I’VE GOT A TEXT!
Tonight there will be a recoupling at the fire pit. It is what it is.
Don’t know what I’m talking about? This is Love Island speak – the lingo used on one of the UK’s most popular reality TV shows.
With around 3 million viewers tuning in for the first episode of Season 8, Love Island is back for summer 2022.
Whether you love it or loathe it, there’s no denying that Love Island has made its mark on popular culture – with a unique terminology that has infiltrated everyday slang.
As a writer, I’m always interested in changing language trends. In a previous blog post, I wrote about how the Covid era introduced a whole raft of new terminology that quickly became accepted into everyday life.
So here’s a quick rundown of the most popular words and phrases you’ll hear on Love Island this year.
Love Island Dictionary 2022
“Bombshells”
Once the original cast (known as the OGs) have been established in the villa, a succession of new entrants – known as bombshells – are gradually introduced with the aim of “turning the heads” of existing couples.
“Coupled up”
When an Islander is officially in a “couple” with another girl/boy. This means they are allowed to share a bed in the villa.
“Crack on”
To pursue a relationship with someone.
“Do bits”
As featured in the 2018 season, “doing bits” refers to various levels of sexual activity between the Islanders.
“Factor 50”
In relation to flirting, this means someone is “laying it on thick” i.e. SPF Factor 50 sunscreen.
“Get the ick”
When your partner repulses you or makes you cringe, and as a result you’re no longer attracted to them – e.g. “He keeps picking his toes and now I’ve got the ick”.
“Get to know you”
Wanting to “get to know” a person means you are interested in pursuing a potential romantic relationship with them. This usually involves arranging one-on-one chats to see if there’s any romantic spark.
“Grafting”
Working hard to get the attention/affection of the person you’re interested in, such as making them a special breakfast.
“Gravitating towards you”
When you feel particularly drawn to someone in a romantic way and find yourself wanting to be around them all the time.
“It is what it is”
Unquestionably the phrase of the series, this is another way of saying “that’s just how it is” i.e. a general acceptance of the current situation.
“Melt”
Someone who is acting in a pathetically soppy way over a girl/boy.
“Muggy/Mugged off”
If someone feels “mugged off”, they feel they’ve been taken advantage of, taken for a fool, or deceived in some way – e.g. “I can’t believe he mugged me off like that. That’s so muggy. I feel like a right mug”.
“My head’s been turned”
When Islanders find themselves being attracted to someone else (particularly new entrants to the villa). This phrase can also be used to demonstrate their loyalty, by promising their head “won’t be turned”.
“My type on paper”
Someone who, in theory, ticks all the boxes of qualities you’re looking for in a romantic partner – e.g. “He’s tall, dark, and handsome – my type on paper”.
“Not gonna lie”
Although not unique to Love Island, this phrase is usually heard every few minutes on the show and means “to be honest” – e.g. “Not gonna lie to you, mate, I’m fuming”.
“Not really feeling it”
When you’re having doubts about a romantic connection – e.g. “We’ve been coupled up for a week now, but I’m not really feeling it”.
“Pied”
Rejected or dumped.
“Recoupling”
When the Islanders are gathered around the fire pit to choose which girl/boy they would like to couple up with. They may choose to stick with their existing partner or choose somebody else. This usually happens on a weekly basis.
“Shoot your shot”
Taking the opportunity to “go for it” – usually to tell someone you’re attracted to them with the hope of pursuing a relationship.
“What you saying?”
A way of asking how someone is or what they are currently thinking.
“Where’s your head at?”
A common phrase used to ask how an Islander is currently feeling in regards to romantic relationships.
Can you think of any that I’ve missed? 🙂
About the author
I'm a freelance copywriter and proofreader based in Stafford (Staffordshire) in the UK. With over 20 years' experience in the professional beauty industry, I specialise in writing about skincare, nails, aromatherapy, holistic health, and all aspects of beauty and wellness. Since 2012, I've worked with businesses and individuals around the world to create original, engaging copy – from website content to product descriptions, blog posts, and ebooks. Get in touch to see how I can help you with copywriting, editing, and proofreading – whether it's writing from scratch or improving what you've already written. For more information, please see my Services page.