The Most Popular 90s Slang Words & Phrases: 40 Hella Bomb Sayings

PDF download Download Article
90s lingo to take you back to the grunge-filled era
PDF download Download Article

Bucket hats, baggy jeans, Biggie Smalls, Backstreet Boys, Beanie Babies…the 1990s left behind no shortage of iconic moments, mementos, and memorable slang! Among the nostalgic grunge and rise of the internet, slang in the 90s took on a life of its own. Many of these 1990s sayings were co-opted from African-American Vernacular English (AAVE), while others came from mainstream media and pop culture (thanks, Cher Horowitz!), but they’ve all had an enduring impact on the way we speak today. And, since we made it past Y2K, we now get to sit back, chillax , and revisit these slang terms from the era of Friends , Fresh Prince , Furby, flannels, and more!

Slang of the 90s: Top Phrases

  1. Fly: Super cool, stylish, or attractive. He looks so fly.
  2. Buggin’: Freaking out, being upset. I’m totally buggin’ right now.
  3. Chillax: Calm down or relax. Chillax, it’s no biggie.
  4. Da Bomb: Awesome, impressive, or excellent. Those shoes are da bomb.
  5. Phat: Excellent, cool, or attractive. That’s a phat beat on the new record.
1

Aight

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pronounced as ah-ahyt , this slang term became popular in the ‘90s after originating in Black English through hip-hop music and culture. “Aight” (also spelled as “aiight” and “ight”) can be used in the same way that you’d use “all right.” [1] In the ‘90s, it was common to ask someone if they were “all right” or “okay” by using this slangy phrase, but it could also be used as a filler word, an adjective, or a way to express affirmative approval like “yes” or “sounds good.”
    • Examples:
      • “Aight, I’ll meet you there.”
      • “These shoes are aight.”
      • “You feeling aight?” Will Smith raps this phrase in the song “I'm Looking for the One (To Be With Me.” [2]
    2. Advertisement
2

All that and a bag of chips

PDF download Download Article
  1. “All that and a bag of chips” implies that someone is arrogant or conceited. To be “all that” generally means to be amazing (or “da bomb,” as a 90s kid would say). So, being “all that and a bag of chips” might mean that someone is “all that” plus a little bit more—just like how a bag of chips is that extra treat used to round out a perfect meal deal. While this phrase can be used as a compliment, it was usually used in the ‘90s to criticize boastful or vain people who THOUGHT that they were “all that and a bag of chips.” [3]
    • Examples:
      • “He’s got such a superiority complex, he really thinks he’s all that and a bag of chips.”
      • “I’m really digging her vibe. She’s all that and a bag of chips!”
      • “You ain’t all that and a bag of potato chips.” Dr. Evil says this to the president in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999). [4]
3

As if!

PDF download Download Article
  1. “As if!” is a humorous way to express disbelief. “As if!” can be used as a humorous retort to show that you don’t believe that something is possible, or that you believe the opposite of what is being said. [5] The slangy exclamation became popular through the the 1995 movie Clueless , although writer-director Amy Heckerling credits the LGBTQIA+ community with coining and first using the term. [6]
    • Examples:
      • “He got a raise? As if!”
      • “ I’m going to apologize to her ? As if!”
      • “Ew, get off of me! Ugh, as if!” Cher Horowitz says this in Clueless when a boy she’s not interested in tries to grab her. [7]
    2. Advertisement
4

Bling!

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone’s looking to get blinged out, they’re likely loaded up with a bunch of shiny necklaces, bracelets, chains, and other glitzy accessories. This term is also associated with people who like to show off their wealth through flashy bling (!), like B.G. does in his 1999 track “Bling Bling.” This hip-hop song is largely credited with popularizing this term as an essential piece of 90s slang. [8]
    • Examples:
      • “He turned up all iced out with lots of bling.”
      • “That gold chain is a little too bling for my taste.”
      • “Bling bling, pinky ring worth about fifty.” B.G. sings this line in the song “Bling Bling.” [9]
5

