If you’ve overheard your teenager or tween casually dropping phrases about “aura” or “aura points,” you might be scratching your head in confusion. Trying to decipher teen slang can feel like learning a new language, and asking “What Is Aura Slang?” might even risk you losing some cool points in their eyes.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang. If you’re curious about what “aura” really means, where this slang term comes from, and how it’s being used across social media platforms, keep reading to get the lowdown on this trending term.
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What Exactly is “Aura” in Teen Slang?
When it comes to “aura slang,” it’s often described as something you instinctively understand when you see it. However, for those of us not constantly immersed in teen internet culture, a clearer explanation is definitely needed. So, if you’re feeling out of the loop with this Gen Z and Gen Alpha je ne sais quoi, we’re here to break it down for you.
While “aura” is indeed a real word in the dictionary, referring to the atmosphere, energy, or vibe that a person or place exudes, teenagers have, as they often do, taken this word and given it their own unique, social media-fueled twist.
In teen slang, “aura” essentially describes someone’s “cool factor” or their “it” quality. Think of it as the Gen Alpha and Gen Z version of swagger, charisma, or effortless coolness. To say someone “has aura” is to say they possess an undeniable presence that commands attention when they enter a room. It’s that intangible quality that makes someone seem effortlessly cool and captivating.
Conversely, someone described as lacking “aura” might be seen as insecure, awkward, or simply “uncool” in the eyes of Gen Z and Gen Alpha. It’s a spectrum of social perception, where “aura” sits at the peak of coolness.
Decoding “Aura Points”: Gamifying Social Coolness
The digitally native generations, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have taken the concept of “aura” a step further by creating a playful system of “aura points.” This system is a way to quantify and comment on social actions, assigning hypothetical “cool points” in real-time.
This “aura points” system playfully mirrors the experience points (XP) found in video games. Just as actions in games earn or deduct points, everyday actions in the teen social sphere can be judged in terms of “aura points.” For example, a minor social mishap like spilling a drink might result in losing “-100 aura points,” while a social win, like acing a presentation or landing a date, could earn you “+100 aura points.”
It’s important to understand that “aura points” are not meant to be taken literally. There’s no running tally, no ultimate score to achieve. The numbers attached to “aura points” are purely for comedic or dramatic effect, used as a lighthearted way to compliment or poke fun at someone’s actions. Gaining +100 aura points isn’t mathematically superior to gaining +25; it’s simply a more emphatic expression of social approval or admiration in that specific context. The humor and relatability of the “aura points” system lie in its exaggerated and often ironic application to everyday situations.
The Social Media Roots of “Aura” and “Aura Points”
The term “aura” in this slang context doesn’t have a singular, traceable origin point, but its development is deeply intertwined with social media and online culture.
It appears the term initially gained traction within sports culture, particularly basketball fandom online. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), sports enthusiasts have long used “aura” to describe the captivating presence and impact of their favorite players, both on and off the court. A player with “aura” is one who makes impactful plays, energizes the crowd, and possesses an undeniable star quality. Conversely, a player lacking “aura” might be seen as unremarkable or failing to capture the excitement of fans.
The concept of “aura points” seems to be a playful adaptation of this broader “aura” concept, evolving and spreading across social media platforms, most notably TikTok, through viral trends and memes. This adaptation took the idea of intangible “aura” and made it more interactive and quantifiable, fitting perfectly with the meme-driven and trend-focused nature of platforms like TikTok. From sports commentary to everyday social interactions, “aura” and “aura points” have become versatile slang terms for Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
“Aura” Takes Over Social Media: Viral Trends to Know
Social media, and TikTok in particular, has become a breeding ground for viral trends rooted in slang over the past few years. If your teen or tween is active on social media, understanding these “aura” trends can provide valuable insight into their online world and the language they’re using.
“How Many Aura Points Did I Lose?” Trend
One of the most prevalent trends is the question: “How many aura points did I lose?” This phrase has launched countless TikTok videos and social media posts where users recount moments of embarrassment, rejection, or general “uncoolness” – essentially situations that would hypothetically deduct “aura points.”
For instance, in a popular TikTok video, a user shared a clip of someone struggling to remove a Yeezy slide stuck around their ankle at the beach. The video humorously asks, “How many aura points did my brother lose when he tripped and got his slides stuck in his leg?” Comments on such videos range from playful mockery, with users joking about losing aura points just by watching, to supportive and humorous reactions, like one commenter who wrote, “+100 cuz it’s funny lol.”
While many use this trend for lighthearted self-deprecation, a significant and more poignant sub-trend has emerged, particularly among teen girls. In these videos, the “aura points” question takes on a more serious tone as users share experiences of being misled, betrayed, or mistreated in relationships, asking “How many aura points did I lose?” in these emotionally vulnerable situations. This darker application of the trend highlights the emotional complexities of teenage relationships and serves as a reminder of the importance of open communication and support for teens navigating these experiences.
“Auramaxxing”: Boosting Your “Aura”
Building on the concept of “aura,” the term “auramaxxing” has emerged, mirroring other “maxxing” trends like “smellmaxxing.” “Auramaxxing” simply means maximizing your aura or actively working to enhance your coolness and social appeal.
This trend is particularly popular among teen and tween boys who are focused on self-improvement. According to TikTok and broader online discussions, “auramaxxing” can involve a variety of strategies, including:
- Developing a Unique and Confident Fashion Style: Expressing individuality and confidence through clothing choices.
- Prioritizing Physical Fitness: Working out and going to the gym to improve physical appearance and confidence.
- Maintaining Good Hygiene: Focusing on smelling good and presenting oneself well.
- Practicing Active Listening and Thoughtful Communication: Talking less and listening more to be perceived as more thoughtful and engaging.
“Auramaxxing” reflects a broader trend of self-improvement and social optimization among young people, often influenced by online culture and social media ideals.
“Define Aura”: The Ultimate Seal of Coolness
Perhaps the simplest yet most impactful “aura” trend is the phrase “define aura.” This expression is used to emphatically declare that a person, object, or even an abstract concept perfectly embodies “aura.”
Used in tweets, video overlays, or comments, “define aura” essentially means that if you were to look up “aura” in the dictionary, the image accompanying the definition would be the subject the poster is highlighting. It’s the ultimate stamp of approval, signifying that something or someone is the epitome of cool, stylish, or possessing that elusive “it” factor. Think of it as saying “This is peak aura.”
While you might not suddenly become Beyoncé overnight, understanding “aura slang” and these related trends can definitely boost your “cool points” with your kids. You’ll be better equipped to understand their online world and even engage in conversations about these trends. Just be prepared for a bit of playful eye-rolling – even perfect parental deployment of teen slang can sometimes be deemed, well, a little “cringe” by teenagers themselves!
