12 Vintage Slang Phrases from the ’90s That Deserve a Comeback
The ‘90s gave us some of the best things in pop culture, including grunge music, butterfly clips, slap bracelets, and the golden era of Nickelodeon. But let’s not forget one of the decade’s greatest contributions: slang.
Whether you were chilling at the mall, watching TRL, or trying to beat your high score on Snake (RIP to all the Nokias that didn’t make it), your vocabulary was packed with words that were totally da bomb. Sadly, much of that linguistic gold has faded into history. But why should it stay there?
Some of these words are just too good to let go. So, grab your Discman, pop in your favorite mixtape, and let’s bring back 12 of the best ‘90s slang words that deserve a second life.
1. Phat
Before thicc took over, we had phat—meaning cool, stylish, or impressive. It wasn’t just about looks; anything could be phat, from a new pair of JNCO jeans to a fresh track from Tupac.
Honestly, it’s way more fun to say than “fire,” so let’s make it happen again.
2. All That and a Bag of Chips
Back in the day, saying something was all that meant it was amazing—but if it was “all that and a bag of chips,” it was next-level.
Think of it as the ‘90s way of saying top-tier, S-tier, or GOAT before those terms existed. It’s time to reclaim this ultimate compliment.
3. Talk to the Hand
The original way to shut down an argument before texting “k.” With a sassy palm in the air, this phrase let someone know their words were irrelevant, ignored, and completely dismissed.
It’s dramatic, it’s fun, and honestly, we need this energy back.
4. Booyah!
A verbal mic drop before mic drops were a thing. Whether you just aced a test, won a game of GoldenEye 007, or successfully avoided getting slimed, booyah was the ultimate victory cry.
It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s way more satisfying than just saying “W.”
5. Da Bomb
Everything was da bomb in the ‘90s—movies, sneakers, your best friend’s new haircut. It was the ultimate seal of approval.
And let’s be real, doesn’t “That new song is da bomb” sound way better than “That slaps”?
6. As If!
Immortalized by Clueless, this was the perfect way to reject something with maximum attitude. Whether shutting down a bad idea, a cringe-worthy outfit, or someone’s unwanted flirting attempt, as if! had a built-in eye-roll.
Honestly, it’s way more fun than just saying “nah.”
7. No Duh
A sassier way of saying “obviously”, no duh was essential for pointing out the painfully clear. If someone asked, “Do you like pizza?” or “Is the sky blue?” you hit them with a no duh.
It’s basically the ‘90s version of “tell me something I don’t know.”
8. Home Skillet
Before bro, dude, or bestie, we had home skillet—a top-tier term for your close friend or partner-in-crime.
Whether you were scheming your next blockbuster sleepover or just hanging at the food court, your home skillet always had your back.
9. Word
Simple, powerful, and versatile. Word was the ‘90s way of saying “I agree,” “That’s true,” or even just “cool.”
It worked in every situation—whether someone made a deep point or just told you Space Jam was still the greatest movie of all time (which, by the way, word).
10. Gettin’ Jiggy
Thanks to Will Smith, gettin’ jiggy became the ultimate phrase for having a good time, dancing, or letting loose.
Why say “vibing” when you can say “gettin’ jiggy with it”? Exactly.
11. Scrub
Popularized by TLC’s anthem No Scrubs, this was the perfect term for someone who was lazy, broke, or just not worth your time.
It was the ultimate callout, and honestly, with so many modern-day scrubs still out there, this word needs a full comeback.
12. Wassup?
The ‘90s had many ways to say hello, but nothing beats wassup? Whether you were casually greeting a friend or recreating the legendary Budweiser commercial (WAAASSUUUPPP!!!), this was the go-to phrase.
It’s way more iconic than a plain “hey,” and we should definitely bring it back.