Boo

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Boo” is a term of endearment used for a significant other. “Boo” or “boo thang” is an affectionate way to refer to one’s romantic partner. While “boo” may be related to the French beau (meaning “boyfriend” or “admirer”), it’s thought to have originated in hip hop culture before becoming more mainstream. [10]
    • Examples:
      • “I’m spending the night in with my boo, just vegging out and watching TV.”
      • “My boo set up some special surprise date for us. I’m so excited!”
      • “I can’t wait to see my long-distance boo. Just a few days away!”
    2. Advertisement
6

Booyah

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Booyah” is an interjection expressing satisfaction or accomplishment. You might shout “Booyah!” when something joyful, victorious, or exciting happens—like landing a sick skateboarding trick or leading your basketball team to win the state championship. It’s believed that “booyah” was first used by the California rap community to imitate the sound of gunfire, but it was widely popularized by ESPN sportscaster Stuart Scott. [11]
    • Examples:
      • “Booyah! What a goal!”
      • “That was amazing, dude! Boo-yah!”
      • “We’re unstoppable! Booya!”
7

Catch you on the flip side!

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You might also simply say “ I’ll see you on the flip side or even opt for the more flamboyant “catch you on the flippity flip.” Whatever informal phrase you use to say adiós to the people you’re hanging with, they’ll know that you’re telling them that you’re heading out, but you’ll see them later. Many people credit disk jockeys (DJs) with the creation of this term— they’d encourage radio listeners to keep tuning in after they flipped their record (“see you on the flip!”). [12]
    • Examples:
      • “I have to take this call, I’ll catch you on the flip side!”
      • “Okay, I just wrapped up so I’m gonna sign off. See you on the flip side!”
      • “Alright, I gotta head home to do some chores for my mom. Catch y’all on the flip!”
    2. Advertisement
8

Cha-ching

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Cha-ching” is used to say that someone’s gotten a large sum of money. As an exclamation, “cha-ching” (or “ka-ching”) is meant to sound like the sound of a cash register when a dollar amount is entered—sort of like a bell or chime sound. [13] In the ‘90s, the onomatopoeic phrase was at least partially popularized by Seth Green’s 1992 commercial for Rally’s Hamburgers. [14]
    • Examples:
      • “The money’s rolling in! Cha-ching, cha-ching!”
      • “Just got my first paycheck. Ka-ching!”
      • “Heard you got a raise! Cha-ching!”
9

Chillax

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Chillax” is a combination of “chill” and “relax.” As its combined words might tell you, “chillax” is basically a ~cool~ 1990s way of telling someone to chill out, calm down, relax, and take it easy. You might even use it to describe your current relaxed state, similar to “I’m chilling” or “I’m just hanging out.” While the slangy term definitely came about in the ‘90s, no one’s exactly sure who coined it! No need to worry about that though—we’re chillaxing. [15]
    • Examples:
      • “Chillax, bro.”
      • “Let’s just chillax with a nice glass of wine tonight.”
      • “She’s not worried, she’s chillaxing.”
    2. Advertisement
10

Cool beans!

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s similar to other phrases like “Awesome!” or “Sounds great!” “Cool beans” actually first became popular during the 1960s and 1970s thanks to comedy duo Cheech and Chong. However, “cool beans” saw an uptick in the ‘90s when Full House eldest daughter DJ tanner used the phrase frequently as a catchphrase. [16]
    • Examples:
      • “I just got promoted at work!” “Cool beans!”
      • “We’re gonna meet up at Casa Bonita later.” “Cool beans!”
      • “I finished my homework early, so I can hang tonight.” “Cool beans!”
11

Crunk

PDF download Download Article
  1. Being “crunk” means to be exceedingly excited or energetic. In some contexts, it can also mean that someone is under the influence of alcohol and cannabis simultaneously. Crunk is also a subgenre of up-tempo hip-hop that emerged in the Southern U.S. during the ‘90s. As a slang term, “crunk” comes from the African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) verb “to crank.” Basically, when you’re “cranked up” (or “crunk”), you’re hyped, pumped up, and full of energy (among other potential substances). [17]
    • Examples:
      • “I’m getting crunk tonight for sure.”
      • “He got crunk on some nasty vodka.”
      • “The label wants them to lean into some more crunk sounds with the new track.”
    2. Advertisement
12

