Hip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hip
[hษชp ]
Definitions
music
A style of popular music combining jazz, blues, and rock elements, characterized by improvisation and syncopation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hip |
Shortened form of 'hip-hop', referring to the genre of music or culture characterized by rap, DJing, and street art.
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| rap |
Specific to the music genre characterized by rhythmic and rhyming speech. Also can refer to the act of performing this type of music.
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| urban |
Used to describe things related to cities or city life. Often employed to signify contemporary culture within metropolitan areas, which can include slang, fashion, and lifestyle.
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Examples of usage
- She loves to dance to hip-hop music.
- Hip-hop culture has a significant influence on today's youth.
informal
Fashionable and up-to-date.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hip |
Used to describe someone who is fashionable or aware of the latest trends, often in a more underground or counter-culture sense.
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| trendy |
Refers to something that is currently popular or up-to-date with the latest fashion or culture, often used for a positive connotation.
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| cool |
A general term for something or someone that is admired, stylish, or impressive, suitable for many informal situations.
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Examples of usage
- She always wears the latest hip clothing.
- His new haircut is really hip.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In the 1960s, 'hip' became a defining characteristic of the counterculture movement, highlighting those who embraced alternative lifestyles.
- Hip-hop culture, which started in the 1970s, widely adopted the term, often associated with music, dance, and art.
- Fashion icons and influencers often use 'hip' to describe styles that are in vogue, linking the term directly to current trends.
Psychology
- 'Hipness' can influence social status among peers, with perceptions of being 'hip' leading to a sense of belonging.
- Being considered 'hip' often correlates with traits like openness to new experiences and a progressive mindset.
- Psychologically, seeking 'hip' status can fulfill social identity needs, as people align with what is perceived as cool.
Literature
- Writers in the Beat Generation frequently used 'hip' to describe characters who were free-spirited and nonconformist.
- In contemporary youth literature, the concept of being 'hip' often represents the struggle for identity and authenticity in modern society.
- Notable novels, like those by Jack Kerouac, depicted 'hip' characters as symbols of rebellion and cultural freedom.
Fashion
- The fashion industry continually evolves its definition of 'hip', influenced by designers and street style trends.
- The hipster movement of the 2000s brought 'hip' into focus with thrift store finds, artisanal goods, and unique styles.
- Accessories, like wide-brim hats and vintage clothes, have become symbols of hip fashion culture.
Origin of 'hip'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hip' originated from the 1900s American slang, initially referring to being informed or aware.
- It may have roots in African-American Vernacular English, particularly from jazz culture in the 1940s.
- The term was popular in beatnik culture, symbolizing someone who is in-the-know or stylish.
The term 'hip' originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in the early 20th century. It was initially used to describe someone who was aware of or knowledgeable about the latest trends, especially in music and fashion. Over time, 'hip' evolved to encompass a broader sense of being fashionable and in-the-know. The term became widely popularized in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly in the jazz and beatnik subcultures, and has since become a common descriptor for anything trendy or cool.
See also: unhip.