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

Welcome to our exploration of the unique linguistic landscape of America’s Dairyland, where the bubblers flow with fresh water and supper clubs serve up Friday fish fries. From donning cheesehead hats at Lambeau Field to indulging in kringle pastries with a brandy Old Fashioned in hand, Wisconsin’s vocabulary reflects the rich tapestry of its culture, cuisine, and cherished traditions. Join us as we uncover 10 words that offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Badger State.

Cheesehead

Credit: https://www.milwaukeeindependent.com/syndicated/cheesehead-couture-geographic-slur-hometown-pride-global-fashion-accessory/

Refers to a person from Wisconsin or a fan of the Green Bay Packers football team, often associated with the iconic foam cheesehead hats worn by fans.

Bratwurst

A type of German sausage, often made with pork and/or beef, popular in Wisconsin and frequently served grilled at cookouts and sporting events.

Bubbler

A regional term for a drinking fountain, commonly used in Wisconsin and parts of neighboring states such as Minnesota and Michigan.

Dairyland

Refers to Wisconsin’s nickname, “America’s Dairyland,” due to its prominence in dairy farming and cheese production, symbolized by the iconic image of a Holstein cow on Wisconsin license plates.

Kringle

A type of sweet pastry originating from Denmark, popular in Wisconsin, particularly in communities with Danish heritage such as Racine, where it is often enjoyed with coffee.

Supper Club

A type of dining establishment found predominantly in Wisconsin, characterized by its retro ambiance, hearty comfort food, and tradition of serving relish trays and brandy Old Fashioned cocktails.

Brandy Old Fashioned

A cocktail made with brandy, sugar, bitters, and soda water, often garnished with an orange slice and maraschino cherry, considered a signature drink of Wisconsin and a staple at supper clubs.

Up North

Refers to the northern part of Wisconsin, a region characterized by its dense forests, abundant lakes, and outdoor recreational opportunities, often seen as a getaway destination for residents of southern Wisconsin.

Friday Fish Fry

A traditional meal consisting of fried fish, often cod or perch, served with sides like French fries, coleslaw, and rye bread, typically enjoyed on Fridays in Wisconsin, especially during the Lenten season.

Sconnie

A colloquial term for a person from Wisconsin, derived from the pronunciation of “Wisconsin,” often used as a term of endearment or pride among Wisconsinites.