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10 Retro Phrases That Need to Make a Comeback

There are quite a few words we’d like to phase out, but there are also a few we’d like to revive from the past. Many of these retro words were popular when boomers were adolescents and have since faded from everyday use. These words capture a unique charm and expressiveness that modern slang often lacks. By bringing them back into our vocabulary, we can add a nostalgic flair to our conversations. Gen Z has already embraced various elements of vintage culture, so why not the language as well? Here are 10 retro words that deserve a comeback and can enrich our daily interactions. Let’s revive these classic terms and give our language a delightful twist.

Giggle Water

Giggle Water

In the 1920s, a common way to describe alcoholic beverages was to use the phrase “giggle water.”

We think this phrase should make a comeback because giggle water is a lot more descriptive (and accurate!) than most other terms for an alcoholic drink. Plus, just saying giggle water will probably make you giggle!

Wigging Out

Wigging Out

In the 1950s, instead of saying that someone was freaking out or going crazy, people would say that they were “wigging out.”

This phrase is a lot more humorous and lighthearted than some of its synonyms, and if uttering this phrase doesn’t make you think of The Wiggles and laugh a little inside, there’s probably something wrong with you.

Hubba Hubba

Hubba Hubba

When you saw an attractive person in the 1940s, you wouldn’t say, “She’s fine” or “What a hot piece.” You would grin at your buddies and say, “Hubba hubba.”

We like this phrase because it’s a little more subtle, and if you’re catcalling someone, you’ll at least get a laugh if they hear you say, “hubba hubba.”

Palooka

Palooka

When one of your friends knocks over your coffee table centerpiece, you probably call them a klutz or something along those lines.

In the 1920s, they had another word for an uncoordinated person: a palooka. Palooka is the perfect word to describe a clumsy person because the word itself is a little clumsy to say!

Razz My Berries

Razz My Berries

Instead of telling someone to do something impressive, you should start saying, “Razz my berries.”

This phrase originated in the 1950s, and we want everyone to start using it in daily conversation because it’s different and a lot more clever than saying, “Wow, me.”

Panoply

Panoply

Note: This word is not pronounced like monopoly. The word "panoply" is used to describe an impressive collection of items, such as shot glasses from around the world.

It will probably surprise you to learn that this word actually originated in the 17th century, so it’s long overdue for a comeback. It’s quirkier to say than “collection,” and people who collect items are usually quirky, so it works marvelously!

Funkadelic

Funkadelic

In the 1970s, when you wanted to describe something as “funky,” “cool,” and “amazing,” you could sum it up with one word: funkadelic.

Not only is this word descriptive and all-encompassing, it’s fun to say, and we could totally see it on tons of graphic tees at music festivals. 

Bumbershoot

Bumbershoot

Have you ever heard someone say, “Well, I’d better grab my Bumbershoot!” after seeing rain in the forecast? Probably not. It hasn’t been used much since the late 19th century, but we desperately want to bring back this hilarious word.

Can you imagine singing the song “Umbrella” with “Bumbershoot” instead? It would be epic.

Salty

Salty

A funny to describe someone who is being crabby or sassy is to say they’re being “salty.” This phrase dates back to as early as the 1930s, and it’s about time that this word made a comeback.

Salty is the opposite of sweet, so it just makes sense to use this word when you’re telling someone to lighten up!

Gnarly

Gnarly

The best part about this word is that it has two entirely different meanings. Prior to the '80s, it meant “gross” or “disgusting.”

Yet, people in the '80s changed this word forever when they decided to start using it to say something is excellent. Somehow, this word still works perfectly for both definitions!