Here are 12 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Missouri, each reflecting the state’s unique local flavor and humor:
1. “Ope!”
A classic Missouri exclamation used when bumping into someone or as a quick reaction to a minor surprise.
2. “Fixin’ To”
Means getting ready to do something soon, as in “I’m fixin’ to go to the store.”
3. “Put Out”
Used to mean being angry or annoyed, e.g., “He was really put out about that.”
4. “Sweeping the Carpets”
Instead of vacuuming, locals say they’re “sweeping the carpets,” a charming twist on house chores.
5. “T-Ravs”
Short for toasted ravioli, a famous St. Louis snack that locals proudly call “t-ravs.”
6. “Just Take Farty-Four”
A humorous way St. Louisans refer to Interstate 44 with a heavy local accent.
7. “Boogans”
A playful term sometimes used to describe kids or younger folks.
8. “A-Hain’t No Picnic”
Means something is not easy or fun, e.g., “Raisin’ kids ain’t no picnic.”
9. “Stomp a Mudhole”
A colorful phrase meaning to physically confront or beat someone up.
10. “Cattywampus”
Refers to something askew, crooked, or out of order.
11. “Youins”
A plural form of “you,” used locally, especially in rural areas.
12. “Crick”
Missouri pronunciation for “creek,” as in “gonna go swimmin’ in the crick.”
These sayings capture Missouri’s friendly, quirky, and sometimes surprising local vernacular, offering a glimpse into the everyday humor and culture unique to the Show-Me State.
Sources
(https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/missouri-slang)
(https://wheninyourstate.com/missouri/18-missouri-slang-terms-only-locals-will-get/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/missouri/comments/1e44ttp/missouri_jargon/)
(https://www.rootsweb.com/~mostone/fun/slang.htm)
(https://www.hometeammo.com/blog/most-common-missouri-slang)