Da bomb

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Da bomb” means that something’s “the bomb,” or very good. As one of the defining slang expressions of the ‘90s, “da bomb” is just another way to talk about how awesome, impressive, or excellent something is—from your sick new slap bracelet to the latest TLC single. [18] The popularity of “da bomb” during the nineties was at least partly due to Kriss Kross’ Da Bomb , which hit the airwaves in 1993. [19]
    • Examples:
      • “That new record is da bomb! I can’t stop listening to it!”
      • “You’re da bomb, dude! I love ya’!”
      • “Andy’s new chick is da bomb, man! She’s hella cool!”
13

Def

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Apparently, the youth of the 1990s decided that “definitely” was a bit too long for their tastes, so they came up with the hip, cool, and relaxed abbreviation of “def.” While “def” actually originated as a slang term in the 1980s, it more commonly was used to describe anything hip or trendy (“That’s so def”), while 90s kids used it more as a shortened “definitely.” [20]
    • Examples:
      • “Oh, I’ll def be there!”
      • “I can def pick that up for you later.”
      • “She’s def way too good for him.”
    2. Advertisement
14

Don’t go there

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Don’t go there” is a way to shut down a subject that’s too unpleasant. When someone says “don’t go there” in response to another statement, they’re basically saying that what’s being brought up is so controversial or unnecessary that there’s no point in discussing it. Like a lot of 90s “sound bite” slang, “don’t go there” has unclear origins. But, it is credited by some as starting with Black drag queens and later being brought to the mainstream by popular sitcoms like Martin . [21]
    • Examples:
      • “We could just lend her the money.” “Don’t even go there, we’re not lending her squat.”
      • “Don’t go there, he’s super old-fashioned and is just going to respond badly.”
      • “Jake and Katie were having this huge fight, then she brought up his past and he told her ‘don’t even go there.’”
15

Eat my shorts

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Eat my shorts” is a rude way to tell someone to stop bothering you. While “eat my shorts” was also a common slang phrase in the 1980s (see: John Bender), it’s most commonly associated with the ‘90s thanks to Bart Simpson using it as a catchphrase on The Simpsons (1989 - present). [22] “Eat my shorts” can be used as a comeback, retort, or a taunt by someone who’s trying to seem extra rebellious or tough.
    • Examples:
      • “Your shoes look hella dirty.” “Eat my shorts.”
      • “Eat my shorts, losers!”
      • “You just started school and the path you choose now may be the one you follow for the rest of your life. Now, what do you say?” “Eat my shorts!” Bart Simpson responds with this phrase to a disciplinary action from Principal Skinner. [23]
    2. Advertisement
16

Fly

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-16.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While the term has actually been in use as slang since the late 1880s, it became popularized through hip-hop culture and African American Vernacular English (AAVE) throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. So, it’s safe to say that “fly” has cemented itself as one of the best ways to describe the coolest and most creative among us! [24]
    • Examples:
      • “Check out my new sunglasses, they’re so fly.”
      • “Wow, I love the ‘fit. You’re looking fly as ever!”
      • “Did you see Clayton at the party last night? He looked so fly.”
17

Fo’ shizzle

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Fo’ shizzle” is a slangy way to say “for sure.” Just like you’d use “for sure,” you can use “fo’ shizzle” to express affirmation in a funny and informal way. To break it down further, “fo” is just a shortened version of “for,” while “shizzle” combines “sure” and “izzle.” “Izzle” is a slang device popular suffix used by rappers, so it makes since that “fo’ shizzle” was popularized by Snoop Dogg himself! [25]
    • Examples:
      • “I’ll be there fo’ shizzle.”
      • “She ain’t lying - that’s fo’ shizzle.”
      • “Fo’ shizzle, my dude.”
    2. Advertisement
18

