Reddit, often referred to as ‘the front page of the internet,’ boasts a unique ecosystem with its own set of slang and insider jargon.
For newcomers and even some regulars, these abbreviations can be bamboozling. Well, thankfully some of us on the team are passionate Redditors who’ve spent countless hours (more than we’d like to admit) lurking in the virtual corners of this platform, we’ve come together to compile a comprehensive list that decodes some of the most prevalent Reddit slang.
Click above to generate some slangs
Common Reddit Slang
1. OP
Original Poster: This refers to the person who started a discussion or made the initial post. For instance, if someone shares a story on Reddit, they are the OP of that thread. The term identifies the original post among the follow-up comments.
2. TIL
Today I Learned: Users share fascinating facts or information they just learned. For instance, “TIL that honey never spoils.” It’s a way to share newfound knowledge with the community.
3. AMA
Ask Me Anything: A platform for users to answer questions about a specific topic or experience. For example, “I’m an astronaut. AMA!” It’s a chance for Redditors to interact with experts or interesting individuals.
4. AITA
Am I the Asshole?: Users share personal stories and ask the community to judge their actions. For instance, “AITA for not attending my sister’s wedding?” Feedback typically comes in the form of judgements like NTA.
5. NTA
Not the Asshole: A verdict given in response to AITA posts. For example, in response to an AITA thread, someone might say, “NTA, your choice was justified.” It’s a way to provide judgment or perspective.
6. TL;DR
Too Long; Didn’t Read: A short summary provided for long posts or comments. For instance, “TL;DR: I saved a cat from a tree and then found its owner.” It offers a quick overview for those in a hurry.
7. NSFW
Not Safe For Work: Labels content that might be inappropriate for workplace viewing, often due to explicit material. For instance, a graphic image might be marked “NSFW”. It’s a heads-up for users to exercise discretion.
8. NSFL
Not Safe For Life: Warns users of extremely graphic or disturbing content. For instance, a post about a gruesome accident might be tagged “NSFL”. It’s a sterner warning than NSFW.
9. ELI5
Explain Like I’m 5: Users request simple and clear explanations for complex topics. For instance, “ELI5: Quantum Physics.” It’s a call for understandable insights.
10. OC
Original Content: Content created and shared by the user. For instance, “Here’s a painting I made, OC!” It distinguishes firsthand creations from shared or reposted material.
11. LPT
Life Pro Tip: Users share handy tips or tricks that can make life easier. For example, “LPT: Use a hair straightener to iron collars.” It’s about sharing life hacks with the community.
12. TIFU
Today I Fucked Up: Users share personal blunders or mistakes made recently. For instance, “TIFU by forgetting my wife’s birthday.” It’s a space for humorous or heartfelt confessions.
13. ITT
In This Thread: Refers to content or discussions happening in the current post and its comments. For instance, “ITT: People sharing their childhood memories.” It gives a snapshot of ongoing discussions.
14. UPVOTE
To like or agree: It’s a way to show appreciation or agreement with a post or comment. For example, “If you find this helpful, upvote!” This increases the visibility and rank of content.
15. DOWNVOTE
To dislike or disagree: Used when users believe content is irrelevant or disagreeable. For example, “Downvote trolls and irrelevant content.” Content with many downvotes can get buried.
16. KARMA
Reddit’s Point System: It’s the score a user receives from upvotes and downvotes. For instance, “I earned 100 karma today!” It’s a measure of a user’s contribution and reputation.
17. CAKEDAY
Reddit User Anniversary: The date a user joined Reddit. For example, “Happy Cakeday to me! I’ve been here for 3 years.” It’s celebrated with a little cake icon next to the username.
18. BOT
Automated Account: Accounts programmed to perform tasks on Reddit. For instance, “That’s a reminder bot, it automatically sends reminders.” They streamline specific repetitive actions.
19. SHITPOST
Low-Quality Post: Refers to content deemed as lacking value or relevance. For example, “Ignore the troll, it’s just a shitpost.” Often used to describe trolling or nonsensical content.
20. REPOST
Previously Posted Content: Content that’s been shared before on the platform. For instance, “This is a repost from last week.” It’s often frowned upon if not credited.
