181 Slang Words by Decade: From 'Scram' to 'Slaps'

Slang words are informal and often unconventional terms used within specific groups or communities to convey meaning in a playful, humorous or emphatic way. Slang adds emphasis and color to communication, making it more engaging and relatable.

These new words and phrases often emerge from real-life interactions and pop culture, with current trends frequently spreading through social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok. As a general rule, slang is not typically appropriate in a professional setting but thrives in casual conversations and online interactions.

Some older generations may view slang as too informal or disrespectful, but slang itself isn't inherently negative. It's all about context. The key is to avoid using slang that is rude or inappropriate.

Origins

The origins of slang are deeply rooted in the diverse and dynamic aspects of human culture and society. Youth culture has always been a significant driver of slang, as young people often seek to distinguish themselves from older generations through innovative and creative language.

Many slang terms originate from subcultures and marginalized communities, reflecting their unique experiences and perspectives. In fact, Black Americans have profoundly influenced the development of American slang, particularly in the realms of music, fashion and social movements. African American Vernacular English (AAVE) has introduced numerous slang terms into mainstream usage, influencing the way people speak globally.

LGBTQ culture has also contributed significantly to the slang lexicon. LGBTQ slang often reflects the community's unique experiences and has been popularized through media, drag culture and social activism.

Now that we've learned a bit about the origin of these unique words, let's dive into a century of the coolest and most iconic slang terms.

Step back into the Roaring Twenties, a time when jazz was hot, flappers were the cat's meow and the nightlife was as illicit as it was exhilarating. Get ready to scram from the humdrum and dive into the giggle water of the past with these top 20 slang terms that defined the Jazz Age.

The 1930s were an era defined by the grit and resilience of a nation grappling with the Great Depression. Amid the economic hardships, people found solace in swing music, Hollywood's Golden Age and radio shows that provided an escape from everyday struggles. The slang of the 1930s reflects the spirit of the times, full of creativity, humor and a touch of defiance.

The 1940s were an era forged by the trials of World War II and ignited by the hopeful dawn of the post-war boom. This decade was a melting pot of resilience and innovation, where slang terms bubbled up from the battlefields, glittered under Hollywood's spotlights and peppered everyday conversations.

The 1950s saw a post-war world settling into a new era of prosperity and cultural shifts. Rock 'n' roll music, drive-in movies and the rise of the suburban lifestyle defined this decade. The language of the 1950s reflects the optimism and new cultural norms that emerged during this time.

The 1960s were a time of profound social change, political upheaval and cultural revolution. From the Civil Rights Movement to the Summer of Love, this decade was all about challenging the status quo and exploring new frontiers. The slang of the 1960s reflects the rebellious and innovative spirit of the era.

The 1970s were marked by disco, bell-bottoms and a laid-back attitude that permeated the culture. This decade saw the continuation of the counterculture movement and the emergence of new musical genres and styles.

The 1980s were a decade of excess, marked by bold fashion, blockbuster movies and the rise of video games and personal computers. The slang of the '80s reflects the vibrant and flashy culture of the time, filled with new technology and trends.

The 1990s saw the rise of the internet, grunge music and a more laid-back approach to life. This decade brought a mix of new technology and nostalgia for simpler times, reflected in the slang of the era.

The 2000s were defined by the explosion of the internet, reality TV and the first social media platform. This decade saw rapid changes in technology and culture, with slang evolving to match the fast-paced world.

The 2010s were a decade of social media dominance, meme culture and a growing awareness of social and political issues. The slang of the 2010s reflects the influence of internet culture and the rapid spread of new ideas and expressions.

The 2020s have been marked by global challenges, technological advancements and a heightened awareness of social issues. Gen Z slang in this decade continues to evolve rapidly, influenced by internet culture, social media and the ongoing changes in society.

The "greatest" slang word is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences, cultural context and the time period. However, one highly influential slang word that has had a significant impact on language and culture is "cool."

"Cool" has been used for decades to describe something fashionable, impressive or socially acceptable. It originated in the early 20th century and gained widespread popularity in the 1940s and 1950s through jazz culture and the influence of Black Americans.

The term has remained relevant and adaptable, consistently used across generations to convey approval or admiration.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.