Teen Slang · Social & friendship

What does “Cheugy” mean?

Outdated or trying too hard to be trendy — especially things associated with older millennials.

Where “Cheugy” comes from

Coined by a teen in 2013, went viral via TikTok and a New York Times piece in 2021.

Why teens actually say it

A way to mark something as off-trend or out-of-touch — often gently mocking.

What it means for you as a parent

Harmless taste-policing. You (and your decor) may be lovingly called cheugy.

How it’s used

  • “Those boots are kinda cheugy now, ngl.” Gently mocking something as dated or trying too hard. Light judgment.
  • “Putting that quote on a mug is so cheugy.” Poking fun at an out-of-style trend. Playful.

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