Here are 25 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from Maine

Welcome to Vacationland, where the air smells of pine, the sea breeze carries tales of lobster lore, and the language has a flavor as distinct as blueberries fresh from the bush. From the iconic “Bean Boot Boogie” to the hearty “Lumberjack Lilt,” Mainers have a linguistic flair that adds a touch of whimsy to their everyday conversations. In this exploration of 25 chuckle-inducing slang terms, join us on a journey through the colloquial charm that makes being from Maine a uniquely delightful experience.

Vacationland

Maine’s official nickname, occasionally used humorously to refer to the state’s popularity as a vacation destination.

Ayuh

Means yes, or at least acknowledgment from a Mainah.

Lobstah Lover

A term of endearment for someone with a deep appreciation for Maine’s iconic lobster.

Chowdah

Delicious Maine soup of white cream usually chock full of clams or lobster

Deah

A four-legged animal with antlers – deer, smaller than a moose but still good huntin, fill ya freezah all wintah!

Clickah

TV remote controller

Bub

A nickname for anyone. Maine’s charming answer to “dude.”

Moxie Maven

An individual with a fondness for Moxie, a unique soda that originated in Maine and is an acquired taste for many.

Bah Hahbah

Bar Harbor pronounced by a Mainah – you see “er” is pronounced ah… “r’s” dont get a lot of love in Maine

Cah

Slang for Car.

Pine Tree Peculiar

A humorous term for something quirky or unique in the Pine Tree State.

Lobster Lingo

The specific vocabulary and knowledge associated with lobstering and the lobster industry in Maine.

Upta camp

No matter where it is geographically, going “upta camp” means you are going to a more rustic place—usually a camp or cabin on a lake, river, or the coast. Going upta camp is a beloved Maine tradition.

Bean Boot Boogie

The distinctive way Mainers navigate snowy or muddy conditions with their iconic L.L.Bean boots.

Cunning

Cute or adorable. Most frequently heard from old timers with an added pinch on the cheek.

Wicked Good

An expression used to emphasize the excellence or quality of something, commonly heard in Maine.

Down East Drawl

The slow and deliberate way of speaking, often associated with residents from Down East, the coastal region of Maine.

Blueberry Banter

Engaging in lively and animated conversations, often flavored with a touch of humor, particularly during blueberry season.

Moose Maneuver

The skillful and cautious driving techniques employed by Mainers when encountering moose on the road.

Puffin Patter

The friendly and informal chatter heard during visits to coastal areas where puffins can be spotted.

Yessah

An exclamation of agreement.

Foghorn Funnies

Jokes and humor specific to the atmospheric conditions along Maine’s coast, where foghorns are a familiar sound.

Lumberjack Lilt

The rhythmic and hearty laughter often heard among those involved in Maine’s forestry and logging industries.

Whale Watch Whimsy

The light-hearted and jovial mood experienced during whale-watching excursions along Maine’s shores.

Moosehead Mingle

The socializing and camaraderie that occurs around Moosehead Lake, Maine’s largest lake and a popular recreation destination.