What Does “Jive Turkey” Mean? A Look at the Origins and Evolution of This Retro Slang Term

The phrase “jive turkey” is a relic of 1970’s slang that still gets some play today, often in a tongue-in-cheek, ironic way. But what exactly does this odd expression mean and where did it come from? Let’s take a look at the origins and evolution of “jive turkey.”

The Meaning of Jive Turkey

In short, “jive turkey” is used to describe someone who is unreliable, dishonest, or insincere Calling someone a “jive turkey” suggests they are a phony, a liar, or a fake It’s a derogatory way to challenge someone’s credibility.

Specifically “jive” refers to nonsense exaggerations, or empty promises. “Turkey” is slang for a silly, stupid, or worthless person. Put them together, and you have a phrase that essentially means “foolish liar” or “dishonest fool.”

Origins in Jazz, African-American Vernacular English

The phrase has its roots in African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) and jazz culture. The word “jive” itself originated as a slang term in the early 1900s meaning nonsense or lies. It was commonly used in the jazz scene referring to exaggerated or meaningless talk between musicians.

By the 1950s, “jive” became more associated with insincere, misleading, or false talk in African-American communities. The term “turkey” was already established in AAVE meaning someone who is inept, stupid, or worthless.

Popularization in the 1970s

It wasn’t until the early 1970s that the term “jive turkey” really took hold. It became a popular expression within black communities and blaxploitation films. The African-American comedy act Stepin Fetchit used it in a sketch comedy routine that was then featured in a 1971 episode of the show Laugh-In.

In 1974, the funk band The Ohio Players released their song “Jive Turkey,” using the phrase in the lyrics. This further cemented “jive turkey” in the cultural lexicon. Throughout the 70s, it was common slang used in TV shows and movies anytime someone wanted to call out a person’s BS.

Evolution into Mainstream Slang

Thanks to its ubiquity in 70s media, “jive turkey” crossed over from AAVE and entered the mainstream. It was no longer just used within the black community but became a recognizable American slang term.

By the 1980s and 90s, it was considered a somewhat corny expression, almost solely used for comedic effect rather than as a serious insult. Using outdated slang like “jive turkey” became a way of jokingly signaling you were out of touch.

Contemporary Usage

These days, calling someone a “jive turkey” is seen as deliberately retro and humorous. It’s referenced in jokes and memes, often with a wink and a nod. However, it can still have an edge to it when used to directly challenge someone’s honesty or authenticity.

While not as prevalent as it once was, “jive turkey” lingers on in the popular lexicon. Its origins are largely forgotten, but the colorful phrase still conveys the same fundamental meaning – referring to someone who is not to be trusted. So use it wisely!