Entering a hyper-focused state to get something done. Implies shutting out distractions and grinding. Announced on group chats the night before a big exam, deadline, or creative project. The announcement itself is often the last productive act of the evening.
"Day 1 of locking in: told the group chat, scrolled TikTok, made a playlist, did nothing."
locking in means Entering a hyper-focused state to get something done. It's mostly used on TikTok and short-form video. It's casual and generally safe with friends and online. It's standard online vocabulary; nothing inherently concerning about hearing it.
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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The words defining how Gen Z and TikTok talk right now — from rizz and aura to skibidi, delulu, and the ick. Updated as fast as the trends move.
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