What Does “Twin” Mean in Gen Z Slang? Here's the Tea

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Explore how to use this term of endearment and who counts as a “twin”

Co-authored by Elaine Heredia, BA

Last Updated: October 28, 2025 Fact Checked

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“Twin” Slang Meaning

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Where does it come from?

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Why People Say It

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When to Use It

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More Gen Z Slang

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In Gen Z world, a twin isn’t just an identical sibling. It’s a slang term of endearment for a super close friend you have a deep bond with, and we’re here to explain exactly what it means and when to say it to sound like a natural Gen Z-er. Keep scrolling to learn more!

“Twin” Slang Meaning

“Twin” is a Gen Z slang term of endearment for a very close friend. A person saying, “Hey, twin!” or “How are you, twin?” to someone means they feel a strong connection to that person, regardless of whether they're actually blood-related. It's typically used for platonic friendships, not romantic relationships.

Section 1 of 5:

What is the slang meaning of “twin”?

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“Twin” is a slang term of affection used for very close friends. It's similar to other Gen Z slang terms like “bro” or “fam.” In this context, you don't have to be related to the other person to call them your “twin”—you just have to have a super deep bond that connects you, almost like real twin siblings.
- Some people use “twin” for a close friend who's similar to them in some way. They might behave alike, look alike, or have many of the same thoughts, opinions, and beliefs.^{[1]
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Section 2 of 5:

Where does “twin” come from?

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“Twin” originated as a greeting among people who live in Atlanta, GA. According to some sources, “twin” was first used as a term of endearment by gang members in the city of Atlanta, GA, in the United States. By 2019, it had spread in popularity throughout the entire city. Since then, Gen Z has adopted it as a slang term, which is why you might have heard it spoken in casual conversation or used in viral TikToks.
- Instagram user @itsavibe commented in this video from January 15, 2025, that Gen Z youth were calling each other “twin” in Rhode Island. It surprised him because he thought the slang term was only popular in Atlanta.

Section 3 of 5:

Why do people call their friend “twin”?

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If a friend calls you “twin,” that may mean they feel a strong connection to you. They may even feel that you're their best friend. Some sources claim that your “twin” is your “ride or die” friend. This means you trust each other deeply and are always available to have fun with or support each other in times of need.
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Someone may call you “twin” if you're wearing the same or similar outfits. They might also say, “We're twinning!” In this context, they're saying it simply because you're wearing matching clothes in the same way that many real twins do.
- On social media, you might see the phrase “twinning” accompanied by the twin emoji: 👯

Section 4 of 5:

When to Use “Twin” in Conversation

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Say “twin” when you're greeting a friend you think is close to you. For example, if you're meeting your best friend for lunch, when you see them, say, “Hey, twin! What's good?” If you want to compliment their outfit, you can say, “Nice outfit, twin!” Here are some other examples of ways to use "twin" in a greeting.
- “What's up, twin?”
- “Long time no see, twin!”
- “Hey, twin, I missed you!”
- “How's my twin doing?”
When your BFF posts a new reel or a stunning selfie, leave a comment like “Look at my twin! 😍” or “My twin knows what’s up!” This is a fun way to show them some love (and announce your twin-ness to the world). You can also post a photo of you two with a caption like “All smiles when the twin is around!” or “Friends that twin together win together.”