Internet Culture

Short for "suspicious" — describing behavior, a person, or a situation that seems sketchy, untrustworthy, or questionable. Popularized globally by the game Among Us (2020), where players accuse each other of being the impostor. Now used broadly for anything that doesn't seem right.

“Why is he being so quiet? That's pretty sus.”

Describes a new level of ability, confidence, or personality trait that someone has newly discovered or activated in themselves — borrowed from video game achievement terminology. "Unlocked" implies a previously inaccessible quality has now been fully accessed, often through experience, challenge, or personal growth.

“She took one improv class and suddenly confidence was fully unlocked.”

A viral 2024 phrase used to describe behavior that is extremely modest, restrained, mindful, and presentable. Originating from TikTok creator Jools Lebron's videos advising people on how to present themselves professionally and politely, it became a widespread template for humorously praising or describing careful, considerate behavior.

“I wore a neat blazer to the interview, very demure, very mindful.”

A perceptible change in the dominant cultural mood, aesthetic, or social energy — a moment when the prevailing "vibe" of a scene, generation, or internet culture noticeably shifts. Vibe shifts happen gradually then suddenly, leaving early adopters ahead of the trend and late adopters scrambling to catch up.

“There's been a major vibe shift — the irony-poisoned aesthetic is out and earnestness is back.”