Snapchat has evolved into one of the most popular social media platforms, particularly among younger users. With its unique features like disappearing messages, Stories, and filters, it has created its own culture and language. This article explores 20 common terms associated with Snapchat that everyone should know to enhance their experience and understanding of the app.
1. Snap
A “Snap” refers to a photo or video that is sent through Snapchat. Unlike traditional messaging, snaps disappear after being viewed, making them ephemeral in nature. Users can add captions, drawings, and various effects to their snaps before sending them to friends or adding them to their Stories.
2. Story
A “Story” is a collection of snaps that can be viewed by friends for 24 hours. Users can add multiple snaps to their Story throughout the day, allowing them to share moments in real time. Friends can view these Stories and reply with their own snaps, creating a more interactive experience.
3. Snap Map
The “Snap Map” is a feature that allows users to see their friends’ locations on a map, provided they have enabled location sharing. Users can view snaps taken around the world, providing a glimpse into what others are doing in various places. This feature can be particularly useful for discovering events or happenings in one’s area.
4. Bitmoji
“Bitmoji” is a personalized emoji that users can create to represent themselves. Users can customize their Bitmoji’s appearance, clothing, and even their actions. These avatars can be sent in snaps or used in Snapchat’s various features, adding a fun and personal touch to interactions.
5. Snap Score
The “Snap Score” is a numerical representation of a user’s activity on Snapchat. It increases with the number of snaps sent and received, as well as other interactions on the platform. Users often check each other’s Snap Scores as a way to gauge engagement on the app.
6. Filters
“Filters” are visual effects that users can apply to their snaps. These can alter the appearance of the photo or video, add overlays, or even provide augmented reality experiences. Snapchat regularly updates its filter options, often including themed filters for holidays or events.
7. Lenses
Similar to filters, “Lenses” offer augmented reality effects that can be applied to the user’s face or surroundings in real time. Users can access various lenses by activating the camera and tapping on the screen. These lenses can include facial transformations, animations, and interactive elements, making snaps more entertaining.
8. Memories
“Memories” is a feature that allows users to save their snaps and Stories for future viewing. Users can create private collections of their favorite snaps, allowing them to look back on moments they may want to remember. This feature enhances the longevity of the otherwise ephemeral content that Snapchat promotes.
9. Streaks
A “Streak” occurs when two users send each other snaps for consecutive days. The number next to the fire emoji indicates how many days the streak has been maintained. Many users aim to keep their streaks going, as it serves as a fun challenge and a way to stay connected with friends.
10. Snapstreak
The term “Snapstreak” refers specifically to the act of maintaining a streak with a particular friend. Users often celebrate significant streaks by sharing special snaps or using creative methods to keep the streak alive, reflecting the importance of these connections within the app.
11. Discover
The “Discover” section is where users can find curated content from various publishers, brands, and influencers. It features a range of articles, videos, and shows that are tailored to the user’s interests. This feature allows users to engage with content beyond their immediate social circle.
12. Private Story
A “Private Story” is a feature that allows users to share snaps with a select group of friends, rather than their entire friend list. This enables users to share more personal or specific content with chosen individuals, enhancing privacy and control over what is shared.
13. Group Chat
“Group Chat” allows users to send snaps and messages to multiple friends simultaneously. This feature promotes interaction among groups, enabling users to share moments collectively and participate in discussions without the need for separate one-on-one conversations.
14. Chat
“Chat” refers to the messaging feature within Snapchat where users can send text messages, photos, and videos to their friends. Unlike snaps, messages in the chat do not disappear immediately and can be viewed later unless deleted by the sender or receiver.
15. Snapcode
A “Snapcode” is a unique QR code that users can scan to add friends on Snapchat. Each user has their own Snapcode, which contains their username and profile information. This feature simplifies the process of adding new friends without needing to search for their username.
16. Spotlight
“Spotlight” is Snapchat’s platform for user-generated content, similar to TikTok. Users can upload short videos that can be discovered by others, and they have the potential to go viral. Spotlight encourages creativity and engagement by allowing users to showcase their talents and interests.
17. My Eyes Only
“My Eyes Only” is a privacy feature within Memories that allows users to lock certain snaps and stories with a password. This ensures that private content remains confidential and can only be accessed by the user, providing an additional layer of security.
18. Snap Map Location
When using Snap Map, users can choose to share their location with friends. The “Snap Map Location” feature allows friends to see each other’s current whereabouts if they have enabled location sharing. Users can also choose to hide their location if they prefer more privacy.
19. Score
The term “Score” often refers to the Snap Score, which is a measurement of a user’s activity on the app. It’s a point system that takes into account various interactions, including the number of snaps sent and received, as well as Stories posted.
20. Trophies
“Trophies” are virtual awards that users can earn by completing specific actions within the app, such as sending a certain number of snaps or using specific features. Trophies are a fun way for users to engage with the app and unlock new experiences as they explore different functionalities.
Conclusion
Understanding these common terms associated with Snapchat is essential for navigating the platform effectively. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned Snapchatter, being familiar with these terms can enhance your experience and allow for more meaningful interactions with friends and content. As Snapchat continues to evolve, staying informed about new features and language will ensure that users can fully enjoy everything the app has to offer.