What Does 'No Cap' And 'Cap' Mean? The Gen Z Slang Terms Explained

The modern way to explicitly emphasize that you're not lying and are completely and utterly serious, "no cap" is an expression that entered slang a long time ago, but only recently managed to cement its place in the internet's vocabulary.

So, what exactly do "no cap" and "cap" mean, where did these originate and how can you use them? Find it all in our explainer on these Zoomer slang terms below.

What Do "No Cap" and "Cap" Mean?

Essentially, "no cap" is a direct substitute for "no lie" or "for real," usually added at the end of the sentence to emphasize that you're not pulling one's leg. Vice versa, "cap" has been used as an alternative for "lie."

Where Do "No Cap" and "Cap" Come From?

The history of "cap" starts with the expression "high capping," meaning "exaggerating your status, pretending to have more than you have," which was first used in pop culture in the 1989 song by Willie D and appeared in a number of tracks by Geto Boys, UGK and other rappers and bands.

Put up the mother fucking steel and chill
Before that high-cappin' shit get you killed

The expression was likely popularized by the 2017 Migos song "Deadz" in which Quavo raps the phrase, after which it started appearing in multiple songs by Atlanta rappers.

No for real, no cap,
My money long like anaconda
No for real, no cap,
I keep a sack like Sapp and Tucker

"No Cap" Usage In Memes

In memes, the phrase has most often been used ironically to make fun of Gen Z slang and those who use it. One of the most popular memes in which the phrase is heavily used is the Zoomerification meme, which involves giving various people and characters a Broccoli haircut and adding Gen Z slang to their catchphrases.

Examples of "No Cap" and "Cap" in a Sentence

• No he really did that, I saw it with my own eyes, no cap!
• I originally bought it for $2000 but I'll sell it to you for half that, no cap.
• That's cap, quit bullshitting.

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For the full history of "No Cap," be sure to check out our entry here for even more information.