K-dramas, and anime culture among other things.

What does delulu mean on TikTok?

On social media apps like TikTok, delulu is a shorthand for ‘delusional,’ and it’s used to describe someone who holds onto a belief, idea, or fantasy that seems irrational or disconnected from reality.

According to Urban Dictionary, a delulu is “a delusional fan girl/boy who believes they can/will end up with their favorite idol or celebrity and invest an unhealthy amount of time and energy into said idol.”

It’s often used in the K-pop world, usually in a lighthearted manner. For example, if a user uploads a photo of BTS‘ Jimin and captions it “boyfriend reveal,” commenters may flood in, calling them “delulu.”

Fans who are overly optimistic or unrealistic about a celebrity’s personal life or career may also be labeled this by other fans who find their viewpoints unreasonable.

What does BMF mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, BMF usually stands for ‘Bad Motherf**ker.’ The phrase is often used as a badge of respect or admiration, and it’s had cultural relevance for decades thanks in part to Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 crime film ‘Pulp Fiction.’

If someone calls you a BMF, they are complimenting your style, personality, attitude, or something else they like about you. The term’s application is versatile, but it often conveys a sense of confidence, swagger, or sheer awe at someone’s audacity or skills.

What does IMO mean on TikTok?

On social media platforms like TikTok, IMO stands for ‘In My Opinion.’ It’s a way for users to preface a statement or thought where they’re expressing a personal viewpoint or belief.

There are many ways and contexts in which this term can be used. For example, someone might send a photo of an outfit they’re considering wearing to an event and caption it with, “IMO, this is the best choice for tonight’s party. What do you think?”

Or, while chatting about the latest music or movie releases, a user might say, “That’s the best album of the year, IMO.” The acronym can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a statement, making it a flexible addition to any message or caption.

So there you have it – all of TikTok’s slang explained, from ‘mid’ to POV and FYP.

TikTok culture is constantly growing and changing, and there’ll be new slang and terminology that will rise in popularity as more users join the popular app. When new terms pop up, we’ll, be sure to keep this article updated so you’re in the know.

If you want to learn more about how to use TikTok, you can check out our other guides here:

How to duet on TikTok | How to Stitch on TikTok | How to go live on TikTok | How to find contacts on TikTok | How to use TikTok Stories | Best time to post on TikTok for more views and likes