Every February, as we celebrate Black History Month, we honour the profound impact that Black culture has had on every facet of society. One of the most enduring—and sometimes underappreciated—elements of Black culture are the contributions to modern language. Though much of these words were created through African American dialect, these words and the context in which they are used globally and have become part of everyday speech. Here we explore how a select group of terms—hip, dig, cool, bad-mouth, hater, and throw shade—originated in Black culture and evolved to shape modern language.

Dig: To Understand and Appreciate

In the vernacular of the 1930s counterculture, dig meant more than simply “to like” something—it meant to truly understand, appreciate, or connect with an idea or a person. This term, which found fertile ground in African American communities and later spread through the civil rights and counterculture movements, encapsulates an attitude of deep appreciation and critical engagement. Whether someone “digs” a new piece of art or a fresh perspective, the word carries a sense of soulful resonance rooted in Black linguistic creativity.

Cool: The Enduring Symbol of Composure

Long before it was a ubiquitous compliment, cool was a term imbued with multiple layers of meaning in African American slang. More than just describing temperature, cool captured an essence of composure, style, and an effortless ability to rise above adversity. From jazz clubs to everyday conversations, the idea of being cool conveyed not only an aesthetic but also a spirit of resilience and self-possession—a quality that has continued to inspire generations.

Bad-Mouth: The Art of Critique

The term bad-mouth—to speak ill of someone—finds its roots in Black communities where expressive language often served both as a means of social critique and as a creative outlet. In some schools of thought, it dates back to 1835 in African American vernacular where it meant “a curse or spell.” Over time, bad-mouth evolved into a commonly used expression that reflects the power of words in shaping opinions and social dynamics. It stands as a reminder of how African American speech patterns have enriched the ways we discuss character and reputation.

Hater: Identifying Negativity

The term hater has been popularized in modern culture, particularly through hip-hop and urban slang, as a label for someone who expresses unwarranted criticism or jealousy. Emerging from African American communities, where social commentary is woven into everyday language, hater encapsulates the idea of negativity that can stifle creativity and progress. Its widespread adoption underscores the impact of Black cultural expression on how we discuss interpersonal dynamics in the digital age.

Throw Shade: The Subtle Art of Insult

Perhaps one of the most evocative phrases to emerge from Black culture is throw shade. Originating in Black drag culture, the phrase refers to the act of subtly dissing or expressing contempt for someone. Rather than overt insults, throwing shade implies a nuanced, clever, and often humorous way of critiquing someone’s behavior or character. It captures the spirit of resilience and wit that characterizes so much of African American social expression.

A Legacy Written in Language

These words and phrases are not merely slang or transient trends; they are enduring contributions to the tapestry of the English language. They illustrate how Black culture—through its music, dance, social interaction, and creative expression—has reshaped language in ways that have enriched everyday communication. What began in specific communities as a way to articulate unique experiences and perspectives has grown into a vocabulary that resonates across all corners of society.

As we celebrate Black History Month, we acknowledge that the evolution of language is deeply intertwined with cultural history. These words serve as everyday reminders of a vibrant cultural legacy—one that continues to influence art, conversation, and the very way we perceive the world. In embracing these words, we honor the inventiveness and resilience of Black communities and recognize the power of language as a living, breathing testament to history.