Fresh

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Fresh” is a 90s slang term for something new, cool, or appealing. While “fresh” has had a number of slang term meanings throughout the decades, the 90s cultural wave used it to describe things that were fashionable, trendy, or hot-off-the-presses. [26]
    • Examples:
      • “Oooh those new Reeboks are so fresh.”
      • “Those Lisa Frank bags are so fresh, they just came out last week.”
      • “She’s so fresh, just started at the school yesterday.”
19

Gettin’ jiggy with it

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-19.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-19.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-19.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-19.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The word “jiggy” originated in Harlem and was used by East Coast rappers like Jay-Z (“Let’s get the dough and stay real jiggy”). [27] The full phrase “getting jiggy with it” generally means to do something in a cool way, often applying to dance moves or fashion taste. In some circles, “getting jiggy” may also be a way to describe having sexual relations. [28]
    • Examples:
      • “The DJ just started, let’s get jiggy with it!”
      • “Look at those moves! He’s getting jiggy with it!”
      • “Dancefloor pro, I know you know…Just can’t sit, gotta get jiggy wit’ it.” Will Smith sings this lyric on his 1997 song “Gettin' Jiggy Wit It,” which is partially credited with popularizing the phrase.
    2. Advertisement
20

Hella

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Hella” means “very” or “a lot of.” The popular slang term is believed to have come from the phrase “hell of a” or “hell of a lot,” but no one knows for sure! What we know for (hella) sure is that the word is largely associated with hip hop communities in the Bay Area of California, although its use definitely became more widespread throughout the ‘90s. [29]
    • Examples:
      • “I’m hella stoked for the party tonight.”
      • “There were hella people at the game last night.”
      • “She’s hella cool, can’t wait to see her again!” [30]
21

Home skillet

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Home skillet” is another way to refer to a “homie” or “friend.” Anyone who you’d call your “homie” or “home skillet” is probably one of your nearest and dearest pals, so this slang phrase was def a major term of endearment. While “home skillet” was widely used in the ‘90s, it stuck around to become popular once again in the upcoming noughties! [31]
    • Examples:
      • “Hey, home skillet!”
      • “‘Wassup, home skillet, how you doin’?”
      • “That’s my home skillet right over there!”
    2. Advertisement
22

Illmatic

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-22-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-22-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-22-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-22-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    “Ill” is a ‘90s slang term in its own right, being used in a similar way to “epic,” “legendary,” or “bomb.” [32] Taking the ill-factor up a notch, 1990s rapper Nas named his debut album Illmatic , sparking a whole new use of the slang term for things that went beyond just the basic meaning of ill. [33]
    • Examples:
      • “That new Dr. Dre CD is so ill (matic).”
      • “Those shoes are beyond ill, they’re ill (matic).”
      • “You got some height on that jump, so totally ill (matic)!”
23

I’m outtie

PDF download Download Article
  1. “I’m outtie” is another way to say “I’m leaving,” but in a relatively urgent way. Someone might say “I’m outtie” if they’re at a party, for instance, and are just about ready to walk out the door. [34] The phrase probably is an abbreviation of “I’m out of here,” but it also evolved to be spoken as “I’m Audi 5000,” referencing the car model. [35] This clever car-related twist on the slang term was popularized by the film Reality Bites (1994).
    • Examples:
      • “This party is lame, I’m outtie.”
      • “Dee, I’m outtie.” Cher says this to her bestie Dionne in Clueless (1995) when walking away from an argument that “Dee” is having with her boyfriend. [36]
      • “The band may be a small dream, but it’s the only one I’ve got. I’m Audi 5000.” This line appears in an end credits sketch in Reality Bites. [37]
    2. Advertisement
24

I’m totally buggin’

