Top 51 Slang For History – Meaning & Usage

History buffs and language enthusiasts, get ready to dive into a linguistic time machine as we explore the top slang words and phrases from different eras in history. From ancient civilizations to modern-day pop culture references, this listicle is a treasure trove of fascinating words that will transport you to different periods of time. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and prepare to embark on a linguistic journey through the ages.

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1. Jargon

Jargon refers to specialized language or terminology used by a specific group or profession. It often includes technical terms or expressions that are not easily understood by those outside the group.

For example, a computer programmer might say, “I’m going to debug this code using some programming jargon.”
In a medical setting, a doctor might use jargon when discussing a patient’s condition, saying, “The patient presents with symptoms of dyspnea and tachycardia.”
A sports commentator might use jargon when describing a play, saying, “The quarterback executed a perfect audible to confuse the defense.”

2. Cant

Cant refers to a secret language or jargon used by a specific group, often to exclude or deceive outsiders. It is typically associated with criminal or underground activities.

For instance, a thief might use cant to communicate covertly with their accomplice, saying, “The mark is a ‘fish’ and the plan is to ‘lift’ the ‘jewels’.”
In a historical context, cant was used by beggars and thieves to communicate without arousing suspicion from authorities.
A detective might study cant to understand the language and tactics of criminals during an investigation.

3. Lingo

Lingo refers to specific language or vocabulary used by a particular group or community. It often includes unique terms or expressions that are commonly understood within the group.

For example, gamers might use lingo when discussing strategies, saying, “I’m going to rush B with an AWP and watch for rotations.”
In the world of fashion, designers and models might use lingo to describe clothing styles, saying, “This dress has a high-low hemline and a sweetheart neckline.”
A musician might use lingo to discuss music theory, saying, “The song is in the key of G and has a IV-V-I chord progression.”

4. Argot

Argot refers to a specific slang or jargon used by a particular group or subculture. It often includes unconventional words or phrases that are not widely understood by the general population.

For instance, skateboarders might use argot to describe tricks, saying, “I landed a kickflip into a 50-50 grind.”
In the world of graffiti art, artists might use argot to discuss techniques and styles, saying, “I’m going to hit up that wall with some wildstyle letters.”
A hacker might use argot when discussing computer security, saying, “I found a zero-day exploit and bypassed the firewall.”

5. Colloquialism

Colloquialism refers to informal language or expressions that are commonly used in everyday speech. It often includes regional or cultural variations of words or phrases.

For example, in certain parts of the United States, people might use the colloquialism “y’all” to address a group of people.
In British English, the colloquialism “bloke” is often used to refer to a man.
A person might use colloquialism when telling a story, saying, “I was totally freaking out, but my friend was like, ‘Chill, it’s no biggie.'”

6. Vernacular

Vernacular refers to the language or dialect spoken by the common people in a specific region or country. It is the informal, everyday language that is used in casual conversations and may differ from the formal, standardized language.

For example, “The vernacular of the people in New Orleans is a unique blend of French, English, and Creole.”
In a discussion about literature, one might say, “Mark Twain’s use of vernacular in ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ adds authenticity to the characters.”
A linguistics professor might explain, “The study of vernacular language helps us understand the cultural and social aspects of a community.”

7. Slangy

Slangy refers to language or words that are informal, colloquial, and often used within a specific group or subculture. It is a more relaxed and casual form of language that may include unique words, expressions, or phrases.

For instance, “His speech was filled with slangy phrases that only his friends understood.”
In a conversation about music, someone might say, “Hip-hop lyrics often incorporate slangy words and phrases.”
A teenager might use slangy language to say, “That movie was lit! It had all the fire slang!”

8. Jive

Jive refers to deceptive or insincere talk, often used to mislead or confuse someone. It can also refer to a style of dance and music that originated in African-American communities in the early 20th century.

For example, “Don’t jive me with your excuses. I know you’re lying.”
In a discussion about jazz music, one might say, “Louis Armstrong was a master of the jive style.”
A person might use jive to describe a politician’s speech, saying, “His jive talk doesn’t convince me. I want to hear real solutions.”

9. Cockney rhyming slang

Cockney rhyming slang is a playful form of slang that originated in the East End of London. It involves replacing a word with a rhyming phrase, where the rhyming part is often dropped. It is a unique linguistic tradition that requires familiarity with the rhyming phrases to understand the intended meaning.

For instance, “Apples and pears” is used to mean “stairs” in Cockney rhyming slang.
In a conversation about British culture, one might say, “Cockney rhyming slang adds a fun and puzzling element to the English language.”
A person might use Cockney rhyming slang to say, “I’m going up the apples to fetch something from my bedroom.”

