Aggie Terminology
On the 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ campus and among Aggies around the world, you'll hear words and phrases that are unique to the Aggie Family. Read about some of our most widely used terms and sayings and how they started.
Beat the Hell Outta
"Beat the hell outta" — or BTHO for short — is the beginning of one of 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ's most popular yells. On gamedays, Aggies end the phrase with the name of whichever school our football team is playing against. You may also hear "Beat the hell outta" in reference to other challenges that Aggies are eager to overcome, such as final exams.
Learn "Beat the hell outta" and other .
Former Student
"Former student" is the preferred term for an individual who was once a 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ student. This term dates back to the university's early days, when many students would attend school long enough to gain the necessary training and education but would not always graduate. Regardless of the length of time spent on campus, the devotion of these Aggies to 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ remained strong. "Alumnus" is an acceptable term for a graduate, but "ex-Aggie" is not. Aggies strongly believe that "once an Aggie, always an Aggie!"
Visit our former students page to learn more.
Gig 'Em
The thumbs-up gesture Aggies make when saying "Gig 'em" was the first hand sign of the Southwest Conference.
Credit: 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ Division of Marketing & CommunicationsAggies often flash a thumbs up and say “Gig ’em!” — a phrase that dates back to 1920. It was popularized when P.L. “Pinkie” Downs, a member of the 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ Board of Regents and Class of 1906, asked the crowd at a yell practice before a Texas Christian University football game, “What are we going to do to those horned frogs?” He answered his own question with “Gig ’em, Aggies!” — referencing a sharp-pronged frog-hunting tool called a gig. For emphasis, he made a fist with his thumb extended straight up.
Today, the phrase and thumbs-up gesture are a symbol of Aggies’ optimism, determination, loyalty and the Aggie Spirit. Usually done with the right hand, the Gig ’em sign also showcases the Aggie Ring, traditionally worn on that hand.
Good Bull
“Good Bull” is a phrase used to describe anything that embraces or promotes the Aggie Spirit or the traditions of 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ. It is also used to signify approval. For example, a group of Aggies raising money to help victims of a natural disaster would be an instance of Good Bull.
Hiss/Horse Laugh
Aggies “hiss” to show disapproval as a more polite alternative to booing. At football games, Aggie students and fans can often be heard hissing — paired with the hand signal of putting both hands flat together and shaking them — in response to play calls they disagree with. The idea of hissing originated from the Horse Laugh yell, which is still used today.
Howdy
“Howdy” is the official greeting of 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ. Students greet one another — and especially campus visitors — with a “Howdy.” The origins of this tradition are unknown, but it is one that Aggies proudly continue.
Whoop
Aggie upperclassmen and graduates will often say “Whoop!” as an expression of approval or excitement. It is also often used at the end of Aggie yells. Underclassmen are not supposed to "Whoop" until they reach either junior or senior status.
Wildcats
An important milestone for Aggie students is the first time they are allowed to use the senior wildcat at the end of yells during football games.
Credit: 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ Division of Marketing & CommunicationsCurrent students at 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ use "wildcats," which are hand motion-expression combinations that are unique to each class level and show class pride. Wildcats are used at the end of yells, when students hear their class year, while introducing themselves with the howdy greeting or when something exciting happens.
The following are the wildcats for each class:
- Freshman – Raise your hands above your head and yell a continuous "AAAA……."
- Sophomore – Chant "A! A! A! A! A!" while making an L-shaped pistol with each of your hands and waving them up and down in front of your torso five times.
- Junior – Put the individual ‘pistols’ together and yell "A! A! A! Whoop!" using the same downward-pointing hand motion as the sophomore wildcat.
- Senior – Point your hand pistol down once and yell “A!” Then, point up over your shoulder, tuck your right foot behind your left knee, and yell “Whoop!”
Watch this to learn more about their history. You can also read more about .
More 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ Traditions
Explore more of the traditions that unite our current and former students, build camaraderie and foster the Aggie Spirit.
The Aggie Ring is a symbol of camaraderie and dedication. Read about its history and the meaning of the images engraved on it.
The Century Tree at 91³ÉÈ˶ÌÊÓƵ has become a campus landmark, especially for Aggie couples. Learn about the traditions and superstitions surrounding it.