Here are 19 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from Louisiana

Howdy folks! Welcome to the bayou, where the language is as rich and flavorful as a pot of gumbo. In this exploration of Louisiana’s linguistic landscape, we’re unraveling 19 slang terms that weave the colorful tapestry of the Pelican State’s unique culture. So grab your coffee and beignets, as we embark on a journey through the laughter-inducing, heartwarming, and downright quirky expressions that only true Louisianans will fully grasp.

Lagniappe

Something extra, a little bonus or unexpected gift. It’s a term often used in the context of getting a little extra at a market or restaurant.

Dressed

Sandwich toppings

Pinch The Tail and Suck The Head

Crawfish eating. How you eat crawfish: once the head of the crawfish is separated from the tail you pinch the bottom — loosening up the meat to eat it — and then you suck the tasty seasoned juices from the crawfish head!

Hurrication

Vacation during storm season. During hurricane season, many New Orleanians take a short vacation out of state.

Bayou Bubble Bath

Playfully describing a rainstorm, especially a heavy one, as if Mother Nature is giving the bayou a good cleansing.

Crawfish Coma

The state of extreme fullness and satisfaction after indulging in a large quantity of delicious boiled crawfish.

Holy Trinity

Cajun flavoring. If you want a good étouffée, gumbo, or jambalaya, it all starts with the holy trinity of Cajun cooking: onions, bell peppers, and celery.

Boudin

A type of sausage, often made with pork and rice, seasoned with various spices. It’s a staple in Louisiana cuisine.

Gumbo Ya-Ya

This whimsical term is often used to describe a lively and noisy situation, echoing the joyful chaos that can happen during a festive gathering.

Laissez les bons temps rouler

French for “Let the good times roll,” this phrase captures the celebratory spirit of Louisiana, especially during events like Mardi Gras.

Who Dat

A cheer and rallying cry for the New Orleans Saints, the local NFL team. It’s also a general expression of support and identity.

Muffuletta

A type of sandwich that originated among Italian immigrants in New Orleans, typically made with a round sesame-seed bread and various cold cuts and olive salad.

Gator Bait

While serious in some contexts, in a humorous tone, it can refer to someone who’s a bit naive or easily fooled.

Jambalaya Jester

Someone who’s particularly skilled at whipping up a delicious jambalaya, showcasing a sense of culinary humor.

Crawfish Boil

A social event where crawfish are boiled with spices and other ingredients, creating a delicious and communal dining experience.

Neutral Ground

The median or divider in the middle of a street, especially in New Orleans. It’s where people traditionally gather during Mardi Gras parades.

Makin’ groceries

An expression for going grocery shopping. It’s a term often associated with the distinctive local accent.

Laissez-faire

Beyond its traditional meaning, in Louisiana, it’s often used to describe a laid-back or easygoing attitude towards life.

Fais do-do

A Cajun dance party or social gathering, often featuring live music, dancing, and good times. The term is derived from the French phrase “fais-le dormir” meaning “make him sleep,” as in getting the children to sleep while the party goes on.