Language is ever-evolving, and with time, slang terms come and go. In “Slang Terms of Yesteryears: Fading Expressions of Cool,” we explore 18 once-trendy expressions that have fallen out of fashion. These phrases, popular in the ’80s and ’90s, had their moments of glory but now reside in the annals of linguistic history, reminding us of the dynamic nature of language and culture.
“Groovy”
In the 1960s, “groovy” was the epitome of cool, signifying that something was excellent or stylish. By the late ’70s, its usage waned as newer slang emerged, making it a quintessential term of that era that fell out of fashion.
“Bodacious”
“Bodacious” gained popularity in the ’80s and meant that something was remarkable, impressive, or even attractive. By the early ’90s, it gradually lost favor as newer words took its place.
“Tubular”
This ’80s slang term described something as excellent, awesome, or extraordinary, often associated with the surfer culture. As the ’90s arrived, it declined in popularity and is now seen as a relic of a bygone era.
“Radical”
“Radical” originated in the ’80s and was used to describe something extraordinary or amazing. While it was widely embraced during the ’80s, it became less common in the ’90s, replaced by new slang expressions.
“Gag me with a spoon”
A quintessential Valley Girl expression from the ’80s, this phrase conveyed strong disapproval or disgust. It fell out of fashion as quickly as it gained notoriety, becoming a symbol of ’80s pop culture.
“Wazzup?”
Popularized in the late ’90s by a Budweiser commercial, “Wazzup?” was a casual greeting. However, it failed to maintain its relevance in everyday conversation and is now considered outdated.
“As if!”
This ’90s slang term gained fame through the movie “Clueless” and expressed disbelief or dismissal. It was a staple of ’90s teen culture but is no longer prevalent in modern language.
“All that and a bag of chips”
A ’90s expression that described someone or something as impressive or exceptional. Over time, it lost its popularity, but it still serves as a nostalgic reference to ’90s language.
“Talk to the hand”
In the ’90s, this dismissive phrase indicated a refusal to listen or engage in conversation. Although once widespread, it’s now less commonly used.
“Cowabunga”
A catchphrase from the ’80s and ’90s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, “Cowabunga” was used to express excitement or surprise. While it had its moment, it’s now rarely heard in conversation.
“Phat”
A ’90s term used to describe something as cool or stylish. Its usage diminished as newer slang terms emerged, leaving it in the linguistic archives of the ’90s.
“Fly”
Popular in the ’80s and ’90s, “fly” signified that something was stylish or attractive. As language continued to evolve, it eventually fell out of everyday use.
“Buggin'”
A ’90s expression that referred to someone who was acting irrationally or being annoying. As with many ’90s slang terms, it’s now considered outdated.
“Dope”
A ’90s term meaning excellent or cool. Although it was widely embraced during that decade, it’s not part of contemporary slang.
“Chillin’ like a villain”
In the ’90s, this phrase indicated a relaxed and laid-back attitude. Over time, its use dwindled, and it’s now less commonly heard.
“Word to your mother”
A ’90s expression used to show agreement or acknowledgment, often in a playful manner. While it had its moments of popularity, it’s not as commonly used in modern conversation.
“Psyche!”
Popular in the ’80s and ’90s, “psyche” was used to retract a statement or prank someone. As language continued to evolve, this term fell out of everyday use.
“Fresh”
From the ’80s and ’90s, “fresh” meant that something was cool or new. While it was part of the slang lexicon of that era, it’s no longer commonly used in contemporary language.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Class wars creep up in all aspects of life, including dating. We take a look at the things that men believe are telltale signs that you are lower class.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
The change in the automotive industry has been incredible over the year. Baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 can’t get enough of the cars listed below, as muscle cars emerged in the 1960s, and new technologies appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. You can imagine why boomers genuinely appreciate these vehicles.
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
There is a lot to love about America, from the bright lights of New York to the incredible breakfasts, but foreigners also dislike many things. We look at everything from poor public transport to an intimidating tip culture, sharing 18 things that America could be better at.
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
While some old habits die hard, there are some things that Gen X need to eliminate as they are no longer relevant.
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
When thinking of America, we don’t expect there to be boring or unpleasant places to visit. We see all the different states on the TV, and they show the best parts. However, there are some states you won’t want to visit, and you should brace yourselves if you ever happen to stumble into them.
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
