“6-7” Named Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year
The viral phrase “6-7,” a seemingly nonsensical expression popularized by social media and a recent song, was named Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year today, reflecting a growing trend of internet-born slang influencing mainstream language.
The term’s origins trace back to a 2024 song, “Doot Doot (6-7),” by rapper Skrilla, which gained traction on TikTok, particularly within videos featuring basketball players – including NBA’s LaMelo Ball who stands 6-foot-7. The phrase then exploded after a video of a teenager shouting “6-7” while another performed a hand-juggling gesture went viral. Its meaning remains largely undefined, with interpretations ranging from “so-so” to a deliberate attempt to frustrate those asking for explanation.
“Don’t worry, because we’re all still trying to figure out exactly what it means,” Dictionary.com stated in its announcement. Merriam-Webster describes the phrase as a “nonsensical expression used especially by teens and tweens.” The site noted a six-fold increase in searches for “6-7” since June, demonstrating its widespread adoption. This selection highlights how quickly online culture can shape linguistic trends, and how even seemingly meaningless phrases can become a form of connection for young people – a phenomenon explored in studies of teen slang and communication.
The phrase has permeated various aspects of culture, from parents attempting to understand it to NFL players using it to celebrate plays. Dictionary.com chooses its Word of the Year based on words that significantly impact online communication and reflect societal shifts, as detailed on their Word of the Year page. Officials say they will continue to monitor the evolution of the term and its impact on language.
