25+ Weird Slang Terms That Were Hugely Popular in Past Decades

In the past, ‘meat wagon’, later known as ‘paddy wagon’, was a slang term used to refer to an ambulance. Originating in American English during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, ‘meat wagon’ conveyed a grim and utilitarian image of the vehicle used to transport injured or deceased individuals.

The term ‘paddy wagon’ likely evolved from the earlier usage, with ‘paddy’ being a derogatory term for Irish immigrants who were often employed as police officers or ambulance drivers. While ‘meat wagon’ and ‘paddy wagon’ are now considered outdated and potentially offensive, they remain poignant reminders of historical attitudes towards emergency medical services.