Unlock Your Rizz: The Oxford Word of the Year Explained

Is your chat game on point? If yes, you might already possess the mysterious quality known as “rizz” – the Oxford Word of the Year. Wondering what it is and if you’ve got it? Let’s break it down for you:

What is Rizz?

Rizz, internet slang for romantic appeal or charm, is all the rage among young people.
Oxford University Press defines it as style, charm, or attractiveness, particularly in attracting romantic or sexual partners.
It’s like the Gen Z version of “game” – the skill to attract others using charm.

Rizz on the Rise

Billions of TikTok views don the hashtag #rizz, proving its massive online presence.
YouTuber and Twitch streamer Kai Cenat is credited with popularizing the term among friends.

How to Use Rizz

Rizz isn’t just a noun; it’s also a verb. “To rizz up” means to attract, seduce, or charm someone.
Even actor Tom Holland, when asked about his rizz, claimed to have “limited rizz” but won over his girlfriend Zendaya by playing the “long game.”

The Shortlisted Contenders

The Oxford Word of the Year shortlist included intriguing contenders like Swiftie, beige flag, situationship, and more.
Each word reflects the mood, ethos, or preoccupations of 2023.

Other Notable Contenders

Beige flag: A trait indicating a partner’s lack of originality.
Situationship: An informal romantic or sexual relationship.
Swiftie: An enthusiastic Taylor Swift fan.
Heat dome: A weather system trapping hot air over a region.

Behind the Scenes

Oxford lexicographers narrowed down the list after a public vote.
The draft definitions provide insight into the selected words, with some potentially making it to the Oxford English Dictionary.

Why Rizz?

Casper Grathwohl, president at Oxford Word Languages, suggests that “rizz” reflects a prevailing mood in 2023, symbolizing increased confidence after challenging times.
It shows how internet culture is influencing day-to-day language, becoming an integral part of our vernacular.

In a world where words like “goblin mode” dominated last year, “rizz” takes the spotlight, ushering in a new era of linguistic trends. So, do you have the elusive rizz factor? It might just be the key to unlocking your romantic charisma in 2024!