Tea

What do you mean by Tea?

"Online, the term 'tea' refers to gossip. Another way of expressing this is by saying 'spilling the tea'."

What is the meaning of 'spilling the tea'?

In modern slang, 'tea' is a term used to denote gossip or insider information. It is commonly used in the phrase 'spill the tea' or 'serve the tea,' which means to share exciting or exclusive details about a situation or person.

In African American Vernacular English (AAVE), 'tea' is utilized as slang to signify gossip, news, or personal details. The exact origin of the term is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged within the LGBTQ+ community before spreading to other facets of African American culture and eventually gaining popularity in mainstream culture. 'Spilling tea' is a phrase commonly employed to describe the act of sharing gossip or revealing personal information.

What is the origin of the saying 'spill the tea'?

The origins of the term 'tea' are thought to lie in African American Vernacular English, and it has since gained widespread usage on various social media platforms.

One theory suggests that 'tea' is an acronym for 'truth' or 'the truth.' The term was then employed as a shorthand for sharing information or gossip that was believed to be true. Another theory posits that 'tea' alludes to the act of 'spilling the tea,' which means disclosing something that was previously concealed or kept secret.

Irrespective of its exact origin, 'tea' has become a popular slang term in numerous communities, particularly among young people and Generation Z. It is widely employed on social media platforms and in everyday conversations. Furthermore, the term has been embraced in popular culture, with celebrities and influencers frequently using it to discuss gossip or reveal information about their lives.

How can you use 'tea' in a sentence?

Here are a couple of examples showcasing the usage of the term 'tea' in a sentence:

"Can you share the tea and inform me about what has been happening with you?"

"She always has the juiciest tea. I can't wait to hear what she has to say."

By understanding "tea" and other social media slang terms, you can navigate online conversations with confidence. Explore our Tea Glossary further to discover more essential terms and become a social media decoding pro!