Where did wassup originate?

"Wassup" is a shortened version of "What's up?". While its exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, it's generally considered to be a slang term that emerged in the late 20th century in African American Vernacular English (AAVE).

Here's a breakdown of its potential origins and spread:

* AAVE roots: "What's up" itself has been around for a long time, but "Wassup" is thought to have gained popularity as a shortened, more casual, and distinctly African American way of saying it. This use of "Wassup" was prevalent in the 1980s and 90s.

* Commercialization: The phrase gained immense exposure when the "Wassup" commercial for Budweiser beer aired in 1999. The commercial featured a group of friends greeting each other with "Wassup", making it a catchphrase across demographics.

* Pop culture: The commercial's success further solidified the phrase's popularity and spread it beyond the African American community. It appeared in other commercials, TV shows, movies, and music, becoming a part of mainstream culture.

It's worth noting that the exact origin of "Wassup" remains somewhat unclear, as slang terms often evolve organically within specific communities. However, its widespread use and recognition can be traced back to its roots in AAVE and its subsequent exposure through the Budweiser commercial.