PDF download Download Article
  1. “I’m totally buggin’” means that the speaker is freaked out or confused. “Bugging” or “buggin’” is similar to “trippin’”—both words describe a state of upset, speechlessness, or irrationality. [38] While the slang term and phrase probably originated among New York youth, it reached icon status thanks to its use as one of Cher Horowitz’ catchphrases in Clueless (1995). [39]
    • Examples:
      • “I didn’t study at all for the test, I’m totally buggin’.”
      • “You’re totally buggin’ if you think I’m going to that party.”
      • “People came that, like, did not RSVP, so I was, like, totally buggin’.” Alicia Silverstone says this as Cher in Clueless when recounting how some people did not RSVP to her sit-down dinner during a speech on U.S. refugee policy. [40]
25

Let’s bounce

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-25.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-25.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-25.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-25.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you lived in the ‘90s and wanted to leave a party or event in the most chill, cool, and trendy way, you might say “let’s bounce.” Basically, this popular ‘90s slang phrase meant that you were ready to head out from wherever you were at that moment. Some 1990s expressions with the same meaning include “let’s jet,” “let’s dip,” and “let’s blow this popsicle stand.” [41]
    • Examples:
      • “This party is lame, let’s bounce.”
      • “I’m super drained, can we bounce?”
      • “Let’s bounce and head to that club over on Sunset.”
    2. Advertisement
26

My bad

PDF download Download Article
  1. “My bad” was a casual way to say “I’m sorry” in the ‘90s. The 1990s had slang for everything—even for messing up or making a mistake! Instead of sticking with a classic “I’m sorry” or “that was my fault,” speakers of 90s slang would simply say “ my bad .” This phrase seemingly arose out of urban American culture, but it has since become so pervasive that most people today wouldn’t even consider it as slang! [42]
    • Examples:
      • “You brought the wrong book.” “Oh, my bad, I’ll go get the other one.”
      • “That was totally my bad, man, I’m sorry.”
      • “I think I was the one who left the office keys at home, oops! My bad!”
27

Not!

PDF download Download Article
  1. Not! is used as a humorous interjection to negate the previous statement. In simpler terms, folks in the ‘90s (and beyond) would say an untrue sentence followed by “not!” This slang combo is usually used in a teasing way to jokingly offend someone or point out the ridiculousness of a statement, similar to how it was popularized in Wayne’s World (1992). “Not!” was also named the Word of the Year by the American Dialect Society in 1992. [43]
    • Examples:
      • “That dress is so cute. Not!”
      • “He’s such a nice guy. Not!”
      • “I can’t wait for school tomorrow. Not!”
    2. Advertisement
28

Off the hook

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-28.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-28.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-28.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-28.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While “off the hook” has many meanings in the English language, its primary slang definition is to talk about something that’s super exciting, wild, or fun. [44] For instance, you might describe a happening party as “off the hook” or even “off the hizzy.” [45]
    • Examples:
      • “That party was off the hook!”
      • “Did you catch the game last night? The half-time show was off the hook!”
      • “That DJ set was off the hizzy.”
29

Oh, snap!

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Oh, snap!” is an expression of surprise, dismay, or agreement. “Oh, snap!” can be used in a variety of contexts—similar to the almost-identical phrase that swaps “snap” out for a different four-letter word. When something gives you a funny or amusing shock, you might acknowledge or agree with it with an excited “Oh, snap!” While “Oh, snap!” can be used in a variety of contexts, it’s often used to react to a clever comeback or insult. [46]
    • Examples:
      • “Maybe you should mind your business then!” “Oh, snap! He didn’t just say that to her.”
      • “Oh, snap, she’s about to go off on him.”
      • “Oh, snap, I mixed in too much bleach.”
    2. Advertisement
30

Phat

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Phat” (pretty hot and tempting) means excellent, cool, or super attractive. The “phat” acronym was one of the most popular ways to define anything as “cool” during the 90s, although it was originally used to describe a sexy woman with shapely curves. The term comes from African-American hip hop slang and became mainstream through the nineties, but later lost favor and isn’t used by modern teens and adults. [47]
    • Examples:
      • “Woah, that song has a phat beat!”
      • “She’s gonna look well phat in that dress.”
      • “Rollin’ with the phatness, you don’t even know what the half is.” Blackstreet and Dr. Dre rap this line in their 1996 collab “No Diggity.”
31

