American woman teaching English boys to dance the Charleston, Great Britain, 1925
Don’t lose it, re-use it!
Here are another Top 10 Hilarious 1920’s Slang Phrases that we ought to bring back:
10. Bank’s Closed – no kissing or making out – “Sorry, Mac, the bank’s closed.”
9. Dry up – get lost – “I’m not interested. Do me a favor and dry up.”
8. Don’t take any wooden nickels – don’t do anything stupid- “Be careful with your friends tonight and don’t take any wooden nickels.”
7. Balled Up- confused, messed up- “Mom, I’m all balled up and don’t know where I am!”
6. Hoofer – dancer- “Wow, I never saw anyone move like you. You’re quite the hoofer.”
5. Live wire – a lively person – “Boy oh boy, you’re a real live wire!”
4. Wet Blanket – a solemn person, a killjoy- “Olga, stop being a wet blanket and smile.”
3. Chassis – the female body – “I have to admit, you have the best chassis I’ve ever seen.”
2. Banana Oil – nonsense – “You’re the first boy who’s ever kissed me.” “That’s banana oil.”
1. Mrs. Grundy – a priggish or extremely tight-laced person – “Hey Mrs. Grundy, would ya kindly pull the bloomers from your crack and settle down.”
(See my older post entitled “Talk Like the Twenties” for more great phrases.)
Reference: http://local.aaca.org/bntc/slang/slang.htm
Picture Reference: http://www.vintag.es/2013/11/american-woman-teaching-english-boys-to.html
