General
mellow out
What does mellow out mean?
To relax and become calm, easing off anger or anxiety.
"Just mellow out, the bus will get here when it gets here."
Origin
From the older sense of 'mellow' meaning soft and ripe, this 1960s counterculture phrase urged a relaxed, peaceful state in keeping with the era's laid-back ideals.
Frequently asked questions
What does mellow out mean in slang?
It means to calm down, relax, and release tension or agitation.
Where did mellow out come from?
From the word 'mellow' meaning soft and ripe; 1960s hippies used it to describe a relaxed, peaceful state.
Is telling someone to mellow out rude?
It is usually gentle and friendly, though it can sound dismissive if the other person feels their concern is being brushed off.
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