Dictionary.com has chosen the non-existent word “6-7” as its Word of the Year for 2025, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of language on the internet. This peculiar phrase, popularized by teenagers and preteens on social media, has become a perplexing and infectious linguistic trend. The exact meaning of “6-7” remains elusive, with Dictionary.com admitting that even they are still deciphering its significance.
The rise of “6-7” can be traced back to rapper Skrilla’s 2024 track “Doot Doot (6-7),” which gained traction on TikTok. The song featured prominently in various videos, including those of NBA player LaMelo Ball, who coincidentally stands at 6-foot-7. A pivotal viral moment ensued when a boy exclaimed “6-7!” while his friend mimicked juggling motions, propelling the phrase into popular culture with no clear definition but widespread usage.
Attempts to decode the meaning of “6-7” have yielded no concrete answers. Speculations range from interpretations like “so-so” or “indecisive” often accompanied by a distinctive hand gesture, to the notion that it serves as a tool for confusing adults, particularly favored by youth.
Merriam-Webster categorizes it as a “nonsensical expression embraced by adolescents,” while Dictionary.com humorously labels it as “meaningless, omnipresent, and nonsensical,” akin to brainrot. The phenomenon has elicited mixed reactions from adults, with teachers forbidding its use in classrooms, parents urging their children to refrain from saying it, and some even crafting “6-7” Halloween costumes in a bid to quash the trend deliberately.
Furthermore, “6-7” has transcended its origins and permeated the realm of sports, where NFL players employ the gesture to celebrate scoring touchdowns. Dictionary.com explains that the selection of “6-7” as Word of the Year encapsulates a snapshot of contemporary culture influencing communication. Search interest in “6-7” has surged sixfold since June, underscoring its deep integration into online culture and its role as a reflection of societal narratives and transformations.