The 1970s were a groovy time, filled with bell-bottoms, disco, and some seriously far-out slang. While many words from that era have stood the test of time, others have faded into obscurity, leaving younger generations scratching their heads. This blog post will take you on a trip down memory lane, exploring 21 slang terms from the ’70s that might leave Millennials feeling like they’re from another planet.
Hang Loose
This phrase is meant to relax or take it easy. People used it to tell others not to worry or stress out. It was often paired with a hand gesture where you extend your thumb and pinkie finger. The term came from surf culture but spread to mainstream use in the ’70s.
Boogie
Boogie meant to dance, especially to funk or disco music. It became a popular way to describe moving to the groovy beats of the era. The term likely came from the boogie-woogie music style. People would say they were going to boogie down at the disco on weekends.
Far Out
This term expressed amazement or approval. It meant something was excellent or mind-blowing. The phrase came from the idea of being far out in space. Hippies often used it to describe psychedelic experiences. People would call it a great concert or a wild party far out.
Catch You on the Flip Side
This meant goodbye or see you later. It came from vinyl records, where you’d flip the disc to hear the other side. The phrase suggested you’d see the person again, like hearing the other side of a record. Friends would use it when parting ways after hanging out.
Copacetic
Copacetic meant that everything was okay or satisfactory. It was a way to say that things were going well or in order. The word has unclear origins but became popular in the ’70s. People would use it to describe a situation that was running smoothly or without problems.
Skinny
Skinny meant the real information or the truth about something. It was like getting the inside scoop on a topic. The term likely came from the idea of getting down to the bare facts. Someone might ask, “What’s the skinny on the new teacher?” to learn more about them.
Brick House
This term describes an attractive, curvaceous woman. It came from the idea of a woman being built solidly, like a brick house. The Commodores even wrote a famous song about it in 1977. People would use it as a compliment, saying someone was built like a brick house.
Psyche
Psyche was used to trick someone or take back what you just said. It was like saying “Just kidding” but with more punch. The term comes from psychology, playing with someone’s mind. Kids would often use it after telling a friend some exciting news, then yelling “Psyche!” to show it wasn’t true.
Bogart
To bogart meant to keep something all to yourself, especially a joint. It came from actor Humphrey Bogart, known for keeping cigarettes in his mouth while talking. People would tell others not to bogart the snacks or the TV remote. It was a way to ask someone to share.
Can You Dig It?
This phrase asked if someone understood or agreed with what was said. It was like asking, “Do you get it?” or “Are you cool with that?” The term came from African American slang. People would use it to check if others were on the same page or following along.
Crib
Crib meant someone’s home or living space. It wasn’t just for babies anymore! The term gave a cool vibe to talking about where you lived. Young people especially used it to describe their apartments or houses. Someone might invite friends over by saying, “Let’s hang at my crib tonight.
Foxy
Foxy described someone who was very attractive or sexy. It was often used for women but could apply to men too. The term came from comparing attractive people to the sleek, beautiful fox. People would call a good-looking person a foxy lady or a foxy dude.
Heavy
Heavy meant serious, deep, or profound. It was used to describe intense emotions or complex ideas. The term suggested that something had a lot of weight or importance. Someone might say a movie was heavy if it dealt with serious themes or made them think deeply.
Jive Turkey
A jive turkey was someone who was insincere, foolish or tried to deceive others. It combined “jive,” meaning deceptive talk, with “turkey,” a silly person. The term was often used to call out someone who wasn’t being truthful. People might say, “Don’t be a jive turkey,” to tell someone to be honest.
Keep On Truckin’
This phrase meant to persevere or keep going despite difficulties. It encouraged people to stay positive and keep moving forward. The term came from a popular cartoon by R. Crumb. Friends would say it to each other as a way to offer support during tough times.
Mellow Out
To mellow out meant to relax or calm down. It was often used to tell someone to stop being angry or upset. The term came from the idea of mellowing like ripening fruit. People would tell others to mellow out if they were getting too worked up about something.
Rat Fink
A rat fink was someone who betrayed their friends or told others. It combined “rat,” a snitch, with “fink,” a contemptible person. The term was used to describe people who couldn’t be trusted. Kids might call a classmate a rat fink for telling the teacher about misbehavior.
Right On
This phrase expressed strong agreement or approval. It was like saying “Exactly” or “You’ve got it.” The term showed enthusiasm for what someone said or did. People would shout “Right on!” during speeches or performances to show their support.
Shagadelic
Shagadelic described something very cool or groovy, especially in a sexy way. It combined “shag,” slang for sex, with “psychedelic.” The term wasn’t common until Austin Powers movies brought it back. In the ’70s, people might use it to describe a wild party or an attractive outfit.
Space Cadet
A space cadet was someone who seemed distracted or out of touch with reality. It suggested the person’s mind was wandering in space. The term could be used affectionately or as an insult. Friends might call someone a space cadet if they were daydreaming or not paying attention.
What a Drag
This phrase expresses disappointment or frustration with a situation. It meant something was boring or a bummer. The term came from the idea of something dragging you down. People would say, “What a drag,” when plans fell through, or something unpleasant happened.
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