Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is known for many things, including its unique slang. Whether you’re a native or just visiting, it’s always helpful to have a few Pittsburgh slang words in your arsenal. Here are some of the most common Pittsburgh slang words you might hear around town:
- Yinz – This is a Pittsburgh-specific way of saying “you all” or “you guys”. It’s often used as a plural form of “you” and can be heard in phrases like “Are yinz going to the game tonight?”
- Jagoff – This is a derogatory term used to describe someone who is being annoying or difficult. It’s similar to calling someone a “jerk” or a “tool”.
- Redd up – This means to clean up or tidy up. It’s often used when referring to cleaning up a room or space, like “I need to redd up my bedroom before my mom gets home.”
- Nebby – This is a Pittsburgh-specific term that means nosy or intrusive. It’s often used when someone is asking too many personal questions or getting too involved in someone else’s business.
- N’at – This is a shortened version of “and all that” and is often used at the end of a sentence to imply that there are other things that could be included, like “We’re going to the Pirates game tonight, n’at.”
- Gum bands – This is a Pittsburgh-specific term for rubber bands. It’s not clear why they’re called “gum bands” in Pittsburgh, but it’