Social
Clout
Social influence, status, or fame — particularly online. Having clout means being well-known or respected in a particular online community.
How kids use it
"Clout chasing" means doing things purely for attention or followers, sometimes risky or embarrassing things. Teens who chase clout may make poor decisions to gain social media attention.
Is “Clout” something to worry about?
No — "Clout" is ordinary 2026 teen vocabulary, not a warning sign. Knowing it just makes you harder to talk past.
- Use it slightly wrong at dinner. You’ll get an eye-roll and a free vocabulary lesson.
- If you’re seeing it alongside apps you don’t recognize, run the 30-second check Is it safe? checker →