With every generation, new words and phrases become trendy while others slowly fade into oblivion. Today, we share some of the most iconic slang from the Baby Boomer era and their meanings.
Groovy
This classic slang word described something as “cool” or “exciting.” Its origins date back to the 1960s, and hippies often used it.
Hang Ten
This phrase means “to surf with all ten toes touching the board”—a skill that requires a lot of practice and patience! It was popularized in surfing culture during the 1950s and 1960s.
Far Out
This phrase describes something as “excellent” or “awesome.”
Split
Unlike today’s slang meaning, this phrase meant to leave quickly—such as when someone was in a rush to go somewhere.
Catch Some Zs
This phrase meant trying to get some sleep, usually after doing something tiring or strenuous.
Hippie Chick
This expression was used to describe a female who followed the hippie lifestyle.
Dig It
This phrase means to understand something or to have an appreciation for it.
Right On
This phrase meant “yes” or “agreed” and was similar to the modern phrase “You got it!”
Hang Loose
This slang means to remain calm and relaxed in a situation or conversation.
Gnarly
Back then, this slang term was used to describe something as “dangerous” or “scary.”
Chill Out
This phrase is an invitation to take it easy and relax.
Buzz Off
This phrase means to “go away” or leave someone alone.
What’s Your Bag?
This slang had an unusual meaning that won’t make much sense to millennials and Gen Zers. At the time, it meant, what’s your problem?
Cat
‘A cat in those days didn’t only refer to the furry animals we all know and love. It was used to describe someone as cool or hip.
Flip a Wig
This expression is used when someone becomes angry or loses their cool.
Peace Out
This phrase was a way to bid someone farewell in a cool and hip way. Some people still use it to this day!
Threads
This term was used to describe clothing, particularly stylish or expensive outfits.
Square
This slang meant to describe someone as boring or uncool.
Padiddle
This slang term has an interesting origin story. It was first used to describe a hypothetical situation in which someone put out their car’s headlights with their fingers, considered a fun game in the Baby Boomer era.
Dropped a Dime
To make a phone call in those days, you had to drop coins into the phone’s coin slot. So when someone said they dropped a dime, they made a phone call.
Boob Tube
This slang referred to the television—a common source of entertainment for Baby Boomers.
Burn Rubber
This phrase means to drive fast and leave rubber marks on the road in the process.
Dish Out/Dish It Up
This slang phrase means to give out something like food or advice.
Psyched
This slang word means excitement or eagerness about an event or situation.
Gassed Up
It means to feel proud or confident after achieving something. It can also mean to be bragging or boastful.
Gimme Some Skin
This phrase is an invitation to give someone a high-five, fist bump, or hug as a sign of friendship.
Chrome Dome
This was an affectionate way to refer to a bald person.
Scratch
This slang term means money.
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