Righteous

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-31.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-31.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-31.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-31.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The modern popularization of this term is actually credited to the 1980s, when Southern California surfers started to use it as a way to describe something awesome or excitedly agree with someone. This meaning endured throughout the ‘90s, when “righteous” was yet another popular slang word to describe the hippest and most impressive things of the era. [48]
    • Examples:
      • “Righteous wave, man!”
      • “That move was righteous.”
      • “There’s a righteous dude right over there.”
    2. Advertisement
32

Schwing

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Schwing” is a slang term for expressing attraction for someone. This lusty piece of nineties slang is usually used as an exclamation when someone’s seen a person that they’re attracted to. [49] For instance, if you see a nice-looking person walking down the street, you might turn to your pals and say, “Schwing!” This word was heavily popularized by the movie Wayne’s World (1992) and is meant to emulate the sound of a heavy sword being pulled out of a scabbard (with some implied double entendres). [50]
    • Examples:
      • “Did you see that girl? Schwing!”
      • “Wow, he looks like a movie star! Schwing!”
      • “Schwing! She’s a babe! She’s magically babe-licious!” [51]
33

Scrub

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Scrub” is used to describe a person who’s broke or without prospects. In the 1990s, a “scrub” was someone (typically a man) who didn’t have any money and wasn’t working hard to build themselves up or improve their financial situation. The slang term is famously heard in (and possibly created by) the TLC song “No Scrubs,” in which the R&B singers lament about men who think they’re ~all that~ but don’t have enough money or ambition to take a girl out on a proper date. [52]
    • Examples:
      • “He never tries to get a job and lives in his mom’s basement. He’s such a scrub.”
      • “He made me pay for the entire date that he invited me on! What a scrub.”
      • “A scrub is a guy that thinks he's fly / And is also known as a busta / Always talkin' about what he wants / And just sits on his broke a**.” This lyric from TLC’s hit song “No Scrubs” succinctly describes the ‘90s scrub! [53]
    2. Advertisement
34

Sitch

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-34.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-34.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-34.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-34.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The slang term “sitch” can be used in any situation ( oof ) where you would use the word “situation” – now try saying that five times fast! Jokes aside, “sitch” is a simple replacement for “situation” that can be used in more casual settings among friends and peers. It’s commonly cited as one of the “Buffy-isms” popularized by the hit TV show Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003). [54]
    • Examples:
      • “Here’s the sitch: he’s been telling her his side of the story and got totally exposed as a liar!”
      • “Depending on your sitch, it might be easier to just rent a car rather than bus.”
      • “What’s the sitch? What do you know about her?” Xander, one of the key members of Buffy ’s Scooby Gang, uses this phrase to ask about Buffy when she’s introduced as the new girl in town. [55]
35

Talk to the hand

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Talk to the hand” expresses that you don’t care about what someone says. A sarcastic phrase, “talk to the hand” means that you want the person you’re speaking with to stop talking, but it’s usually used in a humorous way. [56] It may even be extended to the longer expression “talk to the hand, because the ears ain’t listening!” Originating in Black American English, the 90s slang phrase became popular on mainstream TV through The Jerry Springer Show. [57]
    • Examples:
      • “I’m done with this conversation. Talk to the hand!”
      • “Talk to the hand because the face ain’t listening.”
      • “You know what I have to say to that? You can talk to the hand.”
    2. Advertisement
36

The shiznit

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Shiznit” is another word for “cool” or “superior.” Commonly used with “the” to call something “ the shiznit,” this slang term is really just a less vulgar version of a similar word (try removing the “z,” “n,” and “i”). When something is the “shiznit,” or even just the “shiz,” it’s probably the most impressive, interesting, or hip thing that anyone can think of. [58]
    • Examples:
      • “I can’t believe you just did that. You’re the shiznit!”
      • “This pizza is the shiznit.”
      • “Pepsi is nowhere near the best soda. Mountain Dew is the shiznit!”
37

Veg out

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-37.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-37.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-37.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-37.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In modern times, you might say “I’m gonna rot all day,” meaning that you want to just spend the day laying in bed or lazing around your house. In the nineties, this same meaning was expressed with the phrase “veg out!” A little bit on the morbid side, this slang term’s meaning comes from the connection between vegetables and mental incapacitation, but it originated in the 1990 film Pretty Woman . [59]
    • Examples:
      • “Work was awful this week, I’m just gonna veg out this weekend and catch up on my shows.”
      • “I’m not coming to the party tonight, I’m just gonna be vegging out.”
      • “Let’s watch old movies all night and we’ll just veg out in front of the TV.” “Veg out?” “Yeah, be still like vegetables. Lay like broccoli.” Romantic leads Vivian and Edward have this exchange during a key scene in Pretty Woman . [60]
    2. Advertisement
38

Wassup?

PDF download Download Article
  1. “Wassup?” is a casual way to greet someone or ask how they’re doing. As an informal version of “what’s up?,” “wassup” or the even more cazh “‘sup” can both be used to say hello or ask a person how they are. You might say “wassup?” when meeting up with your friends, picking up the phone, or asking why someone’s looking down. [61]
    • Examples:
      • “Hey, Jackie, wassup?”
      • “Wassup? I haven’t seen you around in awhile!
      • “Yo, it’s okay, man, wassup?”
39

What’s the 411?

PDF download Download Article
  1. “What’s the 411?” is a way to ask for the latest info or gossip. The code “411” (pronounced four-one-one) became slang for general information in the 1980s, since callers would dial 411 to contact “information” or “directory assistance.” In the nineties, the phrase evolved into “what’s the 411?” and “give me the 411,” meaning that the speaker wants the latest updates (or “ tea ,” according to more modern lingo). [62]
    • Examples:
      • “It’s been so long since we last caught up! What’s the 411 with you?”
      • “What’s the 411 on tomorrow’s party?”
      • “She gave me the 411 on everything that happened last weekend.”
    2. Advertisement
40

Whatever!

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-40.jpg\/v4-460px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-40.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-40.jpg\/v4-728px-Slang-from-the-90%27s-Step-40.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Often considered a rude, bratty, or snide slang word, “whatever” is synonymous with a sardonic “whatever you say” or “I don’t care what you say.” Basically, you don’t want to listen to or do what the person asked, but you also don’t want to argue about it. [63] It was particularly popular among ‘90s teenagers who might dismiss their parents by tossing out this comment.
    • Examples:
      • “You need to do your homework before dinner.” “Whatever, mom.”
      • “Nick said that? Whatever, he’s so annoying.”
      • “Whatever, if she doesn’t do the assignment, I can’t do mine.” The character of Amber in Clueless (1995) makes this remark to Cher, dismissing the story she’s telling as stupid and irrelevant. [64]

