If you have spent any time in the comments section of social media platforms, you may have noticed users "promoting" one another to executive status.
While the traditional definition of a CEO involves leadership and corporate strategy, the Gen Z iteration is an honorary title for anyone who has mastered a specific niche.
To Gen Z, being the "CEO of" something is the highest honour one can bestow upon a friend (or themselves). It's the linguistic equivalent of a gold star, used to describe someone who has completely mastered a trait, a trend, or even a hilarious fail.
What does 'CEO of' mean?
According to the BBC, "This expression is a funny or silly way of saying someone is the best at something."
"Usually used in a comment section of social media (especially TikTok) to say 'CEO of…' and just name anything shown in the video," describes Urban Dictionary.
How is the term used?
The phrase also functions as a "vibe check" or a way to acknowledge a "main character" moment. For instance, if an individual posts a photo in a great outfit, a Gen Z social media user may comment, "CEO of serving looks!" or say "CEO of overthinking" to someone who worries too much about everything.
Here are some social media posts which capture the Gen Z term:
Decoding the evolution of slang:
Gen Z, the generation that came after Millennials and before Generation Alpha, is not the first to create its own slang. In fact, each generation has its own set of communication that leaves the generations before it confused.
Gen Z often speak in a lexicon shaped by memes, internet humour, and cultural references. They seem to be more tech-savvy than previous generations. Gen Zers curate their online selves more carefully than those who came before them.
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