‘Holy Airball' Is a New Teen Slang Term That Actually Makes Sense
If you've been seeing 'holy airball' (sometimes with an f-bomb thrown in the middle) all over TikTok, then you might feel a little lost. Is this new teen trend something dirty? Something confusing or complicated to explain like Gurt? It's hard to keep up with the youths these days! Luckily for us, holy airball is a term that actually makes sense once it's broken down.
One mom on TikTok @_bekahshopp20_ asked, 'what tf does #holyfknairball mean? Like I feel extremely confused.' In the comments, people came through for her, explaining that an airball is a term used in basketball.
More from SheKnows
Forget Summer School - These Free Harvard Courses Let Teens Explore Their Passions at Their Own Pace
'An airball is when you shoot a basketball but it doesn't go in/ it isn't close to the net at all,' one person explained. 'So the trend is about someone shooting their shot and being rejected (not making the shot). I hope that makes sense lol'
Another person explained, 'in TikTok just like in basketball it means a misinterpretation or like a completely different thing from what ur talking about (basically a miss ).'
Know Your Meme explained that the term derived from expressions of shock like 'holy cow,' using it to mean a huge misunderstanding of something another person told them. So in the trend, teens are sharing stories of how they are talking about something, and someone else completely misinterprets what they meant. It's usually joking or exaggerated stories, accompanied by Jeezy's 'Soul Survivor' on TikTok and usually accompanied by pictures or videos of the receipts to make it even funnier.
Like this TikToker, who wrote, 'told her I love cheating.' Then, 'She said, 'me too I cheated on my ex.''
Then he shared a picture of his phone with test answers on it, showing that he was talking about cheating at school and not in relationships, adding '#holyfknairball'
Another girl wrote, 'Told him I was going on a run. He said, 'oh I love girls who do cardio.''
She added, 'Holy air ball … I'm going on a run for Taco Bell,' with a picture of her holding a bag of tacos.
Even celebrities have gotten in on the trend, like Julianne Hough. The Dancing with the Stars pro wrote, 'Told him I like to dance. He said 'oh cute, as a kid?''
'#HOLYAIRBALL' she added, with a video montage of her professionally dancing now.
Teen slang is confusing for those of us born in the 1900s, so we've compiled a handy guide of all things we've heard Gen Z saying online and IRL. Check out the list HERE for more head-scratching terms and their meanings (… as best as we can figure out!).Best of SheKnows
26 Stunning, Unique Jewelry Brands & Pieces for Teens
19 Celebrity Parents With Trans & Nonbinary Kids
20 of Serena Williams' Most Adorable Motherhood Moments
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Times
an hour ago
- New York Times
Squeezed by China's Slowdown, Internet Users Lash Out at Elites
What do a Chinese commencement speaker at Harvard, an actress posting selfies and a trainee doctor at a Beijing hospital have in common? Not much — except that they've all found themselves at the heart of fierce online debates in China about privilege and inequality. The three disputes, which have dominated Chinese social media in recent weeks, all featured accusations that the main players had gotten ahead by dirty means, whether that was true or not. The Harvard graduate faced questions — unfair ones, some say — about how she had gotten into the elite American university; the actress, about how she could afford the flashy jewelry she wore in her selfies; and the doctor, about how she'd obtained her job at the hospital. All three were depicted as having had a leg up because of parents with connections. There is no evidence that the Harvard graduate did anything wrong, while Chinese government investigations have found fault in the other two cases. But many commentators, in state-run media and elsewhere, have said that the outcries over all three may share a common root: a sense of resentment and anxiety that in China's fiercely competitive society, merit may be irrelevant. Such concerns are longstanding, but they have grown more urgent as China's economy slows and opportunities for upward mobility seem to be disappearing. The government, fearing social unrest, has vowed to address inequality. China's leader, Xi Jinping, has pledged to work for 'common prosperity' and crack down on corruption. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
New York Times
an hour ago
- New York Times
A Biotech Start-Up Promises Immortality. Is It All a Fraud?
