The 1960s was a time of cultural revolution, and with it came a unique slang vocabulary that captured the era’s spirit. These phrases were the height of cool, used by teens and adults alike to express everything from excitement to disapproval. But times have changed, and if you dropped one of these groovy sayings in conversation today, you might get a few raised eyebrows or confused stares. Let’s take a nostalgic look at 12 popular 1960s sayings that would get you funny looks today.
1. “Groovy”
In the ’60s, “groovy” was the ultimate compliment. It meant something was fantastic, cool, or just plain awesome. Whether it was music, fashion, or a good vibe, calling it groovy was the way to show approval.
Today, “groovy” feels like a caricature of the era. If you called someone’s outfit groovy, they might think you’re joking—or that you’ve just stepped out of a time machine. While it still has a certain charm, this once-iconic word doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue in modern conversations.
2. “Far out”
If something was especially surprising or amazing in the ’60s, it was “far out.” This phrase reflected the counterculture’s love for the unconventional and the extraordinary, often used to describe mind-blowing experiences or ideas.
Nowadays, “far out” sounds more like a dad’s attempt to be hip than a genuine expression of awe. It’s the kind of phrase that might draw a laugh, but only because it feels so hopelessly tied to the flower power generation.
3. “Sock it to me”
Popularized by Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, “Sock it to me” was a playful way to say, “Give it to me!” or “Lay it on me!” It could mean anything from delivering some truth to throwing down a challenge.
Today, this saying feels more like a relic of a cheesy comedy sketch than everyday language. Most people wouldn’t know how to respond to it without cracking a joke themselves.
4. “Right on”
“Right on” was a catch-all term for agreement or encouragement. Whether someone shared an idea you liked or did something impressive, “right on” was the way to show your approval and solidarity.
While it’s still used occasionally, it has largely been replaced by phrases like “totally” or “for sure.” Dropping “right on” into casual conversation today might leave people wondering if you’re quoting a ’60s movie.
5. “Outta sight”
When something was exceptionally cool or impressive, it was “outta sight.” It could describe anything from a great song to a stunning outfit, and it was a staple of the era’s slang.
If you said “outta sight” today, most people might think you’re talking about losing track of something. The once-hip phrase now feels more like a joke than a genuine compliment.
6. “What a gas”
If you had a great time, you’d say, “What a gas!” This saying reflected the carefree, fun-loving vibe of the ’60s, often used to describe parties, concerts, or other good times.
These days, saying something was “a gas” would likely draw some chuckles or confusion. It’s one of those phrases that perfectly encapsulates its era but doesn’t translate well to modern slang.
7. “Dig it”
To “dig” something was to understand or appreciate it. If someone explained something profound or pointed out something cool, you’d say, “I dig it.”
While the phrase occasionally pops up in retro-themed shows or movies, it’s not something you hear in everyday speech anymore. Using it today might make people wonder if you’re being ironic—or just channeling your inner hippie.
8. “Bread” (for money)
In the ’60s, “bread” was slang for money. If you were broke, you had no bread, and if you landed a good gig, you’d say, “That’s some serious bread!”
Modern slang has moved on to terms like “cash,” “bucks,” or even “bank,” making “bread” feel quaint and outdated. Dropping this term into conversation might leave people wondering why you’re talking about groceries instead of finances.
9. “Split”
When it was time to leave, you’d say, “Let’s split.” It was a simple, no-nonsense way to announce your departure, often used by teens heading out with friends.
Today, saying “split” in this context might draw a confused look, as most people now say “bounce,” “dip,” or just “head out.” While it’s still understandable, it sounds undeniably retro.
10. “Flower power”
A rallying cry of the counterculture movement, “flower power” symbolized peace, love, and resistance to war. It was often used as a slogan or playful term to describe the ideals of the hippie generation.
Today, it’s more likely to be used as a nostalgic joke or reference to the ’60s. In a modern conversation, mentioning “flower power” might make people think you’re talking about a theme party or a retro costume.
11. “Can you dig it?”
This phrase was a way of asking if someone understood or agreed with you. It had a cool, conversational tone that made it feel more like an invitation to join in than a simple question.
If you asked “Can you dig it?” today, it might sound more like you’re quoting an old movie than actually asking for someone’s opinion. It’s a phrase that still carries charm but feels out of place in a modern context.
12. “Keep on truckin’”
This saying encouraged perseverance and positivity, often accompanied by the iconic cartoon of a strutting man. It was a motivational phrase that captured the laid-back yet determined spirit of the decade.
In today’s world, “keep on truckin’” feels more like a joke about long-haul drivers than a genuine piece of advice. While its sentiment still resonates, the phrase itself has been left in the dust of time.
These sayings perfectly capture the colorful, free-spirited essence of the 1960s, even if they feel hilariously out of place today. Which of these phrases do you remember hearing—or using—and which ones would you never dare say now? Let’s celebrate the language of an unforgettable era!
