Cool Beans
Resurrected🪃BoomerangDefinition
An enthusiastic way of saying 'cool' or 'great' that originated in the 70s-80s and has been revived ironically. The irony has now folded in on itself — some people say it genuinely again.
Translation for Parents
You probably said this in the 90s. Your kid might say it now. The difference is they might be making fun of you OR they might genuinely think it's charming. The Schrodinger's cat of dad slang — both ironic and genuine until observed.
Examples
“You got us concert tickets? Cool beans!”
“You got us concert tickets? That's awesome!”
“Cool beans dude, see you there”
“Sounds great, see you there”
Cringe Score
Your kid will cringe
Whether 'cool beans' is cringe or charming depends entirely on the confidence with which you deliver it. Say it like you mean it. The beans will follow.
Category
reaction
Peak
1990-01
Last Verified
2026-02-25
Sources
editorial