The phrase "totally tubular" is synonymous with 1980s slang, instantly conjuring images of rad dudes, awesome waves, and neon-colored everything. But where did this iconic phrase originate? This deep dive investigates the origins of "totally tubular," exploring its history, usage, and lasting cultural impact. We'll even tackle some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding this quintessential 80s expression.
What Does "Totally Tubular" Mean?
Before we delve into its origins, let's clarify the meaning. "Totally tubular" was used as an exclamation of approval, excitement, or something considered exceptionally cool or excellent. It conveyed a sense of enthusiasm and was often used to describe anything deemed "awesome" by the standards of the era. Think killer skateboarding tricks, epic concerts, or that new wave album you just scored.
When Did "Totally Tubular" Become Popular?
Pinpointing the precise origin of "totally tubular" is surprisingly difficult. While it's strongly associated with the mid-to-late 1980s, it didn't emerge fully formed. Linguists suggest it evolved organically from existing slang, incorporating the intensifier "totally" (already popular in the 70s) with "tubular," which likely borrowed its meaning of "excellent" or "outstanding" from surfing culture, where a "tubular" wave was a perfectly formed, rideable wave. The combination created a potent expression of youthful exuberance. Its widespread adoption was fueled by its use in popular culture, especially in movies and television shows of the time.
Was "Totally Tubular" Used in Any Specific Movie or TV Show First?
There's no single definitive source for the phrase's first appearance. Its organic evolution makes tracing its origins to a specific moment challenging. While many 80s films and TV shows employed the term, solidifying its association with the decade, none can be definitively credited as the originator. Its popularity likely stemmed from widespread adoption within youth culture, with media reflecting, rather than creating, the trend.
What Other Slang Terms Were Popular During the Same Era?
The 1980s boasted a vibrant slang vocabulary. "Totally tubular" sat alongside other popular phrases like "radical," "gnarly," "bodacious," "awesome," "wicked," and "grody to the max." These terms collectively painted a picture of the era's unique youth culture, reflecting its attitudes and interests. The use of intensifiers like "totally" and "so" was also a key characteristic of the period's slang.
Why Did "Totally Tubular" Fall Out of Favor?
Like most slang, "totally tubular" eventually fell out of common usage. Slang is inherently ephemeral; it reflects the zeitgeist of a particular period and typically loses its appeal as that period passes. The arrival of the 1990s brought with it a new generation and a new set of slang terms, rendering "totally tubular" somewhat dated. However, its association with the 1980s keeps it alive in nostalgic references and pop culture callbacks.
Is "Totally Tubular" Still Used Today?
While not part of everyday conversation, "totally tubular" persists in modern usage, primarily as a nostalgic reference to the 1980s. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a specific time and cultural sensibility. Its usage today serves as a playful wink to the past, demonstrating the lasting power of slang to connect different generations through shared cultural memory.
Conclusion:
"Totally tubular's" journey from surfing slang to iconic 80s expression highlights the fluid and dynamic nature of language. Its story reveals how informal language evolves, reflecting and shaping cultural trends. While its precise origins remain elusive, its lasting impact on pop culture is undeniable, making it a fascinating case study in linguistic evolution and cultural memory.
