“67” Named Dictionary.com’s 2025 Word of the Year: The Rise of Absurd Slang

Dictionary.com has officially crowned “67,” pronounced “six-seven,” as its 2025 Word of the Year. This slang term, which has captured the attention of a new generation, is a prime example of how language evolves through digital culture. Let’s explore the meaning, origin, and impact of this playful and nebulous phrase.

What Does “67” Mean?

The term “67” has emerged as a viral expression among kids and teens, though its meaning is intentionally obscure. Dictionary.com suggests that it can be loosely interpreted to mean “so-so” or simply serve as an ambiguous response—“maybe this, maybe that.” The phrase is classified as part of the “classic brainrot slang,” which is intentionally nonsensical and revels in absurdity.

In essence, the enjoyment of using “67” lies in its absurdity and the shared humor it generates. Teachers and parents often hear the phrase in classrooms and casual conversations, linking it to a broader cultural phenomenon that connects young people through digital media, memes, and trends.

How Did “67” Go Viral?

The phrase “67” can be traced back to Skrilla’s 2024 song “Doot Doot (6 7),” which features a catchy hook that quickly gained traction among listeners. The song’s infectious beat inspired numerous TikTok creators to create content that often highlighted NBA player LaMelo Ball, who coincidentally stands at 6 feet, 7 inches tall. Ball himself joined in on the fun, noting in an interview that kids frequently shout “six-seven” at him, dubbing it his “new nickname.”

The trend skyrocketed with a viral video from social media creator Cam Wilder, where a boy at a basketball game enthusiastically chants “six-seven” into the camera. This charming clip led to the boy being dubbed “The 67 Kid,” solidifying the phrase’s place in internet lore. As content creators embraced the phrase, it became synonymous with the spontaneity and quirky humor characteristic of Gen Alpha.

From dance studios to restaurants, “67” was soon adopted in various contexts, demonstrating the meme’s shape-shifting nature. Whether instructors counted out to “six-seven” or patrons celebrated when order number 67 was called, the term took on a life of its own, further reinforcing its cultural significance.

Who Started the “67” Meme?

The genesis of the “67” phenomenon is a collaborative effort shaped by various elements of online culture. While Skrilla’s music initiated the trend, basketball fandom and TikTok creativity fueled its growth. Influencers like Taylen “TK” Kinney enhanced the phrase’s cadence and flair, often rating things as “six, seven” in their clips.

As the meme evolved, it morphed into a versatile expression encompassing confidence, rhythm, and light-hearted nonsense. Its adaptability was further highlighted in unexpected contexts, such as eerie edits labeled “SCP-067,” showcasing the meme’s range from humorous to unsettling.

What Does Dictionary.com Say About Its Impact?

In its announcement, Dictionary.com referred to “67” as a “linguistic time capsule” that encapsulates the rapid changes in social trends and communication methods. The term saw a remarkable increase in usage, appearing in online media six times more frequently in October 2025 compared to all of 2024. This accentuates how swiftly a meme can evolve into a legitimate part of mainstream vernacular.

Steve Johnson, Ph.D., director of lexicography for the Dictionary Media Group, elaborated on its appeal:

“It’s part inside joke, part social signal, and part performance. When people say it, they’re not just repeating a meme; they’re shouting a feeling.”

Johnson emphasized that “67” stands out as one of the first Words of the Year functioning as an interjection, a burst of energy that fosters connection among individuals before anyone truly agrees on its meaning.

Why Was “67” Chosen as Word of the Year?

Dictionary.com asserts that “67” embodies the essence of modern internet slang—fast-paced, fluid, and shaped by community interaction. It reflects how Generation Alpha and Generation Z are transforming language through social media, blurring the lines between humor and self-expression.

The term allows a new generation to express themselves through an ever-evolving lexicon, making it poignant in showcasing how quickly new words can capture a global audience. Other contenders like “agnetic,” “overtourism,” and “tradwife” simply could not match the energetic cultural footprint of “67.”

What Makes “67” Different from Past Words of the Year?

Unlike previous Words of the Year often rooted in political discourse or significant global events, “67” exemplifies a vibe-driven expression—a joyful, interjecting catchphrase rather than a declarative statement. Its lack of a strict definition highlights its intent to connect people through shared humor rather than to communicate a specific idea.

In an age of fleeting trends, “67” serves as a reminder of how language can evolve at unprecedented speeds, propelled by the rapid-fire culture of memes, music, and digital interactions among today’s youth.