Cowabunga (exclamation / US Slang, from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
(Also heard as: Cowabunga, dude, Cowabunga!)
Definition:
Cowabunga is a shout of excitement, used before doing something daring or when something is awesome. It is best known as the Ninja Turtles’ battle cry.
Where Cowabunga Comes From:
It started with the 1950s TV show Howdy Doody and was picked up by US surfers. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990 film and the cartoon) made it famous worldwide through Michelangelo.
How People Actually Use Cowabunga:
Yelled when jumping into water, starting something fun or celebrating. It is playful, retro and often said with a grin.
Is Cowabunga Rude?
Not at all. It is a cheerful, family-friendly shout.
Examples in the Wild:
- “Cowabunga!” (jumping off the diving board)Meaning: Here I go, this is going to be fun.
- “We got front row tickets, cowabunga!”Meaning: That is awesome news.
- “Cowabunga, dude, check out that wave.”Meaning: Wow, that wave is amazing.
Similar Slang:
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