What does Rizz mean?
Rizz is charm that helps someone attract romantic interest. It usually describes how a person carries a conversation or makes an impression.
Also written: rizz up · unspoken rizz
DOCUMENTED IN 2023
Oxford selected rizz as its 2023 Word of the Year. December 2023 falls within this collection’s rolling three-year window.
Read the dated evidence · Explore other viral expressionsThe meaning
Someone with rizz can make flirting look easy through wit, confidence, or appealing behavior. The word can describe a quality someone has, while rizz up describes trying to charm another person. It is usually playful praise, though friends can use it sarcastically after an awkward attempt.
What’s the tone?
Playful, admiring, or teasing.
When and how to use it
Use it in casual conversation about flirting or beneath a clip where someone makes a confident introduction. A comment about someone's rizz evaluates their social charm; it does not tell you whether another person actually wants a relationship. Read the interaction before assuming the compliment is sincere.
In a conversation
Original examples to illustrate the expression.
You remembered their favorite book? That's some rizz.
I was just making conversation.
Apparently your book recommendations are working.
Easy to misread
Rizz is narrower than general talent or intelligence. Being attractive can help an impression, but the word often emphasizes charm rather than appearance alone.
A little context
Dictionary publishers document the noun and the related flirting verb. The spelling is commonly associated with charisma, but an exact invention story is unnecessary to understand its everyday use.
Sources & further reading
These sources support the explanation. The dialogue above is original.
- Rizz — definitionCambridge Dictionary · Checked Oct 5, 2026
Defines attracting attention and romantic interest, including the verb.
- Rizz — slang meaningDictionary.com · Checked Oct 5, 2026
Explains verbal charm, the noun, rizz up, and unspoken rizz.
- Rizz: Oxford Word of the Year 2023Oxford University Press · Checked Oct 6, 2026
Documents the dated cultural milestone and corroborates the core meaning.
Prepared with AI assistance and automated quality checks. Meanings can vary by context. Read our editorial policy.