Pop
gnarly
What does gnarly mean?
Excellent and impressive, or challenging and extreme, especially in surf and skate culture.
"That wave was absolutely gnarly."
Origin
Surfer slang from 1970s California describing dangerously big, twisted waves (literally 'gnarled'). It exploded into mainstream 80s teen talk through skate and surf culture and movies like Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
Frequently asked questions
What does gnarly mean in slang?
It means extreme or intense — either really awesome or really gross, depending on tone. The context tells you which way it's leaning.
Is gnarly a positive or negative word?
Both. Surfers and skaters use it as high praise, but it can also describe something disgusting or dangerous.
Is gnarly still used today?
Yes, mostly ironically or in skate, surf, and snowboard circles where it never really left.
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