Boomers, just like most other generations, grew up with their own cool and quirky catchphrases that they would use regularly. Over time, these catchphrases have started to die out. Here are 17 catchphrases from boomers that aren’t cool anymore.
“Groovy”
According to Business Insider, the Gen Z equivalent to “groovy” is “fire.” A popular catchphrase that even the younger generations have probably heard boomers use at some point is “groovy.” This was a term used to say something was fashionable or excellent and was heavily used in the 1960s and 1970s, as it matched the culture around that time.
“Can You Dig It?”
“Can you dig it?” was a phrase usually used by boomers to ask if someone understood or agreed on something. This was a very popular phrase in the 1970s and would even be in the vocabulary of old films and TV shows. Today, it’s no longer cool and you’re unlikely to even hear a boomer use it.
“Far Out”
“Far out” was a term used to express amazement or approval, similar to the word “awesome.” Today, “awesome” is used, but “far out” isn’t, as it’s no longer viewed as being cool. But back in the boomer generation, it was often used and was heavily associated with hippie culture.
“Heavy”
“Heavy” was such a popular phrase that even younger generations used it at the time; however, now it’s a term that seems to have drifted away. Its meaning was that something had a deep significance or a profound impact. It was so popular that it was a term even used in films.
“Psychedelic”
“Psychedelic” was a phrase used by boomers to describe mind-expanding experiences, often through drugs. However, today, its original meaning isn’t cool anymore and instead, it’s used in a different way. Many people now use the term to describe vibrant patterns or colors in fashion.
“Hang Loose”
The catchphrase “hang loose” is a term many younger generations would have never heard, as it was only popular in the boomer era. It’s defined as behaving in a relaxed and easy fashion. It was said to encourage a relaxed and stress-free environment and was often accompanied by the shaka handshake.
“Square”
This doesn’t refer to the shape. “Square” was used more in a negative way to describe someone as conventional or traditional. Today, it’s used by few but in a more playful manner, to describe being out of touch. It was popular in the ‘50s and ‘60s during the jazz scenes.
“Funky”
“Funky” may still be used today, but its catchphrase has a different meaning than the original one boomers used. It was originally a positive term for something earthly, deeply felt, or authentic, but that is no longer cool. Instead, today it’s used to describe not a nice odor or a unique style.
“Make Love, Not War”
The catchphrase “Make love, not war” originated during the Vietnam War. It was a slogan used for the anti-war movement and symbolized the hippie view of peace over violence. Unfortunately, despite still having the same meaning and wars still going on today, this is no longer a popular phrase.
“Right On”
“Right on” was a popular catchphrase used by boomers to confirm agreement and support for what someone was saying. It was particularly popular in political contexts and was used during the civil rights movements. Today, it’s not used, as it’s now seen as an outdated term that many wouldn’t understand.
“Outta Sight”
The catchphrase “outta sight” was a cool term used to describe something that was amazing or unbelievable. This phrase was a symbol of the decade in the 1970s, with most boomers using it. However, it wasn’t passed on to younger generations, and instead, today, it’s only used in nostalgic contexts.
“Sock It To Me”
According to Dictionary.com, “This idiom uses sock in the sense of ‘strike hard.’ It is also put as an imperative, as in ‘Sock it to them, kid!’ or ‘Sock it to me!’ which is sometimes used to give encouragement.” Boomers will remember the catchphrase “sock it to me” from the popular Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
“Up Your Nose With A Rubber Hose”
“Up your nose with a rubber hose” was a playful catchphrase used by boomers in the 1970s. It was a joking insult that didn’t have much of a true meaning to it. It’s often looked back on now by people as just strange humor, and it’s definitely no longer cool enough for people to use in the present day.
“Bummer”
“Bummer” was a popular catchphrase in every boomer’s vocabulary. It was so popular that it even got passed on to and used by younger generations. Although it’s not seen as cool today, it was, for a long period of time, an expression to describe a disappointing or unpleasant outcome.
“Take a Chill Pill”
The catchphrase “take a chill pill’ was one used by boomers in their teens and adult lives. It was a term used to politely express to someone to relax or calm down. This was very popular for a significant time, but today, people use the phrase ‘chill’ to express a very similar meaning.
“Skedaddle”
“Skedaddle” was a playful catchphrase used to express a quick departure or escape. It would always be used in a whimsical way and never in a serious situation. It’s a term originating from the 1800s that boomers made great use of, but today it isn’t seen as cool and is hardly used anymore.
“Wig Out”
“Wig out” was a phrase used by boomers to lose control mentally or emotionally. It comes from the term “wig,” which refers to someone’s head or mind. It was a popular catchphrase back in the day but is no longer used as many wouldn’t understand the meaning.
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