It’s Slang, Dang it!

Most know of the controversy between “soda” and “pop.” Apparently there is also the term “tonic” in some places, and in Alabama it’s “Coke” no matter if it’s actually Coke, Sprite or root beer. You say you want a coke, and then tell them what kind.

“Cattywampus” is a term I grew up with. It simply means askew. The article I read credited Arkansas, but my people all came from the Missouri/Kansas area. In Marv’s family, it was the German “kanuppled” or “katiltered.”

In Maine, they say “ayuh” instead of “yes.” I love that term and say it myself at times.

At our church we have Germans and “Scandahoovians” (which is an affectionate term). And the term “uff dah!” is thrown around. I like that one, too, but don’t say it. I prefer the term “scheibenkleister.”

“Bless your heart.” I think most people know by now that this Southern expression can mean many different things… ;-)

“Sweeper” is another term for “vacuum” and I’ve also heard “hoover” used as not a brand name, but a general name for the device. My dad would always say “vacuum sweeper.”

Then there are the many names for that piece of furniture in the living room. You know the one, it sometimes can be unfolded into a bed for guests. Sofa. Couch. Davenport. Lounge. Cat-scratching post.

The article didn’t say anything about “discombobulated” which apparently came from American usage in the first part of the 1800s. I heard this term in my childhood, but not much after that.

Are there some fun words that come from YOUR background? Let me know. And bless your heart for reading this…and I mean it…