The phrase "totally tubular" is synonymous with 1980s slang, instantly conjuring images of leg warmers, big hair, and radical skateboarding. But where did this iconic phrase originate? While often attributed to various sources, its precise genesis remains somewhat elusive, adding to its enigmatic charm. This deep dive explores the popularization, cultural impact, and enduring legacy of "totally tubular," focusing on its connection to the popular TV show Totally Tubular.
What Does "Totally Tubular" Mean?
Before delving into its origins, let's define the term. "Totally tubular" was slang used to describe something excellent, awesome, or fantastic. It conveyed a sense of excitement and approval, reflecting the energetic and often exuberant culture of the 1980s. The word "tubular" itself, though initially used to describe something shaped like a tube, acquired this positive connotation within the youth culture of the era.
Did Totally Tubular Invent "Totally Tubular"?
This is where things get interesting. While the TV show Totally Tubular (which aired from 1986 to 1987) certainly popularized the phrase, attributing its invention solely to the show is inaccurate. The phrase was already in circulation within the broader youth culture, making its appearance on Totally Tubular a matter of reflecting, rather than creating, a prevalent trend. The show, however, undeniably cemented its place in the pop culture lexicon. Its repeated use in the show, in conjunction with the show’s target audience, propelled “Totally Tubular” into widespread usage and recognition.
How Did "Totally Tubular" Become So Popular?
Several factors contributed to the phrase's widespread popularity:
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Media Saturation: The 1980s saw an explosion of youth-oriented media, and "totally tubular" found its way into numerous films, television shows, and music videos, solidifying its status as a quintessential 80s catchphrase.
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Word-of-Mouth: Like many slang terms, "totally tubular" spread rapidly through informal communication channels – friends talking to friends, creating a groundswell of usage.
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Nostalgia: Even today, "totally tubular" remains associated with a sense of nostalgia for the 1980s, its usage evoking a specific cultural context and a sense of lighthearted fun.
What Other 80s Slang Terms Were Popular Around the Same Time?
The 1980s boasted a rich tapestry of slang. Terms like "radical," "gnarly," "awesome," "bodacious," and "grody to the max" all competed for space in the lexicon of the decade. Each term, like "totally tubular," reflected the unique spirit and energy of the era. These words often overlapped in their intended meaning, creating a vibrant and expressive vocabulary.
Is "Totally Tubular" Still Used Today?
While not as prevalent as it was in the 1980s, "totally tubular" persists in contemporary usage, often employed ironically or nostalgically. Its enduring presence highlights its lasting impact on popular culture. Its use today often serves as a playful nod to the past, reminding people of the unique cultural landscape of the 1980s.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of "Totally Tubular"
The story of "totally tubular" isn't a neat, easily defined narrative. Its origins remain somewhat murky, but its impact is undeniable. Its popularity reflects the power of youth culture to create and disseminate language, and its lasting presence speaks to the enduring charm of 1980s nostalgia. While Totally Tubular might not have invented the phrase, its contribution to its widespread adoption is undeniable, making it an integral part of the show’s legacy and a significant piece of pop culture history.
