Crash Out

Definition:

Having an intense / disproportionate emotional reaction to something or making an impulsive / reckless decision without regard for consequences

Context:

Originally emerging from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), the modern use of the phrase "crash out" gained initial popularity from Baton Rouge-based hip-hop artist & rapper NBA YoungBoy in 2017, before becoming adopted widely by Gen Z through platforms like TikTok in early 2024. The phrase most commonly functions as a verb ("he's about to crash out"), but it can also be used to describe a person for whom such reaction is common ("he's a crashout").

"Crashing out" in a serious context describes a state like "flipping out" but with extra intensity and potential for extreme action & consequences (e.g. finally snapping, having an outburst/meltdown, or "seeing red"). However, Gen Z has lightened the term's usage over time to be more humorous & self-aware, often applying it ironically to minor emotional reactions or exaggerated responses to everyday situations (e.g. a streaming platform removing a show, an incorrect restaurant order, etc.)