NOTES ON INFINITY, by Austin Taylor In Austin Taylor's debut, 'Notes on Infinity,' the campus novel is reimagined as a start-up fairy tale: Two college students from different worlds meet, spend their days and nights enjoying a heady exchange of ideas, drop out of school, found a wildly successful company, and flame out in scandal. Zoe, a driven and polished undergraduate chemist at Harvard, takes up with Jack, who at first seems to be a flaky genius in the grand tradition. Together they hatch an idea for prolonging human life, and name their biotech company Manna. One of them is keeping secrets, however, and the speed of their success doesn't allow either the time or inclination to reflect. Readers will see Theranos and a bit of FTX in the novel's inspiration, allusions that serve to dramatize the psychology of ambition and denial, how fraud can begin as a desperate, temporary fix, and then grow as the cost of the deception builds and builds. Taylor doesn't make her founders' initial lie explicit until after their fall from grace, leaving the reader to suspect that the whole business has to be rotten but not knowing exactly how or where. Mostly the pages turn themselves, but at times the familiarity of the plot can be grating. This is the challenge of basing any narrative on current events: When you think you know where a story is going, it's harder to see the characters as people. The messy, complex bond between Zoe and Jack gives the events greater texture and dimension, though: They lie to protect not just themselves, but each other. In this campus novel, the allure of tech entrepreneurship has altered the social hierarchy, to a point. Jack is befriended by a rich student named Carter, whom he later overhears justifying their relationship to his rich friends as they place bets on which of their awkward, outsider classmates will be 'the next Zuck.' When your peers place bets on your future, you become not a friend, but an instrument of their strategy. After some initial throat clearing, Taylor's fast-paced writing captures the pressure of start-up culture, and the ease with which a founder can be separated from their own creation. Zoe and Jack divvy up their responsibilities to match their perceived talents: Jack as the chaotic scientist, Zoe as the articulate, organized and elegant face of Manna. All public scrutiny will fall on her, while Jack will enjoy the benefits of the tech visionary stereotype. This fits neatly with their respective upbringings: Zoe's father is an M.I.T. professor and her mother is the renowned hostess of his 'living room seminars,' where 6-year-old Zoe 'would sometimes answer one of his rhetorical questions or proposals in a small, high voice: 'Your reasoning sounds flawed,' or 'Did you check your math there, Daddy?' Everyone thought this was adorable.' Jack grew up poor and neglected in central Maine; Harvard is his chance to escape, until he wants to escape it, too. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Buzz Feed
an hour ago
- Buzz Feed
30 Things To Basically Transform Your Backyard Into A 5-Star Resort
A black and white outdoor rug so chic it'll instantly transform your backyard into a scene straight out of The White Lotus. Not only does it add a touch of pizzazz to your outdoor space, but it's also made from durable materials designed to withstand the elements. Hauteloom is a small business in Georgia that sells rugs for the review: "Delivered exactly as described. This is a really beautiful outdoor rug that adds coziness and pop to my deck. I put heavy items around the perimeter of the rug for a day to help flatten the edges. Great price for a great quality rug." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $35+ (available in 15 sizes and three colors). A narrow wicker chair to give you all the cozy, cocoon-like vibes of an egg chair — without eating up half your patio. It's just as comfy and stylish as the oversized versions, but way better at fitting into tight spots. Promising review: "Loved this compact version of an egg chair. It it gorgeous and doesn't take up too much space on the patio. It was very easy to put together and the instructions were clear and simple to read. This chair is very sturdy and doesn't seem like it will unravel or break. The cushions are very plush and the covers unzip and can easily be cleaned in a washing machine. Overall, this purchase has been so worth it." —Evelyn Ndidi Get it from Amazon for $118.50+ (available in four styles; be sure to clip the $10 off coupon when applicable). A wicker patio set that turns your outdoor space into a cozy little nook where you can sip your coffee and read an important piece of just zone out while doomscrolling TikTok. Promising review: "I love this loveseat ... when my cat is not hoarding it 😩 I spend so much time sitting longways on it, reading books. It's lightweight but sturdy — I weigh over 200 pounds and feel supported while stretched out on it. It was also super easy to assemble. I normally hire someone to assemble anything that comes in pieces, but I was able to tackle this alone in about 45 minutes." —Brittney-Elizabeth Williams Get it from Amazon for $189.99+ (available in six colors and 1-, 3-, or 5-piece sets). A very pretty garden bench, because folks need a beautiful place to sit. Whether it's strategically placed on your porch or plopped down in the middle of your garden, it's sure to turn heads with its unique design and available colors. Promising review: "Its sturdy construction and classic design make it a standout piece for any patio. The robust cast-iron and steel frame ensure longevity, while the generous size accommodates comfortable seating. Elevate your outdoor space with this timeless and reliable garden bench." —Zhang_ShawnGet it from Amazon for $129.99+ (available in several styles and colors). A pack of solar-powered path lights that stick right into the ground so your pathways are always beautifully lit once the sun sets. Because they're powered by the sun, you never need to worry about running out of battery or turning them on at night. It all happens