Teen Slang · Social & friendship

What does “Lore” mean?

A person's backstory or accumulated personal history. 'You don't know her lore.' Also '+ lore' means a moment adds to someone's legend.

Where “Lore” comes from

From gaming and fandom (a game's 'lore'), applied jokingly to real people online.

Why teens actually say it

It treats friends' lives like an unfolding story worth knowing.

What it means for you as a parent

Playful framing of gossip or personal history. Harmless unless it is used to spread private information.

How it’s used

  • “You don’t even know her lore, trust me.” Hinting at a rich backstory others miss. Knowing and a little smug.
  • “Tripping over the curb really added to my lore.” Joking that an embarrassing moment adds to their legend. Self-aware humor.

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