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      Everything You Need to Know About Skibidi & Skibidi Toilet
      What Does "Sigma" Mean on TikTok?
      What Does "Bop" Mean in Slang & Why Is It Problematic for Girls?
      What Does "I'm Cooked" Mean? TikTok Slang, Explained
      What Does "Unc Status" Mean?
      What does "2 Man" Mean?
      What Did Doc Holliday Mean by “I’m Your Huckleberry”?
      Everything You Need to Know About the “My Roman Empire” TikTok Trend
      What Is Glazing?
      What Does GGG Mean?
      Your Ultimate Guide to Millennial Slang
      What Zesty Really Means on TikTok
      What Does the Slang Term “FAFO” Mean? (Plus How to Use It)
      What Does Fanum Tax Mean & Where Did It Come From?
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/aight
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/6JsgY2PXWAg?t=49
      3. ↑ https://tastecooking.com/all-that-and-a-bag-of-chips/
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/_Lgrr48ELPM?t=9
      5. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/as-if
      6. ↑ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/as-clueless-director-amy-heckerling-871781/
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/hO1mSf8l6MA?t=74
      8. ↑ https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/bling
      9. ↑ https://genius.com/Bg-bling-bling-lyrics
      1. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/old-dating-slang/
      2. ↑ https://www.slate.com/blogs/lexicon_valley/2015/01/05/stuart_scott_booyah_espn_sportscaster_will_be_remembered_for_exuberantly.html
      3. ↑ https://livexp.com/blog/meaning-and-use-of-see-you-on-the-flip-side/?utm_source=blog-en&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=%2Fblog%2Fmeaning-and-use-of-see-you-on-the-flip-side%2F
      4. ↑ https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/cha-ching
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/KdjVZr1P7FU?t=12
      6. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/chillax
      7. ↑ https://www.khon2.com/news/national/what-cool-beans-and-50-other-old-timey-slang-words-mean/
      8. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/browse/crunk
      9. ↑ https://www.berlitz.com/blog/new-york-nyc-slang
      10. ↑ https://genius.com/Kris-kross-da-bomb-lyrics
      11. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/def
      12. ↑ https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/library/magazine/home/20000123mag-onlanguage.html
      13. ↑ https://screenrant.com/the-simpsons-barts-best-catchphrases/
      14. ↑ https://youtu.be/0WXJD4OKl8o?t=18
      15. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/cancel-culture-background-black-culture-white-grievance/2021/04/01/2e42e4fe-8b24-11eb-aff6-4f720ca2d479_story.html
      16. ↑ https://youtu.be/PiAvfcfIzac?t=18
      17. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang-for-cool/
      18. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/know-rap-slang-regional/
      19. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/browse/jiggy
      20. ↑ https://www.kqed.org/news/10649552/the-origins-of-hella
      21. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/s/nineties-words/#hella-cool
      22. ↑ https://hellogiggles.com/90s-slang-need-bring-back-immediately/
      23. ↑ https://sites.pitt.edu/~emk4/comp1/ill.html
      24. ↑ https://revolt.tv/article/2019-04-19/44400/9-illmatic-facts-you-didnt-know
      25. ↑ https://urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=outtie
      26. ↑ https://www.thedailybeast.com/clueless-glossary-buggin-cake-boy-and-more-90s-slang-from-the-film
      27. ↑ https://youtu.be/B-Kuvzjlud8?t=83
      28. ↑ https://www.brightwalldarkroom.com/2019/03/13/reality-bites-25-year-anniversary/
      29. ↑ https://www.berlitz.com/blog/new-york-nyc-slang
      30. ↑ https://screenrant.com/clueless-quotes-totally-bugging-movie/
      31. ↑ https://youtu.be/Yf7MT1p1VNI?t=50
      32. ↑ https://hellogiggles.com/90s-slang-need-bring-back-immediately/
      33. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/my-bad
      34. ↑ https://americandialect.org/woty/all-of-the-words-of-the-year-1990-to-present/#1992
      35. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/be-off-the-hook
      36. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang-for-cool/
      37. ↑ https://slang.net/meaning/oh_snap
      38. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/browse/phat
      39. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/7-great-words-for-great
      40. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/submission/10467/Schwing
      41. ↑ https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=schwing%21%21
      42. ↑ https://youtu.be/Zm8UFuuubro?t=14
      43. ↑ https://www.revolt.tv/article/51-hip-hop-slang-terms-that-went-mainstream
      44. ↑ https://genius.com/Tlc-no-scrubs-with-rap-lyrics
      45. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/sitch-slang-shortening-alteration-situation
      46. ↑ https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/buffyisms-10-phrases-popularized-by-788745/
      47. ↑ https://hellogiggles.com/90s-slang-need-bring-back-immediately/
      48. ↑ https://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1453_uptodate3/page19.shtml
      49. ↑ https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=the%20shiznit
      50. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/veg%20out
      51. ↑ https://youtu.be/sS0zd6O_hNU?t=16
      52. ↑ https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/wassup
      53. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/word-history-on-information-words
      54. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/whatevs
      55. ↑ https://youtu.be/Yf7MT1p1VNI?t=95

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,577 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement