Ick

People couldn't stop sharing it because it perfectly captures that relatable moment of feeling turned off by someone you once liked — it's all about the shared cringe! The humor and honesty behind the 'ick' made it a go-to for anyone who's ever had a sudden change of heart.

A Gen Z slang term for that cringe-worthy feeling when someone or something gives you major romantic disgust.

“

I just got the ick.

— This phrase is often used in TikTok videos where users recount a moment that turned them off from someone they liked, making it a relatable catchphrase.

'Ick' is used in conversations and social media posts to describe those cringe moments that make you rethink your attraction to someone. For example, someone might say, 'I thought he was cute until I saw him eat spaghetti — total ick!'

The term 'ick' started gaining traction on TikTok around late 2020, particularly in videos where users shared their personal 'icks' about partners or crushes. It became a way to express that sudden, often irrational, disgust that can ruin a romantic vibe.

1. 2020-11The term 'ick' starts trending on TikTok as users share their sudden romantic disgust experiences.
2. 2021-03The hashtag #IckChallenge goes viral, prompting users to post their own 'ick' moments.
3. 2021-09Influencers begin using 'ick' in their content, solidifying its place in Gen Z slang.

The term exploded on TikTok, with countless videos dedicated to sharing 'icks' that went viral, leading to memes and discussions on Twitter and Instagram. By 2021, it was everywhere, with influencers and everyday users alike sharing their own experiences.