The TikTok community’s knack for shaping the English language continues with the creation of new terms that eventually merge into mainstream language. The term “glazing” is now one such trendy hashtag. Essentially, ‘glazing’ refers to the act of excessively praising or hyping a person or product to the point that it becomes embarrassingly cringeworthy.
The term made its journey from Twitch, where it was first used by a streamer named Kai Cenat, into the world of TikTok, where it has now garnered significant popularity. As it happens with many new terms on the internet, the term also made its way to Urban Dictionary, solidifying its place in the cyber world’s lexicon. Other colloquial synonyms for ‘glazing’, interestingly, include terms like “meat riding” or “d*ck riding,” although ‘glazing’ has a sweeter, more socially acceptable connotation.
What does it look like when something or someone is being ‘glazed’? You can probably spot some cringe-inducing overhype around an average or mid-level thing, sometimes accompanied by donut-themed TikToks as an amusing visual representation. However, donuts aren’t always part of this phenomenon. The trend has reached a point where individuals overly praising others are referred to as ‘glazers’, a label generally considered reproachful.
The term embodies the organic, living nature of language, highlighting how speech evolves in tandem with our digital lives. As with the evolution of any new phrase or term, especially within the fast-paced world of social media, the origins of ‘glazing’ can be traced back to user-generated content and its subsequent viral spread. This morphing and creation of new terms underscore how platforms like TikTok serve as a fertile ground for linguistic innovation. With each scroll or click, our interactive cyber world cultivates and shapes new words, providing a fresh depth. The new expression “glazing” is an apt example of the linguistic creativity of the digital age.