automatically! Promising review: "These are great lights, we use them in our front and backyard. They are long lasting and create a resort-like appearance." —Michele Get it from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in three light colors and packs of four or eight). A bottle of grass seed specifically designed to repair damage to your lawn caused by pets and sun. Using a combination of mulch, seed, and soil, you simply sprinkle this over your problem areas and let it do its thing. Within weeks, those bald spots will be gone. Promising review: "Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for Grass is truly a lifesaver for my lawn! I had numerous dead spots caused by my dogs' urine, and I needed a solution fast. After applying this magic dust as directed, followed by watering, I was amazed by the results. The dead patches transformed into lush, green grass in no time! This product definitely lives up to its promises and works wonders for repairing damaged areas on the lawn. Just be sure to follow the directions closely for best results. I highly recommend Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair Sun and Shade for anyone looking to revitalize their lawn effortlessly." —MJGet it from Amazon for $19.30. A colorful three-piece patio set for when you're dealing with limited space but want a cozy place to enjoy your morning cup of joe or a meal outside. The bright color can create a nice focal point in an otherwise drab area of your outdoor space. An outdoor furniture set that includes a sofa, two chairs, and two ottomans because your backyard should be just as inviting and stylish as your living room. The sofa and chairs offer ample seating for guests, while the ottomans serve double duty as extra seating or a spot to kick up your feet. Promising review: "This patio furniture is great for the price. One of the better known brands would sell a set like this for about $2,500–$3,000. It took a long time to put together by myself, but it was well worth the effort. My sister is on the market for patio furniture and I recommended this set to her." —Ant Rico Get it from Amazon for $799+ (available in two colors and with or without arms on the side chairs). A set of metal hanging flower pots so you can have fresh flowers or herbs whenever you want. Each set includes 10 planters, so you can plant different types of flowers, herbs, and other greenery to really make a big visual impact. A waterproof outdoor curtain to either partition off space in your outdoor space or provide you with some privacy, like if your balcony looks directly onto someone else's balcony or something unsightly. A canopy swing that rocks and swings *and* provides you with shade on extra sunny days. It's zero gravity, so when you're all tucked in you'll feel weightless. Some color-changing inflatable pool balls so your pool is always the place to party. They're solar-powered and will last about eight hours on a single charge. A pack of waterproof playing cards to keep yourself occupied during those lazy spring days. No need to worry about drink spills or sudden spring showers. Just wipe down, and voila! They're like new. Promising review: "These playing cards are a HIT. I take them out with me for social events and when visiting people, even to the beach. We just play and play. So you can get them wet and they won't soggy up and tear it just become a little hard to shuffle. It is so cool that they look like you can see right straight through them but you can't." —TabithaGet them from Amazon for $5.99. A gorgeous teak and powder-coated aluminum dining set that'll make you want to eat all your meals al fresco. The spaciousness means no one has to fight for elbow room, and the durable materials mean you won't be scrambling to cover it any time there's a chance of rain. I set this table up on my deck last summer, and let me tell you, my family practically lived at it. We ate at it every single day while the weather was nice, and even kept using it deep into winter — right up until frostbite became a real threat. The seats? Shockingly cushy. The table? Sleek, sturdy, and a breeze to clean. It's a total showstopper that somehow blends in beautifully with my deck and garden. I love hosting dinner parties, and am so looking forward to the upcoming spring and summer so I can serve meals outside on this again. Get it from NewAge for $2,299.99. A customized outdoor pillow so guests feel welcome when they come over to enjoy your beautiful backyard. It's made from a burlap-like material, so it has major farmhouse vibes. A hanging hammock chair, because sometimes you just need a main character moment and this is the chair that'll give it to you. A portable 100-inch movie screen for hosting an outdoor movie night. Now that a lot of movies are premiering on streaming services instead of exclusively in theaters, you can have your own red carpet opening night (ball gowns and tuxedos optional). A sleek three-piece rocking chair set so you can spend lazy days rocking it out on your porch. Soon, you'll be spending more time outdoors than in, so it's essential to have a nice place to sit back and relax. Promising review: "This set is beautiful, good quality — especially for the price and so sleek and bold looking! I ordered this twice because I was so thrilled with the first set I ordered!" —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $114.99. A pressure washer to make grimy surfaces like new again. From stained decks and concrete to outdoor furniture and cooking equipment, this will help tackle difficult cleaning tasks that you thought couldn't be remedied. Promising review: "This power washer was easy to use and did the job well. I used it on my driveway, paver path and patio. The attachments for soap and the various angle heads snap on quickly and are conveniently stored on the unit. Some assembly is required out of the box, but it is simple and only requires a screwdriver." —MichaelGet it from Amazon for $159.20. A quilted hammock with a detachable pillow so you can take a long nap outside. Each hammock can hold up