The phrase "totally tubular" instantly transports us back to the vibrant, neon-soaked decade of the 1980s. But where did this iconic slang term, and others like it, originate? And why do we still find ourselves using (or at least recognizing) these phrases today? This deep dive into the lexicon of the 80s will explore the origins of "totally tubular" and other popular slang, highlighting their cultural impact and enduring legacy.
What Does "Totally Tubular" Even Mean?
Before we delve into its origins, let's clarify the meaning. "Totally tubular" was slang used to describe something excellent, cool, or awesome. It connoted a sense of excitement and approval, often associated with the radical wave of surfing and skateboarding culture that heavily influenced 80s youth culture. The word "tubular" itself referenced the shape of a wave, suggesting something as exhilarating and exciting as riding a perfect wave. The addition of "totally" amplified the intensity of the approval.
Where Did "Totally Tubular" Come From?
Pinpointing the precise origin of "totally tubular" is difficult. Like many slang terms, it likely emerged organically from the youth culture of the early to mid-1980s, spreading through word-of-mouth and popular media. There's no single inventor or definitive moment of creation. However, its widespread adoption can be attributed to its use in movies, television shows, and music of the era. Think of the playful, energetic vibe of 80s teen comedies; this slang perfectly captured that feeling.
Other Popular 80s Slang Terms
"Totally tubular" wasn't alone. The 80s were a goldmine of memorable slang, each reflecting the decade's unique trends and attitudes. Some notable examples include:
- Rad: Short for "radical," another term for something cool or excellent.
- Bogus: The opposite of "rad," meaning something fake, lame, or undesirable.
- Gag me with a spoon: An expression of disgust or disbelief.
- Psych!: An exclamation used to playfully deceive or surprise someone.
- Awesome: While not exclusive to the 80s, its popularity soared during this decade.
- Wicked: Similar to "rad" or "awesome," indicating something great.
Why Did 80s Slang Become So Popular?
The popularity of 80s slang can be linked to several factors:
- Youth Culture's Influence: The 80s saw a significant rise in youth-oriented media, like MTV and teen comedies, which often featured and reinforced this unique vocabulary.
- Desire for Self-Expression: Slang allowed young people to create their own identity and differentiate themselves from previous generations.
- Spread Through Media: Movies, TV shows, and music played a huge role in popularizing and spreading these terms across various demographics.
Is 80s Slang Still Relevant Today?
While some 80s slang may seem dated, many terms persist in our everyday language, albeit often used ironically or with a sense of nostalgia. The enduring appeal of this slang stems from its association with a vibrant and influential cultural era. Moreover, the terms' simplicity and expressive nature make them easy to understand and use, regardless of the passing years.
What Other Slang Terms Were Popular in the 80s?
This question is broad and could fill an entire encyclopedia! Besides those already mentioned, other 80s slang included terms related to specific subcultures, such as those within skateboarding, breakdancing, and the burgeoning punk and new wave music scenes. Researching specific subcultures of the 80s will uncover many more slang terms unique to those groups.
How Did 80s Slang Impact Language Today?
80s slang has undoubtedly impacted contemporary language. Many words and phrases, while evolving in meaning or usage, still resonate today. This influence highlights the lasting power of cultural trends and the way language evolves organically over time. The playful, expressive nature of this slang helped pave the way for future generations of informal language.
Conclusion: Totally Tubular Times!
"Totally tubular" and other 80s slang terms are more than just forgotten words; they're cultural artifacts that reflect the attitudes, trends, and spirit of a generation. Their enduring legacy highlights the enduring influence of pop culture and the way language continuously evolves and adapts to reflect the times. So, the next time you hear someone say something is "rad," remember the totally tubular times of the 80s!
