What does hippy mean?
A hippy is, most traditionally, someone associated with the 1960s counterculture, a loose movement known for opposition to war and established authority, interest in psychedelic music and art, and experiments with communal or unconventional lifestyles. The word also has a broader informal meaning: a person regarded as rebellious, free-spirited, or resistant to conventional social expectations. In this extended sense, it may be used affectionately or as a mild insult, depending on the speaker and context. “Hippie” is the more common spelling in formal writing and historical accounts, while “hippy” remains especially familiar in everyday British and American English. The term grew out of the older vocabulary of “hip” and “hipster,” originally associated with being fashionable, knowledgeable, and alert to current cultural trends. Although rooted in a particular historical period, the word survives because its central idea—rejection of conventionality—continues to describe people who choose an independent or unconventional path.
A member of or supporter of the 1960s counterculture, or more generally an unconventional, free-spirited person.
"The interview with a former hippie captured the movement's emphasis on freedom and communal life."
Historically, “hippie” is the more conventional spelling. The broader informal use can be approving or dismissive.
Characteristic of hippies or the 1960s counterculture; informally, unconventional or free-spirited.
"The shop sells vintage clothes and other hippy accessories."
This use is informal and now often evokes the cultural style of the 1960s rather than describing an active participant in the movement.
The standard plural is “hippies,” following the usual English pattern of changing y to i and adding -es.
"Several hippies shared the house and tended the community garden."
The hippy gave the 1960s counterculture its enduring nickname—and gave generations of parents a reason to worry about the music their children brought home.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hippy
The word emerged in the 1960s from the earlier term “hipster,” which in the 1940s referred to a fashionable, knowledgeable, or sophisticated person. Its expanded associations with the counterculture developed during that decade, as the movement adopted distinctive music, clothing, communal living, and political ideals. The older “hip,” in senses such as fashionable and aware of current trends, supplies the same cultural root.
Related word forms
How hippy is actually used
The term is informal and can sound affectionate, nostalgic, or mildly dismissive depending on context and speaker. For the 1960s movement, “hippie” is generally the preferred spelling; “hippy” is common in both British and American English.
Easily confused with hippy
“Hippie” and “hippy” are variant spellings of the same word, though “hippie” is generally preferred in formal writing and historical discussion.