Hippie Phrases and Words

The dialect adopted during this period is well-known and indicative of what we might call “hippie slang” A lot of these words and phrases have been embraced in today’s language. Some you will surprisingly or not, recognize as words that we use in our everyday lives without even giving thought to its origination. You would be forgiven for forgetting or even not knowing that they have hippie or countercultural origins.

Without further ado, let’s get to understanding hippie lingo.

Far out: If something tends to be unconventional or slightly out of the ordinary, “far out” would be used to describe it. It’s a way to express your approval. – “That hoodie you have on is “far out” It can also be used to express your thanks or excitement at receiving good news.

Dig: Dig is word meaning to understand. If someone says “I dig you” it means they understand what you’ve just said. It can also be used to approve of something. Eg: “I dig your hat” means that you like it.

 Fried: To be “fried” meant that you were under the influence of drugs. Similar to how we would describe a drunk person as being “tipsy. After a session of smoking marijuana, a hippie would say, “My brain is fried after smoking all that weed”

 Bummer: This is an expression of disappointment. It is often used when someone refers to an unfortunate event. Eg: If your favourite band just cancelled their gig in your hometown, you would say “That’s a bummer”

Trip: If you’ve ever had a profound or thrilling experience, you would probably use the phrase: “Man, what a trip” This term is also used to refer to what one might experience after taking a hallucinogenic drug.

 Fuzz: Hippies use this slang word to refer to the police or law-enforcement officers. They would often use this term to express their annoyance at the police for being fussy over inconsequential matters.

Cop out: This means to back out of, or avoid commitments, responsibilities, or obligations with excuses. If you gave up or backed away from them, you were said to have copped out.

Groovy: This is a broad term and can be used to describe many exciting things such as feelings, situations, objects etc. Eg: “Your Himalayan clothing is groovy” It falls along the lines of cool or awesome.

Rad: Another word that is similar to groovy or outta sight. It means that something is cool or awesome. Let’s say you went to a fashion show and you enjoyed it immensely. You would use the word Rad to describe it.

Hip: If you’re “hip” then you are in-the-know, happening and fashionable. People who keep up with the latest trends in their field are regarded as “hip”

Peace: It’s no secret that Hippies are renowned advocates of peace and non-violence. It was the backbone of the movement during the 60’s and something they promoted through anti-war marches and protests. They would hand out flowers to soldiers while saying “peace man” Today it is often used as a slang, or alternative way of saying goodbye.

Right On: If you use the phrase “right on” it’s a vote of your approval. It means you are in agreement with a person’s statement or actions.

 Outta Sight: Similar to “groovy” - Hippies would often use this as a way of saying that something is awesome or stunning. They would express their approval by saying “Your new top is outta sight”

 Blow: This word can also be used in many contexts. It could refer to someone wasting or using their money carelessly. Eg: Don’t blow all your money in one place” Today, if a person uses the phrase: “This blows” it means that they disapprove of, or don’t like it.

Killer: This word is used to describe something totally awesome or incredible. For example, if someone leaves a lasting impression on you by their actions, you would say “That was a killer display of skills” or “That was a killer performance”

Flower Child: A flower child is just another word used to describe a “hippie” They are happy people who constantly advocate peace and love. They are happy-go-lucky individuals who spread joy wherever they go.

Gig: If you were on your way to a concert, you would say that you’re “going to a gig” It could also be used to describe your job or something that you do. Many musicians today use this term when they refer to a live performance or jam session.

Free Spirit: Free spirited people are those who are not easily influenced by society. They have their own opinions and are independent, non-conformists. They wear and say whatever they want as long as they feel good.

That’s it for today folks. I hope you found this article enlightening. Till next time, peace out.