Monday, April 12, 2010

1950's American Slang Word(s) of the Day #20

I seem to have mixed up the count for the slang entries, this is actually post 20. I seem to have forgotten post 19. We're back on track though.
Our 1950's American Slang Word(s) of the Day today is:

Swell; n. a stylishly dressed person, usu. male. a dandy, dude or sport. A genteel or refined person, a wealthy or socially prominent person, especially if somewhat of a dandy or sport. Colloq.; becoming archaic. adj. pleasing; excellent; grand; fine; elegant; stylish; wonderful; enjoyable; friendly; hospitable. colloq. since c. 1880; gained present popularity c.1920 adv. excellently; pleasingly; elegantly; wonderfully; enjoyably; stylishly; hospitably.

             "Gee Dad, that's swell!" Wally and the Beave, "Leave it to Beaver" 1957


Example:  Polly, did you hear that Ronnie's parents are throwing her sweet sixteen down at the Lake? There's going to be a bonfire and hot cocoa and sweet corn! Everyone's invited...it's going to be swell! Don't forget to bring your ice skates.

Clarification: Pauline, have you heard the latest news? Veronicas parents are holding a social gathering at the lake in celebration of her birthday. They will have a dizzying array of delights for the partygoers to indulge in. The whole class has been invited. It is sure to be a highly enjoyable evening. It has been suggested that partygoers bring their ice skating equipment.

3 comments:

  1. Love it.....I'm an Aussie gal and don't use the word "Swell" but hear it in plenty of TV shows!! LOVE your blog, thanks for joining mine!!
    Cheers Kathie

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