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How '6-7' term originated as teachers vow to kick out kids chanting it in their classrooms

In recent months, the phrase "6, 7" has gained unexpected popularity across social media platforms. If you’ve been out of the loop, it might be hard to make sense of why everyone seems to be using it. Whether it's in TikTok videos or casual exchanges among teens, the term has become so ubiquitous that it’s even led to some teachers banning it from their classrooms. But how did this strange expression come about, and why is it so widely used?

To understand its rise, you first need to look at the cultural context. In a world where memes can go viral almost overnight, “6, 7” is just one of many internet phenomena that have perplexed and entertained the younger generation. Despite its popularity, there’s little to no clear definition of what it actually means - yet that doesn’t seem to stop it from spreading. As an internet trend, it's chaotic and humorous in a way that speaks to a generation's love of playful absurdity.

Origin of the '6, 7' meme

The origin of the “6, 7” meme can be traced to rapper Skrilla, hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In December 2024, he released an unofficial track titled "Doot Doot (6 7)," which included the lyrics, “6, 7, I just bipped right on the highway (bip, bip).” While the track was initially under the radar, it gained significant attention when it was officially released in February 2025. The phrase quickly caught on, sparking memes and viral videos across TikTok.

It didn’t take long for the phrase to gain further traction, particularly after a TikTok creator used Skrilla’s track to joke about NBA star LaMelo Ball. In the video, LaMelo, who is 6’7”, is humorously portrayed as playing like he’s only 6’2”. This humorous twist helped the phrase spread even faster, with athletes and internet personalities jumping on the bandwagon. The "6, 7" meme became a prime example of how Gen Z humor works - chaotic, catchy, and hard to understand for those not in the loop.


Why teachers are banning the phrase in classrooms

While the meme may be perplexing to adults, it has become a staple in the lexicon of many teenagers. The phrase is commonly used as a response to nearly any question, and its catchy, rhythmic quality makes it especially popular. However, its widespread use has also led to some educators taking action.

Teachers, frustrated by the constant repetition of the phrase in classrooms, have started banning students from saying it altogether. This only seems to fuel the meme’s popularity, making it even more appealing to young people who enjoy a bit of rebellion alongside their viral trends.

In many ways, the "6, 7" meme is a symbol of the ever-evolving nature of internet culture. It shows just how quickly something can go from an obscure reference in a rap song to a viral sensation that even the most established figures, such as NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, are scratching their heads over. It’s a perfect example of how the internet can turn anything, no matter how nonsensical, into the next big thing.

Class dismissed!

Featured image credit: Aflo Images / Getty

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Gen Zslang