National Stick Out Your Tongue Day

Young child sticking out tongue, wearing colorful clothes, playful expression, outdoor playground setting.. — National stick out your tongue day illustration

Have you ever wanted to express yourself in the most playful and mischievous way possible? Well, get ready because National Stick Out Your Tongue Day is here to give everyone a license to make silly faces and have a jolly good time!

When is Stick Out Your Tongue Day?

It's national stick out your tongue day on the 19th July.

The Origins of National Stick Out Your Tongue Day

While the exact origin of National Stick Out Your Tongue Day remains a mystery, some believe it dates back to ancient times when people would use facial expressions to communicate nonverbally. Others claim it was popularized by mischievous children who discovered the joy of sticking their tongues out at each other.

Fast forward to the modern era, and thanks to the power of the internet, National Stick Out Your Tongue Day gained worldwide recognition. People from all corners of the globe now participate in this whimsical celebration of silliness and self-expression.

How to Celebrate National Stick Out Your Tongue Day

Celebrating National Stick Out Your Tongue Day is as simple as, well, sticking out your tongue! Embrace your inner child and let your tongue do the talking. Stick it out at a friend, a loved one, a sneaky squirrel, or even your own reflection—just make sure it's all in good fun!

If you want to take your celebration to the next level, organize a tongue-sticking contest with your friends or family. See who can hold out their tongue the longest without bursting into laughter. It's guaranteed to bring out the giggles and create unforgettable memories.

Did You Know?

Did you know that sticking out your tongue is not just a silly gesture? In some cultures, it is actually considered a sign of respect or a way to show appreciation. So, the next time someone sticks their tongue out at you, don't be too quick to judge—they might just be saying, 'Thank you for being awesome!'

History behind the term 'Stick Out Your Tongue'

3000 BCE

Ancient Origins

In ancient times, the act of sticking out one's tongue had symbolic significance in various cultures. It represented defiance, mockery, or as a means of expressing negative emotions like disgust. Many ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, believed that the tongue was a powerful organ associated with magical and spiritual abilities.

1st Century CE

Medical Beliefs Emergence

During the 1st century CE, Greek physician, philosopher, and polymath Galen developed the theory of body humors. According to Galen, when someone fell ill, an imbalance of the body's four humors (blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm) caused the sickness. Examination of the tongue became an important diagnostic tool in this system of medicine.

15th Century

Grammar and Etiquette

In the 15th century, the act of sticking out one's tongue continued to evolve and took on new meanings. It became associated with grammar and etiquette, specifically related to pronunciation. Correct pronunciation and clarity of speech were emphasized, and sticking out one's tongue became a way to correct oneself or indicate that someone else was not speaking correctly.

19th Century

Tongue as a Sign of Teasing

During the 19th century, sticking out one's tongue gained popularity as a gesture of teasing and playful mockery. It became a humorous way of amusing children or provoking laughter in social interactions. This light-hearted interpretation of the act helped shape the phrase's connotation as a symbol of lighthearted jesting.

20th Century

Expression of Disgust

In the 20th century, sticking out one's tongue took on another meaning associated with disgust. It became a non-verbal expression of distaste, contempt, or disapproval. This usage is often seen as a response to something unpleasant or offensive, conveying a strong negative emotion without the need for words.

21st Century

Internet Meme and Global Popularity

In recent years, the phrase 'stick out your tongue' has gained even more prominence due to its association with internet memes and viral trends. With the emergence of social media platforms, sticking out one's tongue has become a popular selfie pose and a way of expressing carefree or mischievous behavior. It transcends cultural boundaries and has become a universal symbol of playfulness and self-expression in the digital age.