The internet is a constantly evolving landscape, especially when it comes to slang. One term that’s been rapidly gaining traction, particularly among younger generations, is “GYAT.” But what does it actually mean? And why is everyone suddenly saying it? This article delves into the meaning, origins, and usage of this viral slang term.
GYAT (rhymes with “squat,” “bought,” or “Fiat,” depending on your pronunciation) is a slang term with a couple of different interpretations. According to Bark, a company specializing in online monitoring and teen slang, GYAT can be an acronym for “Girl Your A** Thicc.” It can also be an abbreviation for “goddamn.” Interestingly, despite its potentially suggestive nature, it’s generally used as a compliment.
GYAT Meaning: A Compliment?
Urban Dictionary provides further insight, explaining that “GYAT” is often used to compliment someone with a curvaceous body. Variations like “GYATT” (spelled with two Ts) can describe a man or woman with a particularly prominent posterior.
Dictionary.com offers another perspective, defining “Gyatt or gyat” as a slang term “used to express strong excitement, surprise, or admiration.” So, while the term is often associated with physical appearance, it can also be a general expression of positive emotion.
The Origins of GYAT
The origins of GYAT are somewhat debated, but it seems to have emerged from African American Vernacular English (AAVE).
John H McWhorter, a linguistics professor at Columbia University, explained to TODAY.com that “GYAT evolved from ‘goddamn.’ Specifically, a heightened way of saying it has always been ‘GOT-damn!’ which GYAT is based on.” This connection to “goddamn” explains its use as an expression of surprise or excitement.
Kelly Elizabeth Wright, an assistant professor of Language Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, notes the competing theories surrounding the term’s origin, suggesting possible influences from Black Southern and Jamaican communities. Regardless of its precise origin, it’s clear that GYAT has roots in Black culture.
Currently, Wright believes the term is most actively used by “younger, online gamers.”
How Gen Alpha Uses GYAT
Gen Alpha (those born after 2012) is largely responsible for popularizing “GYAT/TT” in mainstream online culture.
David Burke, aka “Slangman,” points out that slang terms like GYAT help teens establish independence and form their own identities. Teens use GYAT both verbally and on social media and messaging platforms like TikTok, Twitch, Discord, and YouTube. It can serve as a conversation starter or a shorthand way to communicate within character limits.
While GYAT is often used in reference to someone’s physical appearance, it’s important to remember that it’s generally intended as a compliment. As Burke explains, saying “Wow you have a GYAT” means “You have a big beautiful butt.”
However, the use of such slang raises questions about objectification and body image, particularly among young people.
Should Parents Use GYAT?
The question remains: should parents adopt the term “GYAT”? The answer is generally no, or at least not in front of their kids.
A survey by Prodigy Education found that while 70% of parents use slang with their children, 56% of those kids find their parents’ slang usage “cringe.” Slang is often “age-stamped,” and parents using teen slang can come across as trying too hard or out of touch.
Titania Jordan, CMO of Bark.us, warns against embarrassing teenagers by using their slang. Instead, she suggests casually inquiring about the term or turning it into a game.
Ultimately, understanding teen slang is valuable for parents to ensure their children’s safety and well-being. But when it comes to using the slang themselves, it’s best to proceed with caution. Using it incorrectly, or at the wrong time, may make you the subject of ridicule.
In conclusion, “GYAT” is a multifaceted slang term with roots in AAVE that has been popularized by Gen Alpha. It can express admiration, excitement, or surprise, and is often used as a compliment, particularly regarding physical appearance. While it’s important for parents to understand such slang, using it themselves may be counterproductive.
