Which of these U.S. cities is home to the versatile slang word "jawn"?
Regional lingo
Say these terms, and we'll guess where you grew up
Language works because it changes; science says so! Across the globe, people use different words for the same things. But here's the fun part: even within the US, regional slang and expressions vary significantly. What you call something in Massachusetts might mean something totally different in Oregon. Let's explore these 10 regional terms and see what they reveal about where you grew up!
Image: Houcine Ncib
Jawn
If you spend time chatting with someone from Philadelphia, this word will probably come up. "Jawn" is a unique term that can refer to just about anything: objects, people, or places.
Image: Salonagility.com Daniel
Sneakers
If you're going to the gym today, make sure you bring your workout clothes and water bottle. Don't forget your tennis shoes, which, by the way, people in the US Northeast often call "sneakers"!
Image: Luis Felipe Lins
Ope!
When you drop a glass or accidentally step on the dog's tail, "ope!" is the perfect word to say. In the Midwest, especially in states like Wisconsin and Minnesota, people use this expression whenever something surprising or a small accident happens. It's like a version of "Oops!"
Image: CHUTTERSNAP
Bubbler
Have you ever drunk from a "bubbler"? If you're from New England, we're sure you have, because that's what people in that region call drinking fountains. If you didn't know this fact, don't worry! A study found that only 18% of people use this original and creative term.
Image: Deborah L Carlson
Sugar
This term is better known than the last one, so you've probably heard it before. In the southern US, when you kiss someone—either on the lips or on the cheek—you're giving them "sugar." So sweet!
Image: Jonah Pettrich
Wicked
While for most Americans, "wicked" means something evil, that's not the case for the people of Massachusetts. In the Bay State, residents use "wicked" as an intensifier to describe something cool or awesome. Instead of saying their food is "really good", they say: "Our Clam Chowder is wicked good."
Image: Josh Rakower
Gnarly
Coming from surfer culture, "gnarly" is West Coast slang for something exciting, intense, or really cool. It was originally used to describe big, rough waves, so it can also mean "challenging."
Image: Collin
Ayuh
If you've ever asked a question and got "ayuh" as an answer, chances are you were in Maine. Locals there use this expression, pronounced "a-yuh," to say "yes." It might sound odd to outsiders, but for Mainers, it's everyday talk!
Image: Jon Tyson
Ragamuffin
You definitely don't wanna be called a "ragamuffin." Why? Well, in the southern part of the country, this term refers to someone who looks dirty or messy. In other words, a "ragamuffin" is someone who doesn't look their best.
Image: Tim Mossholder
Grinder
Sandwiches have many nicknames in different parts of the U.S., and New England is no exception! In Connecticut and parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, this delicious staple is called a "Grinder."
Image: Mae Mu
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