Why Do People Say, "What’s Cooking, Good Looking?"
Ever heard someone say, “What’s cooking, good looking?” and wondered what it actually means? Well, you’re in for a fun little history lesson! This playful and charming greeting has been around for quite a while, and its origins date back to mid-20th century America.
Breaking It Down: What Does It Mean?
Let’s split the phrase into two parts:
- “What’s cooking?” – This is a casual way of asking “What’s up?” or “What’s going on?” It’s not necessarily about food (though it can be if you're in a kitchen!). People have been using “What’s cooking?” as a friendly way to start conversations since at least the 1940s.
- “Good looking” – This is a compliment, a flirty or lighthearted way of addressing someone attractive. It adds charm and playfulness to the greeting.
Put them together, and you get a fun, rhyming phrase that’s both engaging and flattering. No wonder it became so popular!
Where Did It Come From?
The phrase “What’s cooking, good looking?” gained traction in the 1940s and 1950s. It was a time when swing music, jazz culture, and smooth-talking expressions were all the rage. You might hear this kind of phrase in old Hollywood films, jazz clubs, or among friends joking around. The catchy rhythm of the words makes it even more appealing!
Do People Still Use It Today?
While it’s not as common as it once was, you’ll still hear it in movies, TV shows, and sometimes in playful conversations. It’s mostly used in a nostalgic, humorous, or ironic way now. If someone greets you with “What’s cooking, good looking?”, they’re likely just being lighthearted and fun.
Is There a Similar Phrase in Korean?
In Korean, there’s no direct translation, but a similar playful greeting might be:
👉 "뭐 하고 있어, 예쁜이?" (Mwo hago isseo, yeppeuni?) – “What are you doing, beautiful?”
👉 "잘 지냈어, 멋쟁이?" (Jal jinaesseo, meotjaengi?) – “How have you been, stylish one?”
These don’t have the exact same rhyme and rhythm, but they carry a similar warm, friendly, and slightly flirty tone.
Final Thoughts
Language evolves, and expressions like “What’s cooking, good looking?” add personality and color to conversations. Even if it’s a bit old-fashioned now, it’s still a fun phrase to know. So, next time you want to greet someone with a bit of retro charm, give it a try!
Have you heard or used this phrase before? Or do you know any other fun greetings from different languages? Drop a comment and share your thoughts! 😊
