Too Slow

The “too slow” variation of a high five occurs when one appears to be engaging in a high five initiation; however, the initiator succeeds in pulling their hand away before anyone can make contact.This is the only known “five” that may be used as an insult as well as a compliment, and, as early as 1971, was commonly followed by the taunting expression “too slow, buffalo!”

There are many variations on this theme, with additions of “at the side” and other hand positions for the partner to contact the initiator’s hand, and thus a greater number of opportunities for the initiator to deceive the victim.

"Up high."

"Down low."

Victim misses.

"Too slow!"

Can’t take any credit for this, but it’s what may well be the greatest wikipedia article out there, so I had to save it before it gets taken down. I love that the woman clearly got dressed up to take the photos, and yet looks genuinely pissed off. Serious acting chops.

This since deleted picture from the “Humpty Dumpty” article is the other contender for best wiki.

~ by Sandy Nicholson on May 20, 2011.