Hippie Meaning and Definition
Hippie
Pronunciation
/ˈhɪpiː/
Part of Speech
Neologism, originally a noun, now also used as an adjective
Definition
A person who is characterized by a lifestyle that emphasizes nonconformity, free expression, and a rejection of mainstream values, often associated with the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
Examples
1. “She was a stereotypical hippie, with her long hair and colorful clothing.”
2. “The hippie movement of the 1960s was characterized by a rejection of mainstream values and a desire for social change.”
Synonyms
1. Flower child
2. Counterculturalist
Antonyms
1. Conservative
2. Mainstream
Additional Information
The hippie movement originated in the 1960s as a response to the conservative values of mainstream society. It emphasized peace, love, and freedom, and was characterized by the use of psychedelic drugs, rock music, and flamboyant fashion. The hippie movement had a significant impact on popular culture, with its influence still felt today in fashion, music, and art.
Hippies were often associated with the anti-war movement and the Civil Rights Movement, and were known for their use of nonviolent protest and their emphasis on spirituality and personal growth. The movement also had a strong focus on environmentalism and social justice, and was characterized by a sense of community and shared values.
Today, the term “hippie” is often used to describe a person who is nonconformist and values individuality and self-expression. It can also refer to a person who is interested in alternative lifestyles and spirituality.
Hippie culture has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with its influence seen in fashion, music, art, and film. The movement’s emphasis on peace, love, and freedom continues to inspire people around the world, and its legacy can be seen in the continued importance of social justice, environmentalism, and spirituality.
Etymology
The word “hippie” is derived from the term “hipster,” which was used in the 1940s and 1950s to describe a young, urban, jazz-loving crowd. The term “hippie” emerged in the early 1960s as a way to describe a specific subculture that emerged in the United States and Europe.
The hippie movement was influenced by various cultural and social factors, including the Beat Generation, the Civil Rights Movement, and the counterculture movement. It was also influenced by Eastern spirituality and the idea of psychedelic experiences as a means of spiritual growth.
The hippie movement gained international attention in the late 1960s, with the first International Festival of Peace, Love, and Music held in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park in 1967.
Usage Notes
The word “hippie” can be used as both a noun and an adjective.
When referring to a person, the word should be capitalized, as it is a proper noun. When referring to a lifestyle or attitude, the word can be used as an adjective, and can be either capitalized or lowercase, depending on the context.
Cultural References
The hippie movement has been referenced in countless films, literature, and music, including:
“Easy Rider” (1969)
“Woodstock” (1970)
“The Graduate” (1967)
“The Beatles” (1967)
“The Doors” (1967)
“San Francisco (1967)”
Idiomatic Expressions
The word “hippie” is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as:
“Hippie chick”
“Hippie lifestyle”
“Hippie culture”
“Go hippie”
Collocations
The word “hippie” is often paired with other words, such as:
“free love”
“peace and love”
“nonconformity”
“spiritual searching”
Frequency of Use
The word “hippie” is still commonly used today, especially in informal contexts, but its usage is not as widespread as it was during the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “hippie” include:
“hippy”
“hippiee”
“hippieing”