If you’re wondering what “rizz” means, you’re not alone — particularly if you’re a generation or so older than Gen Z. “Rizz” is a colloquial word defined as style, charm, or attractiveness. It’s believed to have been taken from the middle of the word “charisma,” much like “fridge” derives from refrigerator. In 2023, rizz beat out swiftie (synonymous with Taylor Swift fans) for Word of the Year. The term is also associated with the 1978 film Grease and the enduring appeal of Stockard Channing’s role as Betty “Rizz” Rizzo, the independent and clued-in icon from the musical. So, when you boil it all down, what exactly is “rizz?” Consider the famous exchange between John Travolta’s Danny Zuko and Rizzo in Grease:
Danny: “You’re looking good, Rizz.”
Rizzo: “Eat your heart out.”
That, as they say, is rizz.
