Understanding Slang
Slang is informal language, often specific to a particular group or culture. It’s constantly evolving, with new words and phrases emerging and old ones falling out of use. Slang can provide a sense of belonging and identity, becoming a sort of linguistic secret handshake recognized only by those in the know.
The Evolution of ‘Pluto’
One such instance of slang is the term ‘Pluto.’ In formal context, Pluto is the name of the ninth planet in our solar system. However, in slang, the meaning of ‘Pluto’ has a different connotation altogether. Often linked with the hip-hop community, ‘Pluto’ carries significance and layers of meaning beyond its astronomical definition.
‘Pluto’ in Slang
‘Pluto’ in slang generally refers to something far out, extreme, or exceptional. It can be interpreted as being in a different world, out of the ordinary, or unreachable. The term was popularized in the hip-hop community by rapper Future, who titled his debut studio album ‘Pluto.’ Future often used the term to describe his unique music style and exceptional lifestyle.
- For instance, if someone says ‘Your music is Pluto,’ they mean your music is unique, distinctive, and unlike anything else they’ve heard.
- Another use of ‘Pluto’ could be ‘His fashion sense is Pluto.’ This signifies that someone’s fashion sense is distinctive or way out there.
‘Pluto’ as a Metaphor
Beyond this, ‘Pluto’ has also been adopted as a metaphor in addressing feelings of loneliness or being misunderstood due to its far-off position in the solar system. It can symbolize feeling distant, unknown, or unappreciated.
- For example, ‘I felt like Pluto when I didn’t get invited to the party.’ This means the speaker felt left out or unappreciated.
Conclusion
The use of ‘Pluto’ in slang is an interesting reflection of societal changes and the influence of the music industry on language. Its use goes beyond literal meaning, acting both as a way to applaud exceptionalism and as a metaphor for feelings of distance or alienity. This exploration uncovers the rich tapestry of language, showing how it continuously evolves and adapts to our changing society.
