“Unveiled: The 2023 Oxford Word of the Year and Its Gen Z Usage”

Oxford’s Word of the Year for 2023 has been announced and it is the term “Rizz.” This term has overtaken contenders like “Swiftie,” “situationship,” and “de-influencing” to claim the coveted title.

The annual distinction is not simply about acknowledging a popular buzzword; it is about pinpointing a term that captures the essence of the time, providing a glimpse of the cultural and linguistic landscape of the year. According to the Oxford University Press, the winning word or expression must embody a period and display the potential for lasting cultural significance.

For those who might not be familiar with “Rizz,” particularly those beyond the Gen Z demographic, fear not; you’re not alone. Let’s delve into the depths of this linguistic phenomenon and understand how the younger generation is seamlessly incorporating it into their conversations.

According to the Oxford University Press, “Rizz” is a colloquial term that refers to style, charm, or attractiveness, specifically denoting the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner. It’s a versatile term, encompassing a spectrum of positive connotations related to personal allure and appeal.

The Oxford University Press suggests that it’s believed to have been derived from the middle of “charisma,” drawing a parallel with how “fridge” is an abbreviation for “refrigerator.” However, it’s worth noting that the origins of this term are not universally agreed upon and remain subject to debate.

Words that gain traction often find their way into the vocabulary of celebrities. Figures like actor Tom Holland and sports reporter Shams Charania have become linked with the term. Holland, in a statement over the summer, prompted online discussions by saying, “I have no rizz whatsoever,” fueling speculation about his relationship with Zendaya.

The term gained momentum on platforms like TikTok and Twitch, largely thanks to influencer Kai Cenat. With over 8 million followers on Twitch, where Cenat livestreams his video gaming sessions and engages in casual conversations, “Rizz” rapidly spread through digital spaces.

Cenat, during an interview on the No Jumper podcast, shed light on the genesis of “Rizz.” Born among Cenat and his friends from the Bronx, “Rizz” is a term used to describe a scenario where a person goes from being uninterested to intrigued. Cenat’s explanation is straightforward: “Oh yeah, I rizzed her up. I got mad rizz.”

Despite some speculation that “Rizz” might be a shortening of charisma, Cenat dismisses this notion. To him, “Rizz” simply means “game.” In an interview on the Complex video show 360 with Speedy Morman, Cenat clarified, “People say it’s short for charisma. But like, not to me.”

“Rizz” embodies the linguistic creativity and adaptability characteristic of Gen Z. It reflects a generation’s ability to craft and embrace terms that succinctly capture complex emotions and experiences. More than a mere word, “Rizz” becomes an artifact of a cultural moment, shaping the way young individuals communicate and connect in the digital age.

Oxford’s selection of “Rizz” as the Word of the Year is a nod to the dynamism of language and its capacity to evolve with the times. As we navigate this linguistic landscape, “Rizz” stands as a symbol of the ongoing transformation of communication, demonstrating that language is not static but a vibrant entity that reflects the spirit of the age. Whether you’re a linguistics enthusiast or just getting acquainted with the latest in Gen Z vernacular, “Rizz” is undeniably a term worth exploring and integrating into your lexicon.