We have all heard of the phrase, “the good old days.” For some, these days took place in the 1960s. A wide variety of things have come and gone since then. However, there is still one thing that remains, slang words that became popular in that decade and are still used today. The ’60s slang words give us a unique insight into the decade as a whole. It allows us to reflect on the culture of the 1960s and how linguistic changes have created new conversations since then. As we explore the slang words of the ’60s, we can relive the decade and all its eccentricities.
What Really Defines the ‘60s
The ’60s were a decade of transformation and progression. Many social movements took place during this time, such as the civil rights movement, the women’s liberation movement, and the anti-Vietnam War protests. People were outspoken about their beliefs and were determined to make a difference. Moreover, technology was rapidly progressing and the entertainment industry was flourishing. Music, TV, and film were influenced by the 1960s and remain popular in current mainstream culture.
Common Slang Words of the ‘60s
The ’60s is also known for its variety of slang words and catchphrases. They are commonplace in our current lexicon and provide us with a new way of communicating. Here are some of the most popular slang words of the ‘60s that can be heard everywhere:
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Groovy – Meaning great or fantastic, groovy is one of the most commonly used terms from the ’60s. It’s used to express enthusiasm and excitement.
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Far out – This term was used to express agreement or approval. Far out was also often used to express admiration.
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Chill – This word was originally used as an invitation to relax and have a good time. Now, it holds a similar meaning, but it is often used as an adjective in addition to a verb.
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Ace – Used as an adjective, ace was used to refer to something or someone that was extremely cool. It is still used this way today.
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Bummed out – To be “bummed out” means to be sad or gloomy. This phrase was initially used in the ’60s, but it is still used today.
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Bummer – The word bummer was used to describe something that was unappealing or unpleasant. It was used to express disappointment in a situation.
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Right on – This phrase was used to express agreement or approval. It was often used in combination with “far out” as a way of showing agreement or appreciation.
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Hippie – A hippie was someone in the ’60s who embraced peace and love and usually followed countercultural values. They embraced their own sense of style and often wore bright clothes.
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Outta sight – This phrase was used to express joy and excitement. It was typically used to show appreciation or admiration.
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Gas – This term was used to express agreement or approval. It usually followed a statement that was meant to be taken seriously.
Realizing the Power of the ’60s
The ’60s were a time of immense progress and change. The language used during this time was reflective of the culture. It enabled people to express themselves in ways that were not possible before. People were able to be stylish and express their status through language. Many of these phrases are still used today and are a reminder of the power of the ’60s and their influence on language.
Revisiting the Music of the ‘60s
The music of the ’60s also played a major role in the development of the decade’s slang. It was the music of the time that inspired them to use these words. Classic rock, pop, and soul music of the ’60s were heavily influential during the time and have continued to be relevant even today.
Slang Words in Popular Culture
’60s slang is not only used in everyday conversations, but is also featured in popular culture. Movies, TV shows, books, and music are just some of the ways in which ’60s slang has made its way into modern media. Many musicians have adopted these terms in their lyrics and often use them as a sign of cultural understanding. The style of speaking from the ’60s has become a part of our cultural language and many people recognize these terms.
Using ’60s Slang Today
Nowadays, ’60s slang is liberally used in multiple contexts. It is used to express excitement, agreement, or disapproval. It is also often used to show solidarity with the past or to evoke nostalgic feelings. ’60s slang has also been adopted in youth culture to identify themselves as part of a certain generation.
Ultimately, ’60s slang words bring us back to the spirit of the decade. They remind us of the power of language and the ability it has to shape cultures and societies. By revisiting these terms, we can relive the days of progress, change, and of course, groovy slang.
