Manoj Bajpayee Explains Gen Z Slang: From ‘Benching’ to ‘Pookie’

Gen Z has introduced a wave of new slang words that often leave older generations puzzled. In a recent interview, actor Manoj Bajpayee humorously attempted to explain some of these terms, bringing both laughter and clarity to the discussion.

‘Benching’: Not Just Sitting on a Bench
When asked about the meaning of ‘benching,’ Bajpayee jokingly said it simply referred to “those who sit on a bench.” The audience laughed, but the explanation was not accurate. The host clarified that in modern Gen Z slang, ‘benching’ describes a relationship scenario where someone keeps another person on hold—showing interest but avoiding commitment. Essentially, the person is treated as a “side option,” contacted only when the other feels lonely or needs emotional support, while being ignored otherwise.

Understanding ‘Pookie’
In another discussion, Bajpayee admitted he struggles to communicate with Gen Z due to unfamiliar slang. The host explained ‘pookie’ as a term for someone or something “cute.” For example, a person displaying adorable behavior may be called a ‘pookie.’

Other Popular Gen Z Slang Words

• Boujee: Used to describe someone or something fancy, luxurious, or unique.
• Simp: Refers to a person who goes to great lengths to please someone they have romantic interest in, often crossing personal boundaries.
• YOLO: Short for “You Only Live Once,” a term used to justify living life boldly and embracing experiences.
• TFW: Stands for “That Feeling When,” used to express a relatable emotion in a specific moment. For example, getting an early Friday off from work might be captioned with TFW.

These slang words reflect how language evolves with each generation. While humorous for some, understanding them can help bridge communication gaps between older and younger generations.