Hippy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈhɪpi/

Definitions

  1. An individual belonging to a subculture focused on ideals of peace, love, and freedom, often embracing alternative lifestyles and expressing individuality through fashion and philosophy
  2. A member of a cultural phenomenon that arose in the 1960s, emphasizing harmony with nature, anti-war sentiments, and communal living, often showcased in distinctive clothing and beliefs
  3. An individual associated with a countercultural movement that prioritizes peace, spirituality, and anti-establishment views while often adopting unique styles and communal values

Etymology: The term emerged in American English during the 1960s, closely tied to the countercultural movement that rejected conventional norms around politics, lifestyle, and aesthetics. Its first appearances are found in the vibrant urban scenes of San Francisco and New York, where young people adopted bohemian values, experimented with psychedelic music and art, and promoted peace and love. The word itself is believed to derive from "hip," a slang term from the early 20th century meaning aware or in the know, especially about the latest cultural trends. "Hip" likely comes from the West African Wolof word "hipi," meaning to open one's eyes or to be aware. By adding the "-y" suffix, the word transformed into a noun denoting a person who embodies this awareness or trendiness. Some early uses of the word "hippy" referred to beatniks or bohemians who had moved out of the city ("hipsters" in some contexts). The shift from "hip" to "hippy" emphasized a lifestyle marked by relaxed attitudes toward dress, drug use, and political activism. Although the spelling "hippy" is common, "hippie" became a popular variant, with both forms used interchangeably. The term’s cultural meaning expanded rapidly in the late 1960s, as hippies became associated not only with style but with a broader social and political movement promoting peace, environmentalism, and civil rights. The word thus went from a simple label for someone "in the know" to a symbol of a transformative era in American and global culture.

Synonyms: bohemian, flower child

Antonyms: square