The meaning of the word 'gay' has changed. it used to mean all colourful and happy and homosexual but now it's a word children use to describe something that's a little bit 'meh'. 'You're eating Weetabix, oh that's so gay'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker notes how the meaning of a word has shifted from positive to dismissive among children.
- In plain terms
- The word gay used to mean happy but kids now use it to mean boring.
- What can you take from it?
- Language evolves quickly, especially among younger generations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do words change meaning over time?
- Who drives language evolution?
Another view
The observation simplifies complex language shifts.
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