Hepcats

Hepcats was a term that originated in the United States during the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s. It typically referred to individuals, usually young men, who were aficionados of jazz music, particularly swing, and who adopted a specific style of dress, slang, and dance associated with the subculture.

The term "hepcats" is believed to be derived from "hep," a slang term meaning knowledgeable, aware, or cool, combined with "cat," another slang term often used to refer to a jazz musician or enthusiast. Therefore, a hepcat was someone considered to be "hep" or "in the know" about jazz and swing culture.

Hepcats were known for their zoot suits, often characterized by high-waisted, wide-legged trousers and long coats with padded shoulders. Their fashion sense was often flamboyant and expressive. They favored dancing the Lindy Hop and other swing dances.

The slang spoken by hepcats was a unique and evolving vocabulary, often incorporating terms from the African American community and the jazz scene. This slang contributed to a sense of exclusivity and identity within the subculture.

While the term "hepcat" largely fell out of common usage after the swing era, it remains a significant part of the cultural history of jazz and swing music in the United States. It signifies a particular style, attitude, and dedication to the music and associated lifestyle. Today, the term is sometimes used nostalgically to evoke the era of swing and its distinctive fashion and culture.