Here are 27 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from South Dakota

Embark on a linguistic voyage through the Mount Rushmore State as we unveil 27 distinctive slang terms that resonate uniquely with South Dakotans. From savoring the flavors of “Chislic” at local gatherings to experiencing the Rushmorean charm of the Black Hills, South Dakota’s lexicon reflects a rich tapestry of history, landscape, and regional pride. Whether you’re a proud resident of the Coyote State or a curious outsider, join us in decoding the linguistic gems that make South Dakota’s vernacular as diverse and captivating as its vast prairies.

Mount Rushmore State

A nickname for South Dakota, derived from the famous Mount Rushmore monument located in the Black Hills.

You betcha!

This one might be used elsewhere, but South Dakotans truly take on the phrase and make it their own. It can be used for “you bet” or even, “you’re welcome!”

Scotcheroos

Scotcheroos are dessert bars with chocolate, butterscotch, peanut butter, and Rice Krispies.

Crick

Even though it’s spelled “creek,” we pronounce it “crick.” Don’t get confused!

Dakota Territory

Refers to the historical region encompassing both North and South Dakota before they became separate states.

French won’t help you here.

If you grew up in South Dakota, you’ll understand that the French pronunciation of our capital is wrong. One way to tell if someone is a true South Dakotan is whether they say “peer” or not.

Taverns

Sloppy Joe. What other Americans call a Sloppy Joe, South Dakotans call a tavern (or loosemeat). It’s like a Sloppy Joe but without the tomato!

Coyote State

Another nickname for South Dakota, highlighting the prevalence of coyotes in the state.

Its noon! Time for dinner

Wait, afternoon? Don’t you eat dinner in the evening? Nope, in South Dakota lunch is dinner and dinner is supper. Don’t worry, you’ll catch on soon.

Plumb tuckered out

Extremely tired. The only correct response to this phrase in South Dakota is, “You pert’near done run yourself ragged.”

It’s Kitty Corner From Here

This means diagonal from where you’re currently standing. It’s kitty corner, not catty.

Hot Beef

Roast Beef Sandwich. The best sandwich in the entire state: hot beef sandwiches with mashed potatoes and gravy are an open-faced sandwich that is pure comfort food.

Pheasant Country

A term emphasizing South Dakota’s reputation as a prime destination for pheasant hunting.

Wrasslin’

Wrestling (or, as they say in South Dakota, ‘wrasslin’) is one of the most popular sports in the state.

Truck Topper

Truck canopy. Otherwise called a canopy and a camper shell in other parts of the country.

Cattywampus

According to a recent study, this is the most used slang term in the entire state. What does it mean? Something that is not lined up correctly, or diagonally. 

Rushmorean

Describes anything related to or reminiscent of Mount Rushmore, such as the Rushmorean atmosphere of the Black Hills.

Sodak

A colloquial abbreviation for South Dakota, often used informally in conversation.

Chislic

A regional dish of skewered and grilled meat, often made with lamb or beef, popular in South Dakota.

Dances with Wolves

Refers to the iconic film directed by and starring Kevin Costner, which was partly filmed in South Dakota.

Badlands

Refers to the rugged and eroded landscape found in Badlands National Park, a distinctive natural feature of South Dakota.

Hiawatha

A nod to the poem “The Song of Hiawatha” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, with references to Native American culture.

605

The area code for the entire state of South Dakota, used as a regional identifier.

Black Hills Gold

A type of jewelry that originated in the Black Hills region, known for its distinctive design and use of gold and other precious metals.

Wounded Knee

A reference to the Wounded Knee Massacre, a tragic event in South Dakota’s history involving conflict between Native Americans and the U.S. government.

Falls Park

Refers to a popular park in Sioux Falls, known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic landscapes.

Missouri River

The longest river in North America, flowing through South Dakota and holding cultural and historical significance.