9 Words Forgotten Since Childhood That Will Instantly Make Everyone 60-80 Smile

For a long time, I wondered why my mother called her handbag a “clutch.” It seemed almost too formal, a little old-fashioned. And yet, it was common usage for women of her generation.

The word has largely been replaced by “handbag,” but “pouch” conveys something else: a notion of practicality, less focused on style or social status. It evokes a time when these accessories served their purpose first and reflected a certain lifestyle.

In some French regions, particularly in the North and East, the term has lasted longer than elsewhere, retaining this particular flavor of regional nostalgia.

4. Inflate
Saying “that’s really inflated” might sound trite, but there was a time when the word expressed sincere approval or genuine enthusiasm.

It reached its peak in the 1940s and 1950s, so baby boomers heard it regularly from their parents or grandparents. By the time they were teenagers, “pumped up” had already been replaced by words like “cool” or “groovy,” but it remained firmly rooted in the family vocabulary.

The words we hear in the early years of our lives tend to stay with us for a long time, even as language evolves around us.

5. Panties

Today, we hardly ever hear the term “breeches” used to refer to trousers from the past, but for children in the mid-20th century, it was the common term for trousers, especially sturdy workwear styles.

The word has ancient roots, but by this time it was already beginning to sound outdated. Yet, many parents and grandparents still used it regularly, and it was passed down to the children who would become baby boomers.

There is something satisfying about the sound of this word: it seems more solid and concrete than the word “pants.” This familiar evocation has survived even though the word itself has fallen into disuse.

6. Damn
In the past, to express frustration or surprise without swearing, adults used words like “damn!” This type of exclamation allowed them to react to a delicate situation without offending anyone.

My mother still used this word as an adult, and I always found it endearing. It represented a time when people found creative, almost whimsical ways to express irritation without resorting to vulgarity.

Although this term is older than the generation of 60-70 year olds, my parents were probably among the last to use it regularly and without complexes.

7. Masterstroke

In the past, when we spoke of something exceptional, we spoke of a “humdinger,” which could be translated as “masterstroke.” This word expressed enthusiasm without excess, a measured but sincere approval.

It could be used for anything: a particularly good pie, an entertaining movie, or even a brilliant idea. Its versatility and elegance meant it never seemed excessive.

Like many other words from that era, it did not disappear due to lack of usefulness, but because linguistic fashions changed, giving way to new terms. Yet, for those who heard it during their childhood, it retains a special warmth and color.

8. Radiola