Every decade brings its own set of distinctive words and phrases, setting it apart from its predecessors and successors, and the 1960s were no exception. While terms like “groovy,” references to the police as “the fuzz” or “the pigs,” and calling money “bread” have faded from common use, some slang from the 1960s has endured and continues to be part of today’s language.
24/7 Tempo compiled a list of common phrases from the 60s that we still use today. The information gathered was from sources including YourDictionary, Merriam-Webster, and Higher Language.
Within the tapestry of American English history, a significant portion of our language is rooted in the vernacular of the nation’s African American culture, notably from jazz musicians, and this influence endures. Additionally, the 1960s witnessed the emergence of counterculture, a surge in pop music, and the aspirations of women and minorities striving for recognition in society. Many words and phrases born out of the transformative spirit of the 1960s have stood the test of time.
The undeniable impact of social media on language adds another layer to this linguistic evolution. It remains to be seen if more recent expressions like “throw shade” (public criticism), “ghosting” (ignoring or discontinuing engagement on social media), or “slay” (performing impressively or commandingly) will retain their current meanings in the years ahead.(These are childhood traditions from the 1960s that should come back.)
Here are some common words and phrases from the ‘60s that we still use today:
Rip-off
- Meaning: Something that costs too much or isn’t what it seemed to be
A drag
- Meaning: Disappointing or dull, as a situation or a person
Ride shotgun
- Meaning: Ride in the passenger seat of a vehicle
Tune out
- Meaning: Ignore
Sponge off
- Meaning: Freeload or live off someone else
Catch some rays
- Meaning: Get a suntan
Downer
- Meaning: Unpleasant or depressing, as a person or experience
Freak out
- Meaning: Get out of control or hysterical
Jam
- Meaning: Play music together
Laid back/mellow
- Meaning: Relaxed, low-key
Jazzed
- Meaning: Excited
No sweat
- Meaning: No problem
Scarf down
- Meaning: Eat fast
Shot down
- Meaning: Rejected
Crashing
- Meaning: Sleeping at someone’s house or just falling asleep
Tight
- Meaning: Very friendly
Uptight
- Meaning: Tense
Brew
- Meaning: Beer
Shades
- Meaning: Sunglasses
Scuzzy
- Meaning: Dirty or unpleasant