Sometimes people use the word “gagged” when they aren’t talking about obstructing someone’s breathing. Confused? Don’t worry, this article will briefly tell you everything you need to know…
What is meant by the word “gagged” in Gen Z slang?
Simply put, the slang word “gagged” means that someone is so stunned that they can’t even speak, as though someone has put a gag in their mouth and gagged them.
Where did the slang word “gagged” come from?
This was mentioned earlier, but it bears repeating. The slang meaning of the word “gagged” comes from the literal definition, which involves restricting speech, implying that the person is so overwhelmed they can’t even speak.
The slang term originated from LGBTQ+ ballroom culture in the 1970s and 80s in New York. It evolved from the original meaning of “gag” (i.e. to restrict the mouth to prevent speech) and it’s used to express strong reactions such as shock and disbelief.
Then the slang word became more mainstream through its usage in the film Paris is Burning which was set around the LGBTQ+ ballroom scene, making it part of the lexicon of younger generations. Today, Gen Z often uses the phrase online and on social media to express emotions such as shock and disbelief.
Why “gagged”’s meaning in slang often gets confused
In addition to meaning restricting airflow in breathing, in English, the word “gag” can also be used to refer to jokes and pranks. But then there’s also the British slang phrase “gagging for it” which means being very eager for something (usually for something specific such as sex or a drink, or a cigarette, and so on.
You can determine what someone means by considering it in the context of the rest of the sentence or conversation.
How you can use the slang word “gagged” - featuring example usage
Here are some examples of the slang in use to aid understanding:
- When she told me who she was dating I gagged. I just can’t believe she would start dating Kate’s Dad. That’s quite the age gap.
- When I heard about the voluntary redundancies I gagged - I could really use that kind of money. It was a no brainer.
- I gagged when I saw them together - I thought enemies to lovers was just a book trope!
- I gagged when he proposed - it was so unexpected I forgot to say yes!
- I gagged when I saw her on the dance floor - absolutely breathtaking!
Final word
So, to summarise, the slang word “gagged” refers to being so stunned or shocked by something that they can’t even speak. While the slang meaning of the term is currently popular with Gen Z, it actually dates back to the 1970s and 80s, and was popularised through the film Paris is Burning released in the year 1990.
The meaning of the word “gagged” in slang can sometimes be confused, so be sure to pay attention to the context in which it is being said.
