Go ahead and roll your eyes. The new word of the year from Dictionary.com isn’t really a word at all. It’s “6-7,” a phrase kids and teens are saying nonstop, leaving parents and teachers scratching their heads.
This term grew in popularity over the summer, becoming an inside joke that thrives on social media. Dictionary.com itself admitted it’s a bit perplexed by “6-7,” noting that everyone is still trying to grasp what it truly means.
How Did ‘6-7’ Catch On?
The phrase traces back to rapper Skrilla’s song from 2024, titled “Doot Doot (6-7).” It took off on TikTok, especially among basketball fans, including NBA star LaMelo Ball, who stands 6-foot-7. The spark really ignited when a kid, dubbed “The 6-7 Kid,” shouted the phrase while another kid joked around, causing the video to go viral this year.
What’s the Meaning of ‘6-7’?
Here’s the kicker: no one really knows. The interpretation can vary based on who you ask. There’s even debate about how to write it. Is it “6-7,” “6 7,” or “six seven”? Dictionary.com suggests it can mean “so-so” or “maybe” when paired with a juggling gesture.
Merriam-Webster calls it a “nonsensical expression,” often used by teens and tweens to baffle adults. Dictionary.com describes it as “meaningless” but still significant for those who use it because of the connections it creates.
User Reactions and Social Media Trends
Parents and teachers have taken to their own platforms to address this craze. Some try to explain it, while others suggest wearing “6-7” costumes for Halloween to make it less cool. Some educators have banned it, while influencers and child psychologists attempt to decode it.
Interestingly, even the NFL has adopted “6-7” as a celebratory phrase during games. This widespread usage only highlights its influence.
Why Is It Word of the Year?
Dictionary.com emphasizes that its word picks reflect the conversations we have and how we communicate online. They noted that searches for “6-7” skyrocketed by six times since June, illustrating its impact. The choice for word of the year isn’t just about popularity; it also tells a story about how we’ve evolved in our communication.
As the world grapples with this quirky term, one thing remains clear: “6-7” is more than just a phrase; it’s a phenomenon that illustrates the changing landscape of language today. Whether it will resonate in the future remains to be seen, but for now, it’s part of the tapestry of modern communication.
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General news, AP Top News, LaMelo Ball, Entertainment, Teens, Technology, Lifestyle, U.S. news, Hip hop and rap, Education
