Posted in Louisiana May 17, 2022

15 Words You'll Only Understand If You're From Louisiana

In the Bayou State, just like in every state, there are some Louisiana words and phrases that are so natural to utter they've become second nature. Local dialect can speak volumes in regards to a state's culture, unique history, and traditions. Louisiana is rich in Cajun and Creole influences and many sayings have thus evolved out of those influences. Here are just a handful of sayings you're sure to hear all the time in this Southern state.

1. "Put Up"

As in: the kids better "put up" their toys so Dad doesn't trip on them.

2. "Do-do"

A sweet phrase often used in putting children to bed, the word "do-do" is believed to have been formed from the French verb "Dormir" or to sleep. Nighty night!

3. "Couillon"

Your little sister who borrowed your favorite dress without asking? Yes, she would be a "couillon" or a loving little fool.

4. "Save"

Save the dishes! What do they need saving for? No worries, to save simply means to put away.

5. "Making Groceries"

Making groceries is the only way to put food on the table, which is just what this phrase means! This is Louisiana's sister to putting bread on the table.

6. "Make a Pass"

Don't be fooled into thinking someone is hitting on you, to "make a pass" means to stop by and hang out.

7. "Ya Mama and dem"

"Dem" is the brood and "ya mama" is, well, ya mama. In other words, this phrase means the family.

8. "Rodier"

People don't just wander around Louisiana; they rodier. Fahncyyy

9. "I gotta use it!"

Any child will utter that phrase when they have to use the bathroom REALLY bad. You better let them and not stand in their way!

10. "Come See"

Come see, Come see! Right beside me! In Louisiana, folks ask to "come see" rather than "come here" although it means the same thing.

11. "Are you gonna get down?"

Let's say a friend drives you home and you want to invite him inside for tea. You would not ask him to come in, but rather to get down. That is way more fun if you ask me.

12. "Mais!"

Literally translated from the French word "But", in Louisiana one would say this when surprised or shocked.

13. "Sha"

Born from the French word "Cher" which means dear one, "Sha" is the sound of Cher in Cajun French and means exactly the same thing. It's used interchangeably with: dear, honey, babe, sweetheart, the list goes on!

14. "Ya'll"

This phrase refers to a group of people.

15. "Tenny Shoe"

Folks up north call them sneakers or tennis shoes. Either way down south, they're just "Tenny shoes"!

Are there any other Louisiana words or phrases that you hear around the Bayou State that aren't on this list? Tell us about them in the comments below!We hav

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Louisiana Words

May 22, 2022

Sarah M.

What are some other Louisiana words and sayings?

We have our own language here in Louisiana, and we're quite proud of it! In addition to Louisiana words and phrases like "save the dishes"  and "fixin' to," sometimes we like to get a little fancy with some French and Creole, saying things like Laissez les bon temps rouler or Lagniappe.If you're scratching your head and wondering what in the world those phrases mean, you'll want to consult this list of Louisiana words and sayings. During Mardi Gras season, we've been known to shout "throw me somethin', mister" when we're wanting some beads and swag, but if someone in Louisiana utters Gris Gris in your presence, look out! This is an old Voodoo curse that no good can come from.

Does Louisiana have its own language?

It's not incorrect to say that Louisiana has its own language, and here's why: Louisiana has a deep history with both Native Americans and the French, and you'll see those influences everywhere — especially with regard to language. If you're from the Bayou State, then these words will be a piece of cake for you to pronounce, but tourists and newbies may stumble over a word or two. Words like Tchoupitoulas, Natchitoches, Tchefuncte, Tangipahoa, Opelousas, Atchafalaya, and Pontchartrain always cause a bit of a tongue tie, and even long-time Louisianians sometimes have trouble pronouncing them! But here's one everyone should know and nail: New Orleans. nYou'd think this one out be a no-brainer, but there are actually two different pronunciations, depending on what you're referring to. If you're talking about the parish, then its pronounced "New Or-LEENS" (rhymes with jeans). If you're talking about the city, then go with "New or-LINDZ." Get it right, and we'll love you forever! Get it wrong, and you'll most definitely stick out as a tourist.