Music
the bomb
What does the bomb mean?
A graffiti term, where to 'bomb' is to cover an area with tags or pieces, making 'the bomb' a standout piece.
"His burner on the train was the bomb, cleanest piece in the yard."
Origin
Praise slang from late-70s and 80s Black American and hip-hop culture meaning the best; it also overlaps with graffiti's 'bombing', the act of writing up a wall or train.
Frequently asked questions
What does the bomb mean in slang?
It means the best, outstanding, or excellent, a strong term of approval from 80s hip-hop and Black American slang.
Where did the bomb come from?
From late-70s and 80s Black American and hip-hop culture, with a parallel meaning in graffiti, where 'bombing' means covering surfaces with tags.
Is the bomb the same as da bomb?
Yes, 'da bomb' is a phonetic spelling of the same phrase that got especially popular in the 90s.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