10. Pig Latin

Pig Latin is a coded language where the initial consonant or consonant cluster of a word is moved to the end of the word and “ay” is added. It is often used as a playful way of communicating secretly or as a game among friends.

For example, “Hello” becomes “Ellohay” in Pig Latin.
In a conversation about secret codes, someone might say, “Pig Latin is a simple and fun way to create a coded language.”
A group of friends might use Pig Latin to say, “Are you up for some igpay atinlay?”

11. Groovy

This term originated in the 1960s and was commonly used to describe something that was trendy or stylish. It can also be used to express approval or excitement.

For example, “That outfit is so groovy!”
A person might say, “I love the groovy vibes of this music.”
Another might exclaim, “This party is going to be groovy!”

12. Rad

This slang term became popular in the 1980s and is short for “radical.” It is used to describe something that is exciting, impressive, or cool.

For instance, “That skateboard trick was rad!”
A person might say, “The concert last night was rad.”
Another might exclaim, “This new video game is rad!”

13. Hella

This slang term originated in the 1990s and is commonly used to intensify an adjective or adverb. It is primarily used in the West Coast of the United States.

For example, “That party was hella fun!”
A person might say, “I’m hella tired after a long day.”
Another might exclaim, “This pizza is hella delicious!”

14. Lit

This term originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has become popular in mainstream slang. It is used to describe something that is highly enjoyable or impressive.

For instance, “The party last night was lit!”
A person might say, “This song is so lit.”
Another might exclaim, “The fireworks display was lit!”

15. On fleek

This slang term originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained popularity through social media. It is used to describe something that is on point or looking perfect.

For example, “Her eyebrows are on fleek!”
A person might say, “My outfit is on fleek today.”
Another might exclaim, “The makeup artist did an on fleek job!”

16. Gucci

In slang, “Gucci” is used to describe something that is good, great, or excellent. It is derived from the luxury fashion brand Gucci, which is associated with high quality and style.

For example, a person might say, “That new movie is Gucci!” to express their positive opinion about it.
In a conversation about a delicious meal, someone might say, “This pizza is Gucci!”
A friend might compliment another’s outfit by saying, “Your outfit is Gucci, bro!”

17. Salty

When used as slang, “salty” refers to someone who is bitter, angry, or resentful. It is often used to describe someone who is upset or irritated about something.

For instance, if someone is complaining a lot, you might say, “Why are you so salty?”
In a discussion about a sports game, a fan of the losing team might say, “I’m feeling salty about that referee’s call.”
If someone is holding a grudge, you might say, “They’re still salty about what happened last year.”

18. Clout

When used as slang, “clout” refers to influence or popularity, especially on social media. It is often used to describe someone who has a large following or is well-known.

For example, a person might say, “She has a lot of clout on Instagram,” to indicate that she has a significant number of followers and influence.
In a discussion about trends, someone might say, “That new dance move is gaining clout.”
A person might describe a celebrity as having “clout” because of their fame and influence.

19. Yeet

In slang, “yeet” is a versatile term that can be used to express excitement, approval, or to describe the action of throwing or discarding something forcefully.

For instance, if someone throws a ball far, they might exclaim, “Yeet!”
In a conversation about getting rid of something, a person might say, “I’m going to yeet this old shirt.”
A friend might say, “Let’s yeet ourselves into the weekend!” to express excitement about the upcoming weekend.

20. FOMO

FOMO is an acronym for “fear of missing out.” It refers to the anxiety or unease that someone feels when they believe they are missing out on a social event or experience.

For example, a person might say, “I didn’t go to the party last night, and now I have major FOMO.”
In a discussion about a popular concert, someone might say, “I have serious FOMO because I couldn’t get tickets.”
A friend might text another, “You should come to the beach with us! Don’t have FOMO!” to invite them to join in on the fun.

21. GOAT

This term is used to describe someone or something that is considered the best in history or of all time. It is often used to praise exceptional achievements or skills.

For example, “Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball.”
A fan might say, “Beyoncé is the GOAT when it comes to performing.”
In a discussion about music, someone might argue, “Elvis Presley is the GOAT of rock and roll.”

22. Far out

This phrase was popularized in the 1960s counterculture movement and is used to express astonishment or excitement about something.

For instance, “That concert was far out, man!”
A person might exclaim, “Far out! I can’t believe we won the lottery.”
In a discussion about historical events, someone might say, “The moon landing was a far out achievement.”

23. Tubular

This term emerged in the 1980s and was popularized by surf culture. It is used to describe something as impressive or exciting.

For example, “That skateboard trick was tubular!”
A person might say, “I just got tickets to the concert, it’s gonna be tubular.”
In a conversation about historical figures, someone might describe Albert Einstein as a “tubular genius.”

24. Phat

This slang term originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained popularity in the 1990s. It is used to describe something as excellent or of high quality.

