The word "slay" has multiple meanings depending on the context:
- Traditionally, "slay" means to kill a person or animal, often violently
- Informally, especially in modern slang, "slay" means to do something spectacularly well or to impress greatly. For example, someone might say "She slayed that performance," meaning she did exceptionally well
- It can also be used as a term of encouragement or agreement, like saying "Yes, slay!" to show support or admiration
- The slang usage of "slay" originated in the African American LGBTQ+ ballroom culture, where it meant to perform impressively or to look fashionable and confident. This usage gained mainstream popularity through media like RuPaul's Drag Race and Beyoncé's song "Formation"
- Additionally, "slay" can mean to make someone laugh a lot, akin to "dying of laughter," a meaning dating back to the 1600s but less common today
In summary, while "slay" originally referred to killing, its contemporary slang usage primarily means to excel, impress, or look fabulous, especially in performance, fashion, or social contexts
