Here’s What It Means When Your Kid Says That’s ‘Bussin'

If you have a tween or teen, then it's safe to say you've probably heard them say "that's bussin." Maybe they used the term after a delicious meal they've had or after viewing a stylish outfit a celebrity wore at a concert—regardless, the word is popping up everywhere.

The term "bussin" is another slang word that you'll need to add to your vocabulary if you want to keep up with the kids both in real life and on social media . So we've done some research about the origins of this popular slang word, the meaning of "bussin," and how it has integrated into everyday vocabulary for tweens and teens these days.

Editor's Note

Many of the phrases you hear from your teens originated in Black culture, as well as Black queer culture. Lots of mainstream popular terms are derived from African American Vernacular English (AAVE). To categorize these words as solely Gen Z or Gen Alpha slang misrepresents their history, and over-simplifies the way in which language evolves and grows. These words aren't created by today's teens, but they have become embedded in youth culture all the same.

What Does 'Bussin' Mean?

"Bussin" is often used as an adjective to signify that something is excellent or delicious. It can be used in lieu of a world like, "amazing" or "stunning." It can also be used as a verb, in the form of "buss." Teens can say, "that show buss" as a way of saying "that show was great." Overall, it is a marker of approval.

Here are some examples of how teens might use the word "bussin" in a sentence:

• These fries are bussin
• Your mom's cooking is always bussin
• Man this tropical resort is bussin, they literally have everything!
• You look bussin
• Let's go there, it's bussin

Teens may use the word when out with their friends at the mall, in the cafeteria, at a restaurant, or at the park. They also often use it under posts on social media , comments will typically include some version of the term "bussin."

The most common use of the term "bussin" is in reference to how food tastes. Most teens who use the term will use it after eating something delicious and say, "that was bussin."

'Bussin' Origins

While the word "bussin" has been popularized by social media and online culture, it actually has origins in African American Vernacular English (AAVE). AAVE typically uses liaisons to blend consonants and words with similar vowel sounds.

According to an article from Planoly, "bussin" found its roots in the colloquial expression "busting," which colloquially refers to an exceptionally good or enjoyable thing. Eventually, the harsher sound of the "ting" was morphed into a softer "in" and the phrase "bussin" was born. The word became popular as it spread through online discourse, in-person communities , and social media.

"Black teens are usually the ones to amplify certain terms, and then teens of all ages often adopt the terms and spread them widely through society," says Suzanne Mungalez, PsyD, perinatal psychologist at The MaMASpace . "'Bussin' is no different—a term meaning that something is impressive, amazing, or delicious."

When Did 'Bussin' Become Popular?

Living in an internet-driven world means we’re constantly seeking connection, often through the language we use. "Popular figures and influencers on social media play a significant role in shaping which slang terms take off," says Patricia S Dixon , PhD, licensed clinical psychologist and professor in Tampa, FL. "For many, adopting new slang has become a way to fit in and gain acceptance within their communities."

Additionally, one often-overlooked aspect of slang is its ability to convey feelings and energy behind words. "'Bussin'" embodies that enthusiasm—when you take a bite of something fantastic, saying it was “bussin” communicates just how much you enjoyed it," says Dr. Dixon. "It adds a layer of fun and excitement to the dining experience, making it a vibrant part of teen culture."

Examples of "bussin" in the media

Not only do teens use the word "bussin", but popular celebrities and influencers have also hopped on the trend in music and on TikTok . For example, rappers Nicki Minaj and Tay Money have songs called "Bussin'" which brought more attention to the slang word. Additionally, content creators such as Charli D'Amelio and Brittany Broski have also been seen using the word in their online content to describe positive experiences they've had.

Other Slang Terms Similar to 'Bussin'

Similar to "bussin," here are some other slang words you may hear your teen saying or people on social media:

• Cap – lying or faking
• Bet – okay
• Rizz – when someone has charisma
• Sus – suspicious
• Gyat - a big butt
• Ohio – strange, cringe, dumb

Let Teen Slang Be

For many teens, using slang terms like "bussin" is a way to express who they are and to signal their belonging to a specific group. "It creates a sense of intimacy and shared understanding, allowing them to communicate in a kind of code that feels unique to their circle ," says Dr. Dixon.

That said, it's important for parents to educate themselves on what the popular slang terms are, but know their place when it comes to using them. "Testing the slang when it feels right but also allowing the teens to have their own sense of communication is important," says Reena B. Patel , positive psychologist and licensed behavioral analyst.

So even if you're tempted to try and sound as cool as your teen, it could just make them uncomfortable hearing you describe a meal as "bussin." Give them the space to explore this new form of communication—they don't have to know that you know exactly what they're saying.

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Read the original article on Parents .