Here are 14 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Wisconsin, with a bit of Midwestern charm and humor:
1. Ope!
That classic little exclamation when you accidentally bump into someone or need to squeeze by. It’s almost an apology and a heads-up all in one.
2. Bubbler
Wisconsinites don’t say “water fountain” — it’s a “bubbler.” No matter where you go, this word is a local favorite.
3. Stop-n-Go Lights
Traffic lights in Wisconsin are called “stop-n-go lights” because that’s exactly what they make you do.
4. Up Nort’
Heading “up nort’” means anywhere in the northern part of the state. Location doesn’t matter much—it’s about the vibe of cabin trips and lakes.
5. You Betcha
A warm, friendly way to say “definitely” or “absolutely.” It’s pure Wisconsin affirmation.
6. Just a Schmutz
A tiny bit of dirt or food stuck somewhere, like on your face. Everyone has a bit of “schmutz” now and then.
7. The “Warsher”
Instead of “washer,” Wisconsinites add an extra “r.” It’s as Midwestern as it gets.
8. Friday Fish Fry
A beloved tradition, it’s not just a meal but a social event involving fried fish, rye bread, and a classic brandy Old Fashioned.
9. Cripes
A polite and Midwestern substitute for expressing mild frustration or surprise.
10. Yeah, No
Sounds confusing, but “yeah, no” means “no,” and “no, yeah” means “yes.” It confuses nearly everyone not from Wisconsin.
11. Pop
Forget soda or coke. Wisconsinites call all carbonated drinks “pop.”
12. Oh, Fer Cute
A cheerful way of saying “How adorable!” often heard when spotting a cute kid or animal.
13. Uff Da
Borrowed from Scandinavian roots, it’s used for surprise, exasperation, or sympathy. Stub your toe? “Uff da!”
14. Just Gonna Stop By the Tyme Machine
ATM is called a “Tyme Machine” in Wisconsin, a quirky twist that’s uniquely local.
These sayings add to Wisconsin’s charm and warmth, capturing the friendly spirit and humor that locals love to share.
Sources
(https://wheninyourstate.com/wisconsin/18-wisconsin-slang-terms-only-locals-will-get/)
(https://upnorthnewswi.com/community/wisconsin-sayings/)
(https://fsr920.iheart.com/featured/gregory-jon/content/2017-07-24-20-slang-terms-youll-hear-wisconsinites-say/)
(https://forwardapparel.co/journal/fun/10-sayings-only-wisconsinites-will-understand/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/wisconsin/comments/c1t9vy/what_are_commonbutsubtle_wisconsin_words_and/)
