yeet

Yeet is a slang term that functions as an interjection and a verb. As an interjection it expresses excitement, approval, or triumph, often at a moment of action. As a verb it means to throw something with force, frequently in a rapid, sweeping motion; the object is typically discarded or sent flying. The past tense is yeeted, the present participle yeeting, and it has also been used as a noun in some contexts.

Origin and spread: The exact origins are uncertain, but the term emerged from online youth culture and African American Vernacular English and gained prominence on social media in the mid-2010s, notably through short video platforms such as Vine. A viral video and accompanying gesture helped popularize the exclamation, after which yeet spread across memes, games, and everyday slang.

Usage and scope: Yeet has become widespread among online communities and is used in various contexts beyond throwing objects, including reactions to surprising outcomes, achievements, or blurting enthusiasms in texts and captions.

Variants and cultural impact: The meme also spawned phrases and jokes such as yeet as a general exclamation, as well as creative remixes and memes. Its rapid spread illustrates how short, performative actions in video culture can drive new words into broad use.