Children, especially teenagers, often embrace slang to communicate, with the language evolving through social media influencers, musical artists, and AV content. This is why parents often struggle to understand and connect with their children in their language. One such term gaining popularity is ‘thicc’, which can raise eyebrows among parents who are unaware.
Meaning & Definition
So, what is 'thicc'? Originating from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), the slang 'thicc' usually depicts someone as having an attractive, curvy body. Adjectives like voluptuous or curvaceous are synonymous with the term. It is mostly used to appreciate someone's body in a positive and respectful way, but it can often be misinterpreted, so it's essential to educate and familiarize kids with the term's usage.
Usage
How to Discuss Slang with Your Child
- Ask, “What’s a new word you and your friends are into right now?”
- Relate with your own ‘cool’ terms: You can share phrases from your time such as, “When I was your age, people would say something was ‘all that and a bag of chips’ if it was awesome. What’s your favorite word to describe something as cool?”
- Discuss the meaning of emojis: Discuss the multifaceted nature of emojis, with a question like “I know emojis can mean something different to kids than they do to parents. Are there any emojis I use that you think I should stop using?”
- Know their emoji identification: A light, engaging question can also help – “If you could describe yourself using just one emoji, which one would you pick?”
Slang is a natural progression of language over time. Understanding and discussing these can bring you closer to your child’s world, invariably forming connections that bridge the generation gap. ‘Thicc’ is just one such term, but the primary objective is building healthy, respectful communication.