The phrase "get kicks" is commonly spelled as [ɡɛt kɪks]. The first syllable "get" is pronounced with an open-mid front unrounded vowel sound, while the second syllable "kicks" is pronounced with a short i vowel sound followed by a voiceless velar stop. The spelling of this phrase accurately reflects its pronunciation, with the use of the letter "c" to represent the "k" sound, and an "s" at the end of "kicks" to indicate the plural form. This phrase is commonly used to describe finding enjoyment or excitement in life.
"Get kicks" is an idiomatic expression referring to the act of seeking or deriving pleasure, excitement, or enjoyment from a particular activity, situation, or experience. The term "kicks" in this context represents a sense of thrill, exhilaration, or fascination gained from engaging in or witnessing something.
This phrase is often used to describe one's pursuit of entertainment, unconventional experiences, or activities that provide a sense of novelty or adventure. It implies a desire to find enjoyment through unconventional or even daring means. The focus is typically on acquiring a feeling of satisfaction or pleasure, rather than pursuing a practical or productive outcome.
For instance, someone might say they "get kicks" from adrenaline-inducing sports like bungee jumping or rock climbing. Others might "get kicks" from attending live concerts, participating in extreme sports, exploring new places, or indulging in thrilling experiences. The phrase usually carries a connotation of seeking amusement or fulfillment from experiences that are not considered ordinary or mundane.
Overall, "get kicks" refers to the pursuit of personal pleasure and gratification through exciting or unconventional experiences, highlighting an individual's enjoyment of the thrilling and exhilarating aspects of life.
The phrase "get kicks" has its origins in American slang from the 1950s and 1960s. It evolved from an earlier expression, "kick (or kicks) in the head", which meant experiencing a pleasurable or exciting sensation. This use of "kick" likely derived from the idea of a jolt or thrill, similar to the physical sensation of being kicked. Over time, "get kicks" emerged as a more informal way to say "gain pleasure or excitement" from something. The term became particularly associated with activities involving unconventional or intense forms of enjoyment, such as thrill-seeking adventures or indulging in vices.