to 450 pounds, so grab a loved one and get to snuggling. You can get the canopy here!What's included: One pillow, two chains, and two S-shaped hooks. Promising review: "There is nothing more comfortable than being cradled and rocked in a hammock that is comfortable with its padded quilted canvas, built-in pillow, and the size built for two. The craftsmanship and anchors give you a secure feeling." — it from Amazon for $69.49+ (available in seven colors). A well-designed modern shed that gives your backyard a sleek and chic storage solution that doesn't scream "plastic eyesore." With its weather-resistant resin construction, steel reinforcement, and wood-like texture, it's as sturdy as it is stylish. Plus, the double doors and roomy interior means you can finally stash everything from bikes to bulky lawn equipment without playing an intense game of Tetris. Get it from Keter for $1,899.99. A cedar backyard play set with all the bells and whistles so your kids and their friends are entertained for years to come. This thing has everything! Swings, climbing wall, picnic table, slide, sandbox, and more. Promising review: "I ordered this kit, and delivery was fast. Came in four boxes. Assembly was not rocket science, but you will need to know your way around a drill and sockets and wrenches. The kit was well made. All wood arrived in great shape, all predrilled holes were precisely placed. Everything fit together very easily. It took me about 12 hours to assemble and I am very experienced with tools, but I just took my time and it looks just like the picture in the ad. My granddaughter loves it and can't stay away. This was a really great purchase. After a few days of use there is some normal wear on the wood on the rock climbing wall, so I'm going to seal it with Thompson's water seal. No biggie. Highly recommended." —Richard L Wilson Get it from Amazon for $899.99. A triangular sail to block harmful UV rays while providing you with necessary shade. A simple way to create a cool, relaxing area during those hot spring and summer days. The corners of the sails have D rings so you can attach them to whatever you'd like with your choice of hardware or review: "Purchased this to increase privacy and provide some shade. The color is vibrant, hasn't faded, and the loops are well-stitched. The sail has also fared well in winds, thunderstorms, monsoon rain, and the brutal heat of Vegas. Shade is wonderful and one can definitely feel the temperature difference from full sun to being under this sail. The look and feel compliments our pool area and will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC MediaGet it from Amazon for $16.79+ (available in a variety of sizes and 16 colors/patterns). A gas firepit table so you can keep warm on chilly nights. It comes with a glass lid, so when the fire's not in use it can be used as a table. Promising review: "My favorite purchase for our deck. I LOVE this fire table. Good size, great value compared to what is out there. Packaged nicely. My husband put together alone in 30–45 minutes with no frustration and easy to follow directions. Puts out a decent amount of heat. Enough rocks to adequately cover. Just add your propane tank. I love that it has a lid as well. You will find sturdier fire tables, but not at this price. Excellent value." —BelliumGet it from Amazon for $189.99+ (available in two sizes; be sure to clip the $30 off coupon). A set of eight solar-powered jar lanterns filled with string lights to create a whimsical outdoor experience every time the sun goes down. The battery life can be maintained for more than 500 cycles of charging, so these will be the star of the show for at least a few summers. A retro-style cornhole set for keeping guests entertained. This will be the VIP when everyone's waiting around for their burgers to come off the grill before lunchtime. A small wicker couch and matching ottoman with storage to provide you and your bestie with a place to comfortably sit when it comes to enjoying a cocktail at sunset. Some interlocking teak tiles for sectioning off a special area of your backyard. No tools or glue are required; the tiles just snap together. Teak is also a preferred wood for all outdoor stuff because of its ability to survive through all types of weather. It's one of the few woods around that contains a natural oil that repels water. Promising reviews: "Living in Hawaii, you have to select wise items that are weather-, salt-, and red dirt–proof, etc... In total I ordered 11 boxes to complete my yoga deck. I have a few left over to make steps on the back. Very pleased and happy. May order more for an outdoor shower project!" —Adazzle"Bought these in 2016, and with one application of teak oil per year, they still look great in 2023. They have been subjected to full weather for 7 years and still look amazing. Lightly power wash them once a year to remove grime, takes about 30 min." —ZGet 10 square feet from Amazon for $78.01. A wildlife ring firepit if loving the great outdoors is part of your personality. Soooo many firepit designs are an afterthought, so try this one if you want to add a little pizzazz. FiveMetalDesign is a Wisconsin-based small business creating metal ring fire pits featuring intricate designs. Promising review: "This is EVERYTHING they said it would be. Always hard to tell if something will look as amazing as the picture. In this case it's as great or better than the picture. Fast delivery, great friendly service! I highly recommend this company. Best purchase yet on Etsy!" —pjmklm2004 Get it from FiveMetalDesign on Etsy for $196+ (available in four sizes). An outdoor ceiling fan for adding a bit of tropical flair to your space while providing you with that island breeze you so desperately seek in the warmer months. Promising review: 'The fan is a beautiful color and adds a coastal feel to my front porch. It looks great while keeping me cool!' —MirandaGet it from Wayfair for $279 (available in three colors). Me to my neighbors after I *add everything to cart*: The reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
