The latest buzz across the web and classrooms has now been officially crowned as the standout term of the year.
Dictionary.com declared “67” (also known as “6-7” or “six-seven”) as its 2025 word of the year on Wednesday.
This phrase is described by the organization as “classic brainrot slang,” characterized by its intentionally nonsensical nature and emphasis on embracing absurdity.
To put it simply, “6-7” can be interpreted as meaning “so-so,” “ambiguous,” or even conveying no specific message at all.
In lively group settings like sports events or lately in classrooms, individuals often enthusiastically shout “6-7” while making a corresponding raised-palms gesture, much to the dismay of many teachers.
Steve Johnson, the director of lexicography for the Dictionary Media Group, noted in a press release that “67” is unique for being one of the few words of the year that doubles as an interjection.
This viral term is making its way through classrooms, disrupting lessons. But what does it really mean?
The exact origins of the term remain unclear, yet it is often linked back to the 2024 track Doot Doot (6 7) by Skrilla or viral video edits featuring NBA player LaMelo Ball, recognized in part for his towering height of six feet seven inches.
The announcement of “67” as the word of the year by Dictionary.com took many by surprise online, with several pointing out the irony of designating a number or seemingly meaningless phrase as the word of the year.
One post on X by @Zigzaglawyer with over 297,000 likes exclaimed, “ITS NOT EVEN A WORD.”
Comedian Gianmarco Soresi shared his sentiment on X, writing, “I can feel myself turn into an old man.”
Regarding the rationale behind the selection, Johnson stated that the term reflects the prevalent brainrot culture that has infiltrated both online spaces and real-life interactions. Johnson emphasized, “Few slang terms capture the cultural essence of 2025 as aptly as 67. It combines elements of an inside joke, social cue, and performance.”
On social platforms, there are numerous videos showcasing people executing handshakes spelling out “6-7,” educators integrating the term into their curriculum, artists creating food or artwork in the shape of “6-7,” and even a takeaway joint erupting in joy when order number “6-7” is called. The term even made an appearance in a recent South Park episode.