From platform shoes to afros to disco, the 1970s List of Slang Words and Sayings was a wild and crazy time. Slang jumped all over the place during this groovy era, and many of these phrases are still used today.
A goober is a class clown, while cool beans means really cool. This slang phrase may have come from the nineteenth-century idiom, some beans, or its older cousin, full of beans.
Talk Like a Trucker
From the slang of truckers to the lingo of disco, the 1970s saw some pretty cool lingo spring up. And while some of it may have been a bit bogue, other words we still use today were born in the decade of Fonzie, John Travolta, and disco.
Long-haul truckers lent their slang to the world with phrases like “10-4,” “Do you copy?” and “What’s your twenty?” And while the CB radio might have been around for a while, it was in the ’70s that the term shaggin’ wagon caught on, thanks to truckers who would customize their vehicles with side murals, furniture, and pseudo living spaces.
If someone is so full of themselves that they’re out of their mind, you can tell them to sit on it. This slang word has been around since the 1920s, but it really took off in the ’70s after being popularized by Fonzie on Happy Days.
If you think a woman is impressive, you can say she’s built like a brick house. While it sounds like it could be a derogatory insult, it actually means she’s powerful, well-put-together, and proportionally perfect. Apparently, this phrase has since been taken the wrong way by sexists who believe it objectifies women’s bodies. It’s also possible to say a woman is “fine as wine,” meaning she’s pretty, sophisticated, and classy.
Sit on It
The 1970s were a crazy time in America. Change was occurring faster than ever before, and it was reflected in our language. Slang words and phrases were constantly popping up. Some were just for fun, while others had serious meaning. We may not use them all anymore, but it’s always cool to learn about the lingo of an earlier generation.
For example, if someone is acting “bogue,” it means they’re being unusual or kooky. It can also be used to describe an authority figure, like a police officer or a teacher. You can also say that someone is a fry, which relates to their weirdness.
Another groovy word from the ’70s is “cool beans.” This saying means something is amazing or splendid. It’s also a nice way to compliment someone.
If you’re going to a party, it’s a good idea to wear some groovy clothes. You can also boogie down by listening to some groovy music. This is an excellent way to express yourself! If you want to do something cool, then “go for it.” You can also be a “cool cat” by being a good friend. Just remember to keep your cool! Otherwise, you might be called a “bogue.” It’s not a nice thing to call someone.
Space Cadet
As with any era, the 1970s were filled with cultural revolution and change. And that was definitely reflected in the slang. From the popular “copacetic” to the more specific “ankle biter,” the slang of this time spanned all things cool.
For example, if someone was prattling on about how they’re going to be the next big disco star, you could call them a Stella and tell them to dream on. This slang was also a great way to get rid of an annoying classmate or sibling. Just say, “You’re such a prat, you should be at home in bed with your queen mum.”
In the 70s, the first moon landing was still fresh in everyone’s mind. So, it only made sense that Slangers began using this phrase to describe people who were out of this world. Today, this slang is often used to describe heavy drug users who are disconnected from reality.
Other slang of the 70s included “jump (someone’s) bones,” meaning to want to hook up with that person. Another common phrase was, “Kangblabla,” referring to something wildly excessive or crazy. Just like, “Shine her on,” a popular phrase coined by the Commodores in 1977 for their one-hit wonder song. This slang means, “Fill me in!” or just that the info you’re sharing is rad. Just make sure you’re not referring to your favorite hunk of movie stars!
The Man
When it comes to ’70s slang, there’s no shortage of ways to describe someone who’s “cool.” But not all cool people are created equal. If you know someone who’s got the swagger of a James Brown impersonator, then they’re definitely “the man.”
This expression is one that’s still very popular today. It’s a nice way of saying that a person is confident without being cocky or arrogant. If you say that a friend is “fly,” it means that they’re stylish, hip, and the epitome of cool. This phrase is another that’s been around for a long time and it’s even used in the lyrics of some Creedence Clearwater Revival songs.
The slang word “beans” doesn’t have much to do with the food that’s served on the USS Enterprise, but it’s been used to refer to all sorts of things since the ’70s. If something’s a “bummer,” it’s probably not good. It’s also an easy and catchy way of describing someone who has all the answers.
The ’70s were a crazy time for America with changes happening in every industry and in social norms. And despite the fact that many of these changes have been for the better, it’s nice to see that some of this slang has remained alive and well. So if you’re ever feeling nostalgic, remember these 70s slang words and phrases.
Conclusion
As we look back on the slang of the 1970s, it’s not just a linguistic exercise but a journey into a time of disco fever and bell-bottom pants, where words and phrases were as colorful and vibrant as the fashion and music of the era. These slang terms serve as a reminder of how language evolves with the times and how it shapes our culture and identity.
