GOATED

The term "goated" comes from the slang term GOAT (Greatest Of All Time). It is used to acknowledge exceptional performance or skill, or to say that something is really good. The phrase works in both online spaces (social media comments, Discord, gaming chats, etc.) and face-to-face conversations. It's generally positive and enthusiastic, though like many slang terms, context and tone matter for how it's received. It is often accompanied by the goat emoji:

Gen Z tends to use "goated" more frequently and naturally in both text and speech, often dropping it casually in conversations. Millennials use it too, but sometimes more self-consciously or when trying to connect with younger slang. The term has become mainstream enough that even Boomers and Gen X recognize it, though they might not use it as naturally in conversation.

"Goated" is a slang term. Slang is casual language made up of words, phrases, and expressions that are usually tied to specific situations or certain groups of people. It is the unofficial vocabulary that develops naturally within communities - whether that's your friend group, online spaces, or specific subcultures. It's the kind of language that feels authentic and relatable within those circles, but might not hit the same way (or even make sense) outside of them. You wouldn't really use it in formal settings like work presentations or college essays.