Here are 10 Words You’ll Only Understand if you Hail from New Jersey

Welcome to our exploration of the linguistic quirks of the Garden State, where the turnpike hums with traffic and diners serve up pork roll sandwiches at all hours. From the bustling boardwalks of the Jersey Shore to the tranquil pine forests of the Pine Barrens, New Jersey’s vocabulary reflects the unique blend of urban energy, coastal charm, and natural beauty that defines life in this diverse and dynamic state. Join us as we uncover 10 words that provide a glimpse into the experiences and identity of those hailing from New Jersey.

Fuhgeddaboudit

Credit: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-09-19/fuhgeddaboudit-is-added-to-the-oxford-english-dictionary

One of the most well-known New Jersey expressions is “fuhgeddaboudit.” This phrase, often associated with Italian-American communities, is used to dismiss or forget about something. It signifies letting go of a situation or idea, often implying that it’s not worth worrying or discussing further. The phrase has gained popularity through its use in movies and television shows, becoming synonymous with the New Jersey dialect.

Shoobie

A term used by residents of the Jersey Shore to refer to tourists or day-trippers who visit the beach for the day, often recognizable by the items they bring in large bags or “shoobie” boxes.

Pine Barrens

Refers to the extensive pine forests and wilderness areas in southern New Jersey, known for their unique ecosystem and the legend of the Jersey Devil.

Wawa

A convenience store chain popular in New Jersey, known for its made-to-order sandwiches, coffee, and other convenience items.

Benny

A derogatory term used by locals at the Jersey Shore to describe tourists from northern areas like New York City and Philadelphia, often seen as rude or disrespectful to local customs.

The Turnpike

Refers to the New Jersey Turnpike, a major toll road that runs the length of the state from north to south, connecting cities like Newark, Elizabeth, and Trenton with Philadelphia and New York City.

Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese

A popular breakfast sandwich in New Jersey, typically made with sliced pork roll, a fried egg, and melted cheese on a roll or bagel.

Boardwalk

Refers to the wooden walkways that line many beaches along the Jersey Shore, known for their amusement parks, arcades, and vendors selling food and souvenirs.

Jughandle

A jughandle is a unique traffic feature commonly found in New Jersey. Instead of making a left turn directly across traffic, drivers use a jughandle to make a right turn and then loop around to the left. This design helps improve traffic flow and safety on busy roads.

Parkway

Refers to the Garden State Parkway, a major toll road that runs north-south through New Jersey, connecting the Jersey Shore with the northern suburbs and New York City.