General
fat city
What does fat city mean?
A condition of wealth, ease, and success.
"Steady job, sharp car, great girl — he's living in fat city."
Origin
Slang from 1940s-50s jazz and Black American hipster culture, where 'fat' meant rich, abundant, or excellent; 'fat city' became the place of plenty. It moved into general 1950s teen slang via the rock-n-roll scene.
Frequently asked questions
What does fat city mean in slang?
It describes a great, prosperous, comfortable situation — being in fat city means you've got it good.
Where did fat city come from?
It comes from 1940s-50s jazz and Black American hipster slang, where 'fat' meant rich or excellent, and spread into 1950s teen talk.
Is fat city about money only?
Not strictly — it covers any fortunate, comfortable state, whether that's wealth, ease, or good luck.
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