ALGOSPEAK

What Does ALGOSPEAK Mean?

The Quick Answer

ALGOSPEAK is the changing of words to avoid automated content moderation systems.

More Detail...

Algospeak is a combination of the words "algorithm" and "speak." It refers to the abbreviation, deliberate misspelling, or substitution of words in order to bypass automated content moderation systems on chat forums, comment sections and, especially, on social media networks, such as as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, etc. The use of words deemed offensive or inappropriate by automated algorithms can lead to posts being deleted, or users being suspended or even banned. For this reason, a whole new vocabulary of algospeak has developed, specifically designed to avoid triggering the algorithms. However, while automated filters are intended to prevent users from saying things they shouldn't, they often just prompt users to engage in algospeak instead. Popular examples of algospeak include:

304 = Prostitute or Promiscuous Woman.
@N4L = Anal.
Accountant = Sex Worker.
Corn = Porn.
Cornucopia = Homophobia.
Eggplant = Penis.
Le$bean/ Le Dollar Bean / Le Dollar Sign Bean = Lesbian.
Leg Booty = LGBT.
Nip Nops = Nipples.
SA = Sexual Assault.
Saltine = White Person.
Secks = Sex.
Seggs = Sex.
Spicy Eggplant = Vibrator.
Swimmers = Vaccinated People.
Unalive = Dead.

Image for ALGOSPEAK

When I write ALGOSPEAK, I mean this:

Algospeak is used to avoid automated content moderation.

Summary of Key Points

"Changing of Words to Avoid Automated Content Moderation" is, by far, the most common meaning for ALGOSPEAK when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)