For instance, “That car is phat!”
A person might say, “The party last night was phat, everyone had a great time.”
In a discussion about historical fashion, someone might describe a vintage outfit as “phat.”

25. Woke

This term originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and gained widespread usage in recent years. It refers to being socially and politically aware, particularly regarding systemic racism and social inequalities.

For example, “She is woke and actively fighting for equal rights.”
A person might say, “I attended a woke conference that opened my eyes to the issues.”
In a discussion about historical movements, someone might describe civil rights activists as “woke individuals.”

26. Dope

In slang, “dope” is used to describe something that is excellent, cool, or impressive. It can refer to a person, an object, or an event.

For example, “That outfit is dope!”
A person might say, “I just saw a dope movie last night.”
Someone might describe a concert as “dope” if it was an amazing experience.

27. Savage

In slang, “savage” is used to describe something or someone that is fierce, brutal, or extremely cool. It can be used to compliment someone’s actions or style.

For instance, “She roasted him with savage comebacks.”
A person might say, “That dance move was savage!”
Someone might describe a party as “savage” if it was wild and unforgettable.

28. Tea

In slang, “tea” is used to refer to gossip or information about someone or something. It can also be used to describe a situation or event that is dramatic or controversial.

For example, “Spill the tea on what happened last night.”
A person might say, “I have some juicy tea about that celebrity.”
Someone might describe a heated argument as “tea” if it was full of drama and tension.

29. Snatched

In slang, “snatched” is used to describe someone who looks incredibly stylish, put-together, or attractive. It can also be used to describe something that is perfect or flawless.

For instance, “Her outfit is snatched!”
A person might say, “I just got my hair done and it looks snatched.”
Someone might describe a makeup look as “snatched” if it is flawless and on point.

30. Bae

In slang, “bae” is a term of endearment used to refer to someone’s romantic partner or significant other. It is an abbreviation for “before anyone else”.

For example, “I’m going out to dinner with my bae.”
A person might say, “I love spending time with my bae.”
Someone might describe their partner as “bae” if they are deeply in love with them.

31. Pastime

This term refers to an activity or hobby that someone enjoys doing in their free time. It can also refer to a traditional or popular form of entertainment from the past.

For example, “Reading is my favorite pastime.”
A person might say, “Fishing used to be a popular pastime for many people.”
In a discussion about hobbies, someone might ask, “What are your favorite pastimes?”

32. Yesteryears

This term is used to refer to the past or previous times, often with a nostalgic or sentimental connotation.

For instance, “Back in the yesteryears, things were simpler.”
A person might say, “I miss the fashion trends of the yesteryears.”
In a conversation about history, someone might ask, “What do you find most fascinating about the yesteryears?”

33. Back in the day

This phrase is used to refer to a time in the past, often with a sense of nostalgia or reminiscence.

For example, “Back in the day, we didn’t have smartphones.”
A person might say, “Back in the day, people used to write letters instead of sending emails.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “Back in the day, rock and roll was revolutionary.”

34. Ancient history

This term is used to refer to events or information that is no longer relevant or important because it happened a long time ago.

For instance, “The dispute between those two countries is ancient history.”
A person might say, “Let’s forget about that argument. It’s ancient history now.”
In a conversation about technology, someone might say, “The first generation of smartphones is ancient history.”

35. History buff

This term is used to describe a person who has a strong interest in history and enjoys learning about and discussing historical events and topics.

For example, “John is a history buff. He knows everything about World War II.”
A person might say, “I’m a history buff myself. I love studying ancient civilizations.”
In a discussion about historical figures, someone might ask, “Are there any famous history buffs you admire?”

36. Historical context

This refers to the events, circumstances, and conditions that surround and influence a particular historical event or period. It provides a deeper understanding of why things happened the way they did.

For example, a historian might say, “To fully understand the significance of this event, we must consider the historical context in which it occurred.”
In a discussion about a political decision, someone might argue, “You can’t judge it without taking into account the historical context.”
A student studying World War II might ask, “What was the historical context that led to the rise of Adolf Hitler?”

37. Historical landmark

This refers to a place, building, or structure that has significant historical, cultural, or architectural importance. Historical landmarks are often protected and preserved for their historical value.

For instance, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a famous historical landmark.
A traveler might say, “Visiting the Great Wall of China was a dream come true. It’s such an incredible historical landmark.”
In a discussion about tourism, someone might recommend, “If you visit Rome, make sure to see the Colosseum. It’s a must-visit historical landmark.”

38. Olden days

This refers to a period of time in the past, often characterized by a sense of nostalgia or romanticism. “Olden days” is a colloquial term used to refer to a time before the present.

