delulu
"Delulu" is a playful, slang abbreviation of the word "delusional." It refers to someone who holds onto unrealistic, overly optimistic, or fantasy-based beliefs, particularly regarding romantic interests or personal success. The mental image is of a person living in their own little world, choosing to ignore reality in favor of a "manifested" outcome that likely won't happen. While it originated in K-pop fandom culture to describe fans who believed they were dating their favorite idols, it is now used broadly in casual conversation. It is almost always used in a lighthearted, self-deprecating, or humorous way. You might call yourself "delulu" for thinking you’ll win the lottery or for believing your crush is definitely going to text you back any second.
In conversation
Discussing a crush
I’m convinced he’s going to ask me out today.
I’m convinced he’s going to ask me out today.
Girl, you are being so delulu right now. He hasn't even looked at you.
Girl, you are being so delulu right now. He hasn't even looked at you.
Used to gently point out that someone's expectations are unrealistic.
Planning a dream scenario
If I just study for one hour, I can totally pass this final.
If I just study for one hour, I can totally pass this final.
That is some serious delulu energy, but I admire the optimism.
That is some serious delulu energy, but I admire the optimism.
Shows how 'delulu' can be used to describe a mindset rather than just a person.
Examples
I know it's delulu to think I'll become a billionaire by next year.
I know it's delulu to think I'll become a billionaire by next year.
Don't be delulu; he isn't going to show up to your party uninvited.
Don't be delulu; he isn't going to show up to your party uninvited.
Sometimes a little bit of delulu is the only thing that keeps me motivated through the work week.
Sometimes a little bit of delulu is the only thing that keeps me motivated through the work week.
