Slang used by the Rainbow Family

A glossary of slang used by the Rainbow Family, as gleaned from interviews

Associated Pres/July 3, 2004
By Don Thompson

Babylon: The outside world.

Bliss ninny: A Rainbow who spends most of his or her time stoned on marijuana.

Bliss pit: A fire pit.

Blissware: A cup, bowl, tin can or other container used for food and drink, usually tied to the waist when not in use.

Gathering: The annual national event held somewhere in a national forest.

Groovy Rainbow: A Rainbow who has a permanent home and job but enjoys the lifestyle. Also "weekend hippy."

Groundscores: Anything valuable found on the ground.

Hippie mace: A flashlight shined in the eyes of a stoned hippy.

L-E-O: Law enforcement officer.

Plumber: Usage: "Is there a plumber in the house? I've got a broken pipe." Translation: I need to borrow a marijuana pipe.

Road dog: A Rainbow who travels constantly between events, with no permanent home or job.

Six up: An L-E-O in a vehicle, named after the six rooftop lights.

Six up-giddyup: An L-E-O on horseback.

Turnip: Inexperienced Rainbows who "turn up" without proper equipment or clothing for the wilderness.

Weekend hippie: A Rainbow who has a permanent home and job but enjoys the lifestyle. Also groovy Rainbow.