Arizona
Experience Arizona’s unique vibes and hilarious local sayings. From “chizhii” for dry and rough skin to “oven mitts” for scorching steering wheels, you’ll be entertained by Arizona’s expressions. Stay cool with a “swamp box” (air conditioner), grab quality meat at the “carneceria” (butcher shop), and brace yourself for the unexpected “chubasco” (torrential rain).
California
Californians have a unique way of labeling things as “bomb” when they’re good. But if you find yourself stuck in never-ending freeway traffic, a dreaded “Sig alert” will definitely prolong your drive. So why not take a chill moment, grab a “drag” of that cigarette, and simply “post up” somewhere, which basically means finding a good spot to hang out?
Delaware
In the southern half, you’ll hear locals pronounce cauliflower as “Colley flare,” adding their own twist to the word. If someone is being mean or rude to you, they might be called an “Igner.” And when something’s really funny, they’ll say they’re “baggin’ up,” which is their way of saying they’re cracking up and laughing uncontrollably.
Florida
In Florida, a “jit” refers to a kid or someone younger than you. If you’re parked in “Goofy,” it means you’ve parked really far away from where you need to be. Watch out for those pesky “no-see-ums,” those tiny bugs that are practically invisible but sure know how to annoy you. Florida’s got its own lingo that’ll make you feel like a local in no time.
Georgia
In Georgia, when someone says “brick,” they’re referring to a long period of time. And if you hear “one monkey, don’t stop, no show,” it means you better keep working and get things done. And if someone tells you “that dog won’t hunt,” they’re expressing doubt or skepticism about what they’ve just heard.
Hawaii
When you’re in Hawaii, you’ll be calling food “grinds,” and if it’s incredibly delicious, you’ll say “ono grinds.” So get ready for some “chicken skin” moments when you hear captivating island stories that give you goosebumps. And when a “Lolo” (crazy) person suggests something to you, just say “shoots” to show your agreement.
Idaho
In some places, like in the South, they call a “creek” a “crick,” and they’re pretty adamant about their pronunciation. If you’re in the car, the glove compartment is known as the “jockey box.” And when they say “rig,” they’re referring to anything larger than a car, whether it’s a crossover, an SUV, or something even bigger.
Kansas
Discover unique expressions in different places like “caddy corner” (opposite corner), “burnt ends” (tasty barbecue bits), “that’s nice” (indifference), and “yardbird” (chicken). These local slang terms add flavor and character to each region, making it fun to explore and learn the local lingo.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, you’ll come across some interesting phrases like “lagniappe,” which means a bonus, like extra toppings on a “dressed” sandwich. And if you’re into crawfish, don’t forget to “pinch the tail and suck the head” for the full experience. It’s sure to satisfy your “envie” (craving) for some flavorful Louisiana cuisine.
Massachusetts
Certain places, like Boston, have their own unique local terms. For example, a submarine sandwich is called a “grinder,” and a roundabout is known as a “rotary.” When something is cool, it’s “wicked,” and if it’s exceptionally cool, it’s “wicked pissah.” And if you meet a local who grew up in a specific Boston neighborhood, they’re called a “townie.”