For example, an elderly person might reminisce, “Back in the olden days, we didn’t have smartphones. Life was simpler.”
In a conversation about fashion trends, someone might say, “I love vintage clothing from the olden days.”
A parent might tell their child, “When I was your age, we didn’t have all the technology you have now. We played outside in the olden days.”

39. Ancient times

This refers to a very distant period in history, often associated with ancient civilizations and their cultures. “Ancient times” is a broad term that encompasses various historical periods, such as Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire.

For instance, a historian might say, “The discovery of ancient artifacts provides valuable insights into the customs and beliefs of ancient times.”
In a discussion about mythology, someone might mention, “In ancient times, people believed in a pantheon of gods.”
A student studying archaeology might ask, “What were the major advancements in technology during ancient times?”

40. Bygone era

This refers to a period of time that has passed and is no longer present. “Bygone era” is often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or longing for a time gone by.

For example, a grandparent might say, “In my day, we didn’t have smartphones. It was a bygone era.”
In a discussion about music, someone might reminisce, “The music of the 80s brings back memories of a bygone era.”
A historian might describe a certain period as a “bygone era of prosperity and innovation.”

41. Past times

This term refers to times in the past, often associated with a sense of nostalgia or longing. It can be used to describe a specific time period or a general sense of history.

For example, “I love learning about the past times of ancient civilizations.”
A person might say, “Back in the past times, people relied on handwritten letters to communicate.”
Someone might reminisce, “Those were the past times when people didn’t have smartphones and spent more time outdoors.”

42. Reminiscent

This word describes something that reminds someone of a previous time or experience. It can be used to describe objects, events, or even emotions.

For instance, “The smell of freshly baked cookies is reminiscent of my childhood.”
A person might say, “This song is so reminiscent of the 80s.”
Someone might comment, “The old building is reminiscent of a bygone era.”

43. Nostalgic

This term describes a strong emotional longing or affection for a previous time or experience. It often evokes positive feelings and memories.

For example, “Listening to my favorite childhood songs makes me feel nostalgic.”
A person might say, “I feel nostalgic when I visit my childhood home.”
Someone might reminisce, “Those were the nostalgic days when life was simpler and less complicated.”

44. Vintage

This word is used to describe something that is from a previous era or time period. It often refers to items or styles that are considered old-fashioned or classic.

For instance, “She collects vintage clothing from the 1950s.”
A person might say, “I love the vintage look of this antique furniture.”
Someone might comment, “This record player has a vintage charm to it.”

45. Retro

This term refers to something that is designed or made in a style that imitates or evokes a previous era. It is often used to describe fashion, furniture, or other design elements.

For example, “She decorated her living room with retro furniture from the 1960s.”
A person might say, “I love the retro vibe of this disco-themed party.”
Someone might comment, “The retro fashion trend is making a comeback.”

46. Ancestral

Refers to something or someone that is related to your family or ancestors. It can also be used to describe traditions or customs that have been passed down through generations.

For example, “I am visiting my ancestral homeland in Ireland.”
A person might say, “I have an ancestral connection to this place.”
In a discussion about family history, someone might ask, “Do you know anything about your ancestral lineage?”

47. Antiquated

Describes something that is no longer considered modern or relevant. It can refer to ideas, objects, or practices that are no longer in use.

For instance, “Using a typewriter is considered antiquated in today’s digital age.”
A person might say, “That fashion trend is so antiquated.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might argue, “We need to update our antiquated systems.”

48. Heritage

Refers to the traditions, customs, and values that are passed down through generations. It can also relate to a person’s cultural or historical background.

For example, “I am proud of my Irish heritage.”
A person might say, “It’s important to preserve our cultural heritage.”
In a discussion about national identity, someone might argue, “Our heritage shapes who we are as a society.”

49. Legacy

Refers to something that is handed down or left behind by previous generations. It can be tangible, such as money or property, or intangible, such as knowledge or values.

For instance, “The artist left behind a lasting legacy of beautiful paintings.”
A person might say, “I want to leave a positive legacy for future generations.”
In a discussion about influential figures, someone might argue, “Their legacy continues to inspire others.”

50. Time machine

Refers to a fictional device that allows someone to travel to different points in time. It is often used metaphorically to describe something that takes you back in time or allows you to experience the past.

For example, “Listening to this music is like stepping into a time machine.”
A person might say, “This old photograph is a time machine to the past.”
In a discussion about nostalgia, someone might say, “Certain scents can be like a time machine, bringing back memories.”

51. Historical record

This term refers to any written, audio, or visual documentation of past events. It encompasses a wide range of materials, including official documents, personal letters, photographs, and recordings.

For example, a historian might say, “I spent hours going through old docs at the archives.”
In a discussion about a historical event, someone might ask, “Are there any primary docs that provide insight into what happened?”
A researcher might comment, “The discovery of these new docs sheds light on an often overlooked aspect of history.”