Here are 23 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from Texas

Howdy, y’all! If you’ve ever found yourself fixin’ to understand the peculiar lingo of the Lone Star State, you’re in for a treat. In this hilarious journey through Texan vernacular, we’ll explore 23 funny slang terms that’ll have you grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ sweet taters – and, rest assured, you’ll soon be two-steppin’ through the linguistic charm that makes Texas truly one-of-a-kind.

Y’all

While not exclusive to Texas, the Texan use of “y’all” is iconic. It’s the go-to plural form of “you” and a staple in Texan communication.

Fixin’ to

When a Texan says they’re “fixin’ to” do something, it means they’re getting ready or about to do it. “I’m fixin’ to grab a taco.”

Corn-fed

Sure, that large steer-riding hunk in the cowboy hat and Wranglers may be “beefy,” but in Texas, we call our fit neighbors “corn-fed.”

This Ain’t my first Rodeo

Slang saying for having experience.

Toad Choker

In other parts of the country it rains cats and dogs, but in Texas, a heavy downpour is a “toad choker.” Makes sense in a state where rivers flood frequently and with little warning.

Skeeters

The skeeters get bad in parts of Texas, especially in the swampier, more humid southeast. Skeeters meaning mosquitos, naturally. Because who needs all those syllables?

Bless Your Heart

Often used as a polite way to express sympathy or understanding, but it can also be subtly condescending in certain contexts.

Pitch a Hissy Fit

To pitch a hissy fit means to throw a tantrum. While it’s often used for children, adults can also pitch hissy fits.

Git-R-done

To get something done.

Howdy

A classic Texan greeting, short for “How do you do?” It’s the epitome of Southern hospitality.

Aggie

Referring to students and alumni of Texas A&M University. It’s a term of camaraderie and pride.

Hankerin’

If you have a hankerin’ for something, you have a strong desire or craving. “I’ve got a hankerin’ for some barbecue.”

All Hat, No Cattle

Describes someone who talks big but lacks the substance to back it up.

Buggy

In Texas, a “buggy” isn’t an insect; it’s a shopping cart. “Grab a buggy for the groceries.”

Broke Bad

A certain hit AMC television show has recently popularized the phrase “breaking bad.” But in Texas, we have long used “broke bad” to describe someone who came from a good family but didn’t turn out right. The phrase originates from the training of animals, such as a broke horse that turned out wild or bad.

Cattywampus

Askew or awry. “The picture frame is all cattywampus.”

Lone Star State

Referring to Texas, this nickname comes from the single star on the state flag and represents Texan pride.

Two-Steppin’

A traditional Texan dance often done to country music. “Let’s hit the dance floor and do some two-steppin’.”

Blue Norther

A sudden and strong cold front that sweeps across the state, bringing a rapid drop in temperatures.

Texas Toast

Thick-cut toast, often buttered and grilled. It’s a staple in many Texan households.

Icebox

Just as the term “ice house” harkens back to a certain kind of store or waterhole, dating back to a simpler time when ice distributors sold all sorts of necessary household items, the ice box is the place where you store your perishables. That is, the fridge.

Tump

To tip or knock over. “Don’t tump over that bucket.”

Bubba

A friendly, often affectionate, term for a close friend or companion. “Hey, Bubba, let’s grab some barbecue.”