So You Wanna Talk Like a Sooner? A Hilarious Guide to Oklahoma Slang
Howdy, partners! Ever get the feeling you're lost in conversation with an Okie? You might not be imagining things. Here in Oklahoma, we've got a way with words that can leave outsiders scratching their heads faster than a tick on a blue dog (that's a whole other story). But fear not, pilgrim! This here guide will have you yeehawing like a native in no time.
Fixin' to Decipher: Essential Oklahoma Lingo
- Fixin' to - This ain't carpentry, folks. It just means "getting ready to" do something. Example: "I'm fixin' to head down to the Sonic for a cherry limeade."
- Y'all - The universal Okie pronoun. You can use it for one person, ten people, or a herd of cattle. Example: "Y'all coming to the cookout?"
- How's your maw and them? - A friendly greeting inquiring about your mother (maw) and your family ("them"). Example: "How's your maw and them? Y'all doing alright?"
- Bless your heart - Can be genuine well wishes or a sassy backhand. Depends on the delivery, bless your heart. Example: (Sweetly) "Bless your heart, you look hot out there. Here, have some sweet tea." (Sarcastically) "Bless your heart, you think you can park there?"
- Lit - Not just for fire anymore. Can describe something exciting, delicious, or downright fantastic. Example: "This firework show is lit!" or "These fried pickles are lit!"
Bonus points: Learn how to pronounce "pecan" the proper Okie way (it rhymes with "heckan'").
Hold Your Horses! Not-So-Common Oklahoma Gems
- Whereabouts - Don't ask where someone is from, ask about their whereabouts. It's more polite, like you're giving them some privacy, you know?
- Poke - Not a playful nudge. It's a small stream. Don't go skinny dipping in a random poke, you might get more than a chill.
- Supper - We don't do dinner here. It's supper, and don't you forget it!
Remember: There's a fine line between sounding like a wannabe cowboy and a true Okie. Speak slowly, with a hint of drawl, and use these phrases sparingly at first. You don't want to stick out like a sore thumb at a rodeo.
Howdy, FAQ Partner!
How to greet an Okie?
A friendly "Howdy" or "How's your maw and them?" will do just fine.
How to pronounce Oklahoma?
Ok-la-HO-ma. Don't forget to stress that second syllable!
How to fit in at a cookout?
Bring a dish to share and be prepared to talk about the weather (it's a big deal here).
How to avoid an awkward silence?
Ask about high school football. We take it very seriously.
How to know if you've gone too far?
If someone offers you a "fried bologna sandwich," politely decline. It's probably a test.
Now you're (almost) ready to navigate the wonderful world of Oklahoma slang. Just remember, folks, there's more to this state than meets the eye (or ear). So grab yourself a glass of sweet tea, sit on the porch swing, and get ready to chat with the friendliest folks you'll ever meet.
