Chronology

Slang by era

Each era collects the expressions attested in that window. Year ranges reflect documented usage, not the first recorded utterance.

Jazz Age

1920–1935

Jazz Age · 1920–1935

the bee's knees

The finest example of something; an object of the highest approval.

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Interwar

1920–1949

Interwar · 1920–1949

baloney

Nonsense; a claim treated as obviously untrue.

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Bebop

1940–1959

Bebop · 1940–1959

cool cat

A person with easy confidence and style.

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Mid-century

1950–1989

Mid-century · 1950–1989

make like a tree and leave

To depart abruptly, delivered as a dismissive joke.

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Counterculture

1960–1979

Counterculture · 1960–1979

far out

Excellent or impressive, often with a sense of pleasant surprise.

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Hip-hop era

1990–2015

Hip-hop era · 1990–2015

bounce

To leave a place quickly.

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Streaming era

2005–2026

Streaming era · 2005–2026

dip

To exit suddenly, often without announcement.

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Streaming era · 2010–2026

fire

Outstanding, of very high quality.

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Streaming era · 2015–2026

cap

A lie or exaggeration; "no cap" asserts truthfulness.

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Streaming era · 2021–2026

rizz

Charisma, especially the ability to attract a romantic interest.

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