Buzz
Discover the social media trends behind these popular slang expressions.
'You lost aura points.' 'I’m auromaxxing.' 'That’s a positive aura.' Wait, what? You’ve probably encountered these phrases online, but what do they actually mean? 'Aura' is a slang term that took off in 2024 on TikTok. Though it sparked various trends, it generally describes someone who is cool or exudes confident energy. We spoke with content creator Jessica Lizarraga to break down everything there is to know about TikTok's 'aura' and 'aura points' trends. We’ll also share tips on how you can join the fun and use the term yourself!
'Aura' Slang Explanation
'Aura' is a playful and lighthearted way of assessing someone's level of 'coolness' on social media. Those with high 'aura points' are seen as cool, while those with fewer 'aura points' are not. A person with a strong 'aura' is confident and someone others aspire to be like.
How to Participate
What does 'aura' represent?
What are 'aura points'?
'Aura points' are a fun way to measure how cool someone is. 'Adding or losing aura points is a way to rate someone's level of coolness (or lack of it),' explains Lizarraga. If someone racks up plenty of 'aura points,' they're considered super cool and someone you'd like to emulate. On the other hand, having few or zero 'aura points' means they’re not very cool. On TikTok, users either give or take points based on their actions and awkward moments. The more 'aura points' you have, the cooler you're seen as being.
- For example, you might lose 100 aura points for dropping your lunch tray, but you could earn 100 points for showing off a fresh new outfit.
- Users grant or take away points in the comments of posts and videos, but keep in mind, these points don’t actually mean anything. It’s all in good fun and doesn’t determine how amazing you truly are!
- Want to know how many 'aura points' you have? Take this quiz!
Popular 'Aura' Social Media Trends (And How You Can Join In)
'How many aura points did I lose?' This is one of the most viral 'aura' trends you’ll likely spot on your TikTok FYP. Users share awkward or cringe-worthy moments and ask their followers how many 'aura points' they lost as a result.
- For example, walking into school with new kicks might earn you 2,000 aura points, but strolling around with your backpack unzipped could cost you 600 points.
- Users also share dating red flags, asking how many 'aura points' the other person lost.
- How to participate: Post a video sharing a time you felt uncool or awkward, and don’t forget to add the trend’s question using the text feature! For instance, you could write, 'How many aura points did I lose when I hit 'reply all' instead of just forwarding the email.'
- Check out this example from TikToker @alyssamckayyy.
'Auramaxxing' When someone is 'auramaxxing,' they’re aiming to boost their aura and become cooler. As Lizarraga puts it, 'A core aspect of aura is unspoken confidence, showing rather than telling.' TikTok users share videos showcasing their personal growth, whether it’s hitting the gym, upgrading their wardrobe, or simply talking less.
- How to join the trend: Create a video highlighting what you’re doing to better yourself! Perhaps it’s having a nutritious breakfast daily or diving into a self-help book.
- Check out this example from TikToker @ratisupremacy.
'Define aura' Do you follow someone who just exudes confidence? If so, they’ve probably received plenty of 'define aura' comments on their social media. This phrase, popular among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, essentially means, 'If you looked up ‘cool’ in the dictionary, you’d see their picture.'
- How to join the trend: Leave a 'define aura' comment on a post from a friend or celebrity you think is absolutely owning the game.
- Here’s an example from TikToker @cosmitxs.
'Aura' Origins & History
The true origin of the term 'aura' remains a mystery. Unlike many social media trends, 'aura' and 'aura points' don’t have a specific historical beginning, but there are some theories. Some believe it first emerged on Twitter in 2023, particularly within soccer and basketball communities.
- However, given that 'aura' is already a well-known spiritual term for 'energy,' others think the concept spread to social media alongside Gen Z and Gen Alpha’s growing interest in astrology and zodiac signs.
Alternative 'Aura' Definitions
In football, 'aura' refers to the powerful energy a player exudes. A player with a strong 'aura' gives off an air of confidence. As Lizarraga puts it, 'Athletes with a commanding presence are said to have aura, which can include a self-concept of “I am the best” or “I dominate this game.”' In short, a player with 'aura' or 'the most aura' exudes effortless confidence.
- Football fans often say players like Antonio Brown, Cam Newton, Stefon Diggs, Sauce Gardener, and Deion Sanders all possess 'aura.'
- 'Aura' as slang isn’t exclusive to football—it applies to any sport!
Spiritually, an 'aura' is an invisible energy field surrounding the body. It’s believed that the energy or vibrations you emit create an 'aura' that surrounds you. This aura shifts in color and shape based on your mood, health, and experiences. The color(s) your aura emits can provide insights into your personality and how you interact with the world. For example:
- A red aura represents confidence, passion, and frustration.
- An orange aura signifies creativity, sensuality, and uncertainty.
- A yellow aura reflects happiness, leadership, and self-criticism.
- A green aura shows love, peace, and jealousy.
- A blue aura conveys honesty, calmness, and wisdom.
- A purple aura symbolizes ambition, connection, and power.
- A white aura suggests compassion, receptivity, and spirituality.
- Want to discover your aura color? Take this quiz!
Other Popular Social Media Slang
Interested in learning more about Gen Z slang? You’re in the right place! Here are some popular Gen Z slang terms you’re likely to encounter on social media:
- Bussin: Something that’s really good
- Cap: Lying or faking
- Cheugy: Someone or something that’s outdated or trying too hard
- Cooked: Something or someone that’s done or exhausted
- Gyatt: An expression of admiration or excitement (usually referring to someone’s backside)
- Heated: Angry or frustrated
- Rizz: Charisma or charm
- Sus: Something that’s suspicious
