In brief
This year, Dictionary.com named '6-7' as its word of the year, a term that has captivated teenagers and puzzled adults. Originating from rapper Skrilla's song, the phrase gained popularity through a viral TikTok video featuring a boy dubbed 'The 6-7 Kid.' Despite its widespread usage, the meaning of '6-7' is still unclear, with various interpretations floating around. Dictionary.com describes it as nonsensical yet meaningful within its cultural context. The phenomenon has sparked reactions from parents, educators, and even the NFL, highlighting its significant impact on communication among youth.
Go ahead and roll your eyes. Shrug your shoulders. Or maybe just juggle your hands in the air.
Dictionary.com’s word of the year isn’t even really a word. It’s the viral term “6-7” that kids and teenagers can’t stop repeating and laughing about, while parents and teachers remain confused.
This term surged in popularity during the summer, acting more as an inside joke without a clear definition, largely fueled by social media.
Dictionary.com officially described the annual selection as a linguistic time capsule reflective of social trends, admitting its own confusion regarding '6-7.'
“Don’t worry, because we’re all still trying to figure out exactly what it means,” the site stated in its announcement.
How did ‘6-7’ become a thing?
The phrase traces back to rapper Skrilla’s song from 2024 titled “Doot Doot (6-7),” which started appearing in TikTok videos featuring basketball players, including NBA star LaMelo Ball, who is noted for being 6-foot-7. Additionally, a viral video featuring a boy known as “The 6-7 Kid” shouting the phrase while another child juggled his hands, helped cement the phrase's popularity.
What does ‘6-7’ mean?
The truth is that no one really knows what ‘6-7’ signifies, and its interpretation seems to vary based on context. Even the presentation of the phrase—whether it's '6-7', '6 7', or 'six seven'—is debatable. Dictionary.com suggests it could imply 'so-so' or convey indifference, particularly when paired with the juggling gesture. Merriam-Webster describes it as a “nonsensical expression used especially by teens and tweens,” often employed simply to irk adults.
Dictionary.com describes it as “meaningless, ubiquitous, and nonsensical,” yet it remains significant among its users due to the connections it fosters.
How has the rest of the world responded?
Parenting and teaching circles have reacted by creating their own videos attempting to decode this viral slang. Some parents seek strategies to curb their children from incessantly repeating it, while others suggest they embrace it. Teachers have even gone as far as to ban the phrase, as influencers and child psychologists attempt to make sense of its influence. Additionally, it has transcended into sports culture, with the NFL players adopting '6-7' to celebrate notable plays.
Why is it word of the year?
Dictionary.com selects words that impact communication and connections among people. Evaluating data from search engines and social media trends, the site's understanding of '6-7' indicates a significant rise in online searches, especially during the summer months, suggesting profound cultural relevance. “The Word of the Year isn’t just about popular usage; it reveals the stories we tell about ourselves and how we’ve changed over the year,” the site concludes.
