Last week, while at the gym, a young guy told me I had “cakes.” Honestly, I was caught off guard since I’m not exactly in tune with today’s slang. After a chat with my friend’s teenage daughter, I learned that “cakes” refers to having a sizable rear end. I’ve never thought of myself as having a Kardashian-esque backside, but I guess “big” is subjective. Let’s just say my behind is definitely more ample than that of the skinny guy who made the remark. But hey, I can ride my bike for miles without discomfort, so call me “Little Debbie” if you want!
Language is fascinating, especially how it shifts and transforms over generations. Some phrases endure and thrive, while others fade into obscurity. I hadn’t really reflected on the slang of my own ’80s era until my 11-year-old son asked, “What does ‘I’m so sure’ mean?” I was surprised to realize I still use this expression, often in moments of exasperation. When my kids spill cat food all over and then ignore it, I exclaim, “I’m so sure!” Or when one son punches another for no reason, those words escape my lips: “I’m so sure!” Even when I ask my child to clean the toilet, and he makes just one half-hearted attempt, my eyebrows raise as I declare, “I’m so sure!”
Clearly, I still embrace some of that ’80s vernacular—why not? We created some iconic phrases! Who could forget gems like:
- Gag me with a spoon
- Grody to the max
- Barf me out
- Tubular
- Rad
- Righteous
- Gnarly
- Totally awesome
- Like, totally
- Like, whatever
- Très
- Don’t have a cow, man
- Take a chill pill
- No, duh
- Damn skippy
- Word
- Anything with “-amundo” added on (like “I’m starving-amundo!”)
My brother was the true champion of ’80s slang, frequently uttering “I dogged you” or simply “Face!” while rubbing his chin. If he could bring back any term, I’m sure it would be “face,” just so he could sprint to the elevator and shout it.
I suggested my son try reviving “I’m so sure,” given how often I use it around the house. He just rolled his eyes and reminded me that he and his friends have their own modern expressions. Sure, they do. But can anything really beat “Don’t have a cow, man” or “Gag me with a spoon”? I mean, no duh!
When I asked friends for phrases they used back then that have since vanished, my buddy Jake chimed in with, “Dial the phone.” Word.
In the spirit of nostalgia, you might want to explore some contemporary insights into home insemination, like the CryoBaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit Combo or the comprehensive BabyMaker At Home Insemination Kit. For those seeking more information about pregnancy options, Healthline offers an excellent resource on IVF and more.
Summary
Reflecting on the catchy phrases of the ’80s brings back fond memories, even as new slang takes hold. While the era’s expressions may fade, their quirky charm remains timeless. Whether it’s about our childhood lingo or current parenting topics, there’s always something to learn and share.
Keyphrase: ’80s slang phrases
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]