College Station Unpacks the Roots of Aggie Slang
COLLEGE STATION, TX — Texas A&M University is steeped in tradition and rich history, and with that comes a unique blend of lingo known only to Aggies. Recently, a deep dive into the origins of some popular terms like “gig ’em,” “good bull,” and “Old Army” has sparked conversations and brought to light some fascinating anecdotes.
What’s Old Army Anyway?
Let’s kick things off with “Old Army.” This phrase seems to evoke a sense of nostalgia among Aggies, often referring to the days gone by during a particular individual’s time at Texas A&M. But, interestingly, the term isn’t unique to Aggies; it has roots in military lingo that predates even the university itself. Historian Edward M. Coffman explains it succinctly as the army that existed before the most recent war. In Aggieland, it plays a similar role, capturing the essence of how things used to be on campus. Bill Leftwich ’45 captures it when he notes that your “Ol’ Army” was likely your freshman year, which is a sentiment shared among many who have walked the hallowed halls.
Good Bull: A Lighthearted Tradition
Moving on to the phrase “good bull,” this has evolved from its early days in the 1940s when it referred to playful antics and pranks that encapsulated the spirited Aggie lifestyle. Ags would gather round to share their amusing tales in what was first termed a “bull session.” Over time, “good bull” has come to represent fun and positive experiences. It’s interesting to note that while the term may have transitioned, the Aggie Spirit behind it remains as vibrant as ever!
The Mystery of Gig ’Em
Then we arrive at the iconic “gig ’em.” A phrase often shouted in high spirits at sporting events, its origin story is tangled with both legend and tradition. Many believe the shout originated from a yell practice in 1930 when a student reportedly exclaimed, “What are we going to do to those Horned Frogs? Gig ’em!” The connection to the act of frog gigging — spearing frogs — is part of the lore. However, evidence to bolster this particular narrative is somewhat shaky. Despite that, it’s clear that the phrase has been part of Aggie culture well before the 1930s, showing up in yearbooks and even newspapers.
It’s fascinating to think about how these words capture the essence of being an Aggie. Each term ties together generations of students, creating a rich tapestry of camaraderie and shared experiences. If you’re an Aggie or know one, it’s likely you’ve shared in these linguistic gems, whether on game day, during the midnight yell, or simply while reminiscing.
A Call to the Aggie Community
So, if you have any tidbits or stories related to these Aggie terms, don’t keep them to yourself! The folks at the AggieNetwork are looking to compile more information to celebrate this unique culture. You can reach out to them at AggieNetwork@AggieNetwork.com. Each story shared contributes to the legacy of Texas A&M and helps keep the spirit of an Aggie alive.
Conclusion: Celebrating Tradition in Every Word
As we continue to explore the ever-evolving language that Aggies hold dear, it’s a wonderful reminder of the connections we share through our unique traditions. Whether you’re an Old Ag reminiscing about “Ol’ Army,” or a recent graduate reflecting on a “good bull” moment, the Aggie spirit is truly timeless. So, let’s raise our eyebrows when we hear these terms and think about the rich history behind them!