21. MOD
Moderator: Individuals who oversee and manage subreddit communities. For example, “The mod removed inappropriate comments.” They maintain the order and rules of subreddits.
22. FLAIR
Post or User Tag: Labels indicating the nature or category of a post or user. For instance, in r/science, you might see a “Physics” flair. Helps in categorizing and searching content.
23. GOLD
Reddit Premium Gift: A premium subscription gifted to users for valuable contributions. For example, “Thank you for the Gold, kind stranger!” It comes with perks like an ad-free experience.
24. SILVER, PLATINUM
Reddit Awards: Tokens of appreciation given to users for great content or comments. For instance, “Your comment deserves Platinum!” They’re one step above upvotes in showing appreciation.
25. META
Self-Referential: Discusses Reddit itself or the specific subreddit. For example, “This post is so meta, discussing r/funny’s trends.” It’s a discussion about the platform’s or subreddit’s dynamics.
26. PM/DM
Private/Direct Message: A private communication between Reddit users. For instance, “Send me a DM if interested.” It’s a way to converse privately outside of public threads.
27. LURKER
Silent Observer: A user who reads content but doesn’t actively post or comment. For example, “I’ve been a lurker for years, but this made me comment.” They’re the silent majority on most platforms.
28. r/
Subreddit Prefix: Used to indicate or link to a specific subreddit. For instance, “Check out r/AskReddit for interesting questions.” It’s a shorthand for navigating Reddit.
29. u/
User Prefix: Denotes a specific Reddit user. For example, “Shoutout to u/username for the info!” It’s a quick way to mention or link to a user’s profile.
30. X-POST
Cross-Post: Sharing a post from one subreddit to another. For instance, “X-Post from r/photography.” It’s a way to share content across multiple communities.
31. OOTL
Out Of The Loop: Admitting unawareness about a current trend or topic. For example, “OOTL: Why is everyone talking about this meme?” It’s a request for explanations on recent happenings.
32. IANAL
I Am Not A Lawyer: A disclaimer used when giving legal advice. For instance, “IANAL, but you might want to consult an attorney.” It’s a way to offer perspective without claiming expertise.
33. DAE
Does Anyone Else: An appeal to shared feelings or experiences. For example, “DAE hate the sound of chalk on a board?” It’s a call for communal sentiments.
34. HODL
Hold On for Dear Life: A slang in cryptocurrency circles, encouraging not to sell off assets. For instance, “Despite the price drop, HODL your bitcoins!” It has become a rallying cry during market lows.
35. YMMV
Your Mileage May Vary: Indicates experiences/results might differ for others. For example, “This skincare worked for me, but YMMV.” It’s a way to give subjective advice.
36. IRL
In Real Life: Refers to real-world events as opposed to online ones. For instance, “I met a fellow Redditor IRL today!” It distinguishes between digital and offline experiences.
37. FML
Fuck My Life: An expression of dismay or frustration about personal events. For example, “Missed the bus again, FML.” It’s an exclamation of misfortune.
38. FOMO
Fear Of Missing Out: Anxiety over missing out on exciting events or trends. For instance, “Got FOMO and bought the concert tickets.” It reflects a desire to stay updated and involved.
39. DM
Direct Message: Another term for private communication between Reddit users. For example, “DM me the details.” It’s synonymous with PM.
40. SMH
Shaking My Head: Expressing disbelief or disappointment. For example, “She forgot her own birthday, smh.” It’s a non-verbal gesture of disapproval.
41. BRB
Be Right Back: Indicates a short absence. For instance, “BRB, grabbing a coffee.” It’s a quick way to signal a brief departure.
42. GTFO
Get The Fuck Out: A strong expression telling someone to leave or expressing disbelief. For example, “That’s your opinion? GTFO!” It’s a more aggressive dismissal.
43. AFK
Away From Keyboard: Signals that a user is not currently active. For example, “AFK for a meeting.” It’s common in online gaming and chat environments.
44. DIY
Do It Yourself: Activities or tasks done without professional assistance. For instance, “Made a DIY bookshelf!” It celebrates
self-made projects and accomplishments.
45. IMO/IMHO
In My Opinion/In My Humble Opinion: Used to clarify that a statement is subjective. For example, “IMHO, that’s the best movie this year.” It’s a way to provide personal insights without sounding assertive.
46. PSA
Public Service Announcement: Alerts or updates provided to the community. For instance, “PSA: New rules for the subreddit.” It’s a way to convey important information or reminders.
47. QOL
Quality Of Life: Refers to enhancements or features that improve user experience. For example, “This software update has some great QOL changes.” It emphasizes comfort and ease.
48. FTFY
Fixed That For You: A playful or corrective response to someone’s comment. For instance, in response to a typo, “You meant ‘definitely’. FTFY.” It’s a humorous way to correct or mock.
49. RIP
Rest In Peace: Expressing condolences or marking an end. For example, “My old laptop finally stopped working. RIP.” It acknowledges loss or an ending.
50. TYT
Take Your Time: Encouraging patience or signaling no rush. For example, “I’ll wait here, TYT.” It’s a polite gesture of understanding.
51. OP’s MOM
Original Poster’s Mother: Often used humorously or derogatorily, referring to the original poster’s mother. For example, “That sounds like something OP’s mom would do.” It’s an internet meme and can be either a joke or an insult.
52. SO
Significant Other: Referring to one’s partner or romantic interest. For example, “My SO and I went on a trip.” It’s a neutral way to mention one’s partner without specifying gender or marital status.
53. RICKROLL
Deceptive Linking to Rick Astley’s Song: A bait-and-switch prank where someone is unexpectedly led to the music video for “Never Gonna Give You Up”. For example, “I clicked the link and got rickrolled!” It’s a popular internet meme and joke.
54. BAMBOOZLE
Deception or Trickery: Often used in the context of promising to deliver on something and then not following through. For example, “I hope I don’t get bamboozled with this deal.” It’s internet slang for being fooled.
55. FACEPALM
Gesture of Frustration: Mimicking slapping one’s own face in disbelief or annoyance. For instance, reading a silly comment and responding with “Facepalm.” It’s a visual representation of disbelief or exasperation.
56. WHOLESOME
Heartwarming and Positive: Describes content that uplifts spirits or showcases kindness. For example, “That story was so wholesome.” It’s often used to highlight feel-good moments.
57. REDDIT HUG OF DEATH
Overwhelming Web Traffic: When a site crashes due to a sudden influx of visitors from Reddit. For instance, “The artist’s website got the Reddit hug of death after her work went viral.” It’s an unintentional side effect of Reddit’s vast audience.
58. MRW
My Reaction When: Precedes an image or description of someone’s reaction to a situation. For example, “MRW I found out I won the lottery.” It’s a meme format to share emotions visually.
59. MFW
My Face When: Similar to MRW but focuses on facial expressions. For instance, “MFW my dog ate my homework.” It’s used to convey reactions humorously, often with images.
60. ROFL
Rolling On the Floor Laughing: An extreme expression of laughter. For example, “That joke had me ROFL.” It’s a step up from LOL (Laugh Out Loud).
61. SFW
Safe For Work: Content that’s appropriate for all audiences, including workplace viewing. For instance, “Here’s a SFW version of the image.” It’s the opposite of NSFW.
62. CRINGE
Secondhand Embarrassment: Feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed by someone else’s actions. For example, “The interview was so cringe.” It’s used to describe awkward or embarrassing situations.
63. TBH
To Be Honest: Precedes a statement of candid truth or opinion. For example, “TBH, I don’t like that restaurant.” It’s a way to offer blunt or genuine insights.
64. STONKS
Meme version of Stocks: Often used humorously to refer to stock market investments or gains. For instance, “My shares went up. STONKS!” It became popular from a meme image.
65. BETA
Test Version: Refers to the trial version of software or products. For example, “The game is still in beta, expect bugs.” It signifies ongoing development and refinement.
66. CMV
Change My View: A challenge to convince the poster to change their opinion. For instance, “I think cats are better than dogs, CMV.” It’s a subreddit and a format for debate and persuasion.
67. FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions: Common questions and their answers, often pinned or highlighted. For example, “Before posting, check the FAQ.” It’s a way to address common inquiries efficiently.
68. INB4
In Before: Anticipating or predicting a forthcoming comment or event. For instance, “INB4 someone mentions the typo.” It’s a playful way to forecast predictable reactions.
69. POG/POGGERS
Expressions of Excitement or Amazement: Originating from Twitch, it’s a term to signify excitement or approval. For example, “You completed the challenge? Pog!” It has become popular among online gaming communities.
70. WIP
Work In Progress: Something that’s not yet finished or is under development. For instance, “Here’s my art piece, still a WIP.” It’s a way to showcase ongoing projects or tasks.
71. WTB/WTS/WTT
Want To Buy/Want To Sell/Want To Trade: Common in buy/sell/trade communities. For example, “WTB: Vintage camera lens.” They quickly convey intentions in marketplaces.
72. POV
Point Of View: Refers to a perspective or stance on a topic or issue. For instance, someone might say, “From a vegetarian’s POV, that’s not a suitable meal.” It helps in indicating the lens through which an opinion or argument is being made.
73. FWIW
For What It’s Worth: This is a way of prefacing a statement or opinion that might not be the main point of the conversation but is still offered for consideration. E.g., “FWIW, I think the older version was better.” It’s a humble way to share a thought.
74. NBD
No Big Deal: Used when something isn’t of significant importance or isn’t a concern. When someone apologizes for a minor mistake, a reply could be, “It’s NBD.” It’s a way to brush things off lightly.
75. DAE
Does Anyone Else: This is usually used to see if others share a specific sentiment or experience. E.g., “DAE feel like this movie was overrated?” It seeks validation from the community on common feelings or thoughts.
76. TBA
To Be Announced: Indicates that specific information will be provided at a later time. For example, “The concert’s opening act is TBA.” It’s a placeholder for pending details.
77. TOS
Terms of Service: This refers to the rules and regulations users must agree to follow when using a particular service, website, or product. For instance, before joining a platform, you might need to agree to its TOS. It defines user rights and limitations.
78. BUMP
Bring Up My Post: This is a method used on forums (including Reddit) to move a post to the top of the page or to get more visibility. If a post isn’t receiving attention, someone might comment “BUMP” to push it higher. It’s a strategy to keep topics active or visible.
79. RNG
Random Number Generator: In the context of gaming or digital processes, this refers to an algorithm that produces random numbers. For example, when getting loot in video games, a player might say, “I hope the RNG is in my favor today.” It adds unpredictability to digital outcomes.
80. NGL
Not Gonna Lie: Used to preface a statement where the user is being upfront or honest, usually about an opinion. For example, “NGL, I never liked that TV show.” It’s a straightforward way to share feelings.
81. Q&A
Questions and Answers: Often seen in sessions where individuals or organizations open the floor for inquiries and provide direct responses. E.g., “We’ll have a Q&A at the end of the presentation.” It promotes open dialogue and clarity.
82. JK
Just Kidding: A quick way to clarify that a previous statement was not meant to be taken seriously or was said in jest. For example, after a playful tease, one might add, “JK!” It ensures comments aren’t misunderstood.
83. IDC
I Don’t Care: A statement of indifference or lack of interest in a particular topic. For instance, “IDC about the final score, I’m just here for the fun.” It’s a way to express detachment.
84. ICYMI
In Case You Missed It: A method of reintroducing news, updates, or information that was shared earlier. E.g., “ICYMI, the team won last night’s match!” It helps keep everyone in the loop.
85. TBD
To Be Determined: Used when specific details are still undecided or unknown. For example, “The date of the next meeting is TBD.” It indicates pending decisions or details.
86. FIFY
Fixed It For You: This is used when making corrections or adjustments to someone else’s statement or post. For instance, if someone makes a typo or factual error, a helpful Redditor might correct it and add, “FIFY.” It’s a way to help refine content.
87. Power User
A user known for their frequent and quality contributions: On platforms like Reddit, a power user often has significant influence due to their consistent and valuable input. E.g., “That’s u/username, they’re a power user in this community.” Their voice carries weight.
88. Circlejerk
A group of people with similar beliefs that self-validate each other: On Reddit, this can also reference /r/circlejerk, a parody subreddit highlighting echo chambers. Circlejerking can suppress different opinions, leading to a lack of diverse discussion. E.g., “This thread is turning into a circlejerk.” It’s a caution against one-sided conversations.