What does IYKYK mean? The slang term is all over the internet

The internet is full of slang terms, and there seems to be no shortage of new entries to the dictionary of online lingo.

Nowadays, TikTokers are using the acronym “IYKYK” to discuss a range of “inside jokes” on social media. In fact, the hashtag is so popular that #iykyk currently has 3.4 billion views on TikTok

Here’s everything you need to know about the phrase and popular hashtag. 

What does the acronym ‘IYKYK’ stand for?

IYKYK means “if you know, you know.” The phrase implies that the user has dropped some sort of insider knowledge about a specific experience.

While IYKYK became popular on social media in 2020, it actually dates back to 2016, according to Urban Dictionary

Urban Dictionary defines IYKYK as, “If you were there, you’d know, but if you weren’t, you wouldn’t. Simple teenage stuff.” 

Some examples of IYKYK on social media

The phrase seems to be hip amongst college students who are a part of Greek life. 

“Greek life really prepared me for this quarantine #iykyk,” user @BParroquin tweeted.

@rece.delo

I hope nobody else has to go threw this #mood #iykyk

♬ the sound but with no cussing – bryn

TikToker @rece.delo used the hashtag to describe that feeling when you’re watching a racy scene with your parents.

Another user, @christiantheshowm, used it to poke fun at Millennials’ existential dread.

“I’m a psych student and it be like that sometimes,” one person commented.

“That’s a mood, bud,” another said.

If you enjoyed this story, find out what “FYP” stands for on TikTok.

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