The phrase "for kicks" is a slang expression meaning to do something purely for fun or entertainment. The word "for" is pronounced as /fɔːr/ and is spelled with an "o" because it represents the long vowel sound in English. The word "kicks" is pronounced as /kɪks/ and is spelled with a "ck" to indicate the consonant cluster of "k" and "s". This phrase gained popularity in the 1950s and is still commonly used today in casual conversations.
"For kicks" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal contexts, especially in casual conversations, to describe doing something purely for the sake of fun, amusement, or entertainment, without any particular purpose or serious intention. The phrase can also be understood as engaging in a certain activity simply to experience excitement, curiosity, or to add a bit of variety to one's routine.
The term "for kicks" implies that the action being undertaken is not driven by any specific goal, personal benefit, or practical motive, but rather to indulge in a sense of enjoyment or lightheartedness. It often denotes a desire to engage in something uncharacteristic or unexpected, purely for the sake of creating a sense of novelty or amusement. For instance, someone might say, "Let's go for a drive in the countryside for kicks," indicating that the motive is simply to derive pleasure from the act of driving and exploring.
The expression "for kicks" can also imply a bit of daring or risk-taking behavior, as it suggests a willingness to step outside one's comfort zone and embrace excitement for its own sake. In this sense, it denotes a certain level of spontaneity and a desire to break free from everyday routine, inviting individuals to venture into unfamiliar territory and engage in activities without the usual constraints of practicality or consequence.
The phrase "for kicks" has its roots in colloquial American English slang. "Kicks" in this context is a term used to describe excitement, pleasure, or enjoyment derived from an action or experience. The origins of the phrase are not specifically documented, but it emerged in American English vernacular in the mid-20th century.
It is thought that "kicks" in this expression likely derived from the verb "kick" itself, which can mean "to strike or hit with the foot". In a figurative sense, “kicks” might relate to the idea of the thrill or adrenaline rush one might experience from engaging in spontaneous, exciting, or even slightly rebellious activities. Over time, this led to the development of the phrase "for kicks" to mean doing something just for fun or enjoyment, without any particular purpose or consequence.