50s Slang: 7 Phrases That Should Make a Comeback

Every era has its own unique style. From technology and fashion to surviving the daily grind and our methods of communication – every aspect of humanity has changed and evolved with each passing decade.

When it comes to 1950s slang, it has to be said that they certainly had a way with words. Their phrases, although outdated by today’s standards, have a certain charm that makes them fun to hear and say.

1. Cruisin' for a Bruisin'

What it means: This phrase is another way of saying that someone is looking for trouble.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “You’re cruisin’ for a bruisin’ if you don’t stop talking about people behind their backs.”


2. Big Tickle

What it means: Something that is really funny.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “Watching this TV show never fails to give me a big tickle.”


3. Beat Fee

What it means: To get away or run quickly, usually to avoid getting into trouble.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “We better beat feet before the fuzz catches us tagging this wall.”


4. Copacetic

What it means: Refers to things being fine or all right.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “Everything is copacetic, so there’s no need to alarm your folks over it.”


5. The Kibosh

What it means: To put a stop to something.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “My friends and I were set to go on a cruise tonight, but my brother found out about it and put the kibosh on our plans.”


6. Word From The Bird

What it means: Telling something true, sharing a fact.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “No-one can stop me from attending tonight’s dance on American Bandstand, and that’s the word from the bird.”


7. Ring-A-Ding-Ding

What it means: Refers to something exciting, commonly used in a sarcastic sense. Frank Sinatra often used the catchphrase back in the day.

How to use this slang in a sentence: “Ring-a-ding-ding, the soda shop accidentally gave me two cherries on my sundae.”