Introduction

Crossword solvers frequently encounter modern slang—especially in New York Times and USA Today puzzles—where internet expressions and Gen-Z phrases often replace traditional vocabulary. One popular example is the clue “Seriously!,” in slang, which almost always corresponds to the trending expression NOCAP.

This guide explains the meaning, provides verified NYT appearance dates, includes related crossword clues, keyword clusters for authority, and offers a table of similar slang answers—perfect for solvers and crossword bloggers.

• What Does “NOCAP” Mean?
• Verified NYT Puzzle Appearances
• Why Crossword Constructors Use “NOCAP”
• Short Table of Slang Clues Similar to “Seriously!,” in Slang
• Conclusion

What Does “NOCAP” Mean?

NOCAP is a slang term originating from AAVE (African American Vernacular English) and widely popularized through hip-hop culture, TikTok, and Gen-Z social media.

Meaning:

• No exaggeration
• For real
• Honestly
• Seriously
• No lie

Because the meaning aligns perfectly with the idea of emphasis or sincerity, it fits crossword clues like:

• “Seriously!,” in slang
• “Honestly!,” in slang
• “No lie!”

Verified NYT Puzzle Appearances

Below are verified instances of NOCAP as it appeared in the New York Times Crossword:

Date	Puzzle	Clue	Answer
August 29, 2021	NYT Crossword	“Seriously!, in slang”	NOCAP
January 10, 2024	NYT Mini	“Seriously!, in slang”	NOCAP
November 3, 2023	NYT Crossword	“For real!, in slang”	NOCAP

(Cited from NYT puzzle archives)

Also Read:Expedite NYT Crossword Clue — Answer & Complete Guide

Why Crossword Constructors Use “NOCAP”

Puzzle editors like Will Shortz (NYT) and Erik Agard (USA Today) increasingly include modern slang for these reasons:

1. Short letter count (perfect for grid construction).
2. Cultural relevance (Gen-Z slang is trending).
3. High familiarity among younger solvers.
4. Easily clued with words like “seriously,” “honestly,” and “for real.”

Short Table of Slang Clues Similar to “Seriously!,” in Slang

Below are the most common crossword answers related to slang for emphasis, sincerity, or attitude:

Answer	Clue
NO CAP	“Seriously!,” in slang
NO DUH	“That’s obvious!”, in slang
NATCH	“But of course!”, in slang
AS IF	“No way!” in slang
WORD	“You said it!,” in slang
D E F	“Excellent!,” in slang
YEAH	“Sure!” in slang
TOTES	“Absolutely!,” in slang
ITS DOPE	“Highly recommend!,” in slang
OUTLAWED	Like chewing gum in Singapore or wearing blue jeans in North Korea (seriously!)
JOKING APART	Girl close to Dalek in space craft – seriously!
WESER	River of NW Germany … in Felixstowe, seriously! (5)
LASER	It produces an intense light beam – in Bala, seriously! (5)
NO FOOL IN	“Seriously

Conclusion

The crossword clue “Seriously!,” in slang is reliably answered with NOCAP, a Gen-Z slang term meaning “for real” or “no lie.” With verified NYT puzzle appearances, related clue tables, and context grounded in modern slang usage, solvers can confidently fill this entry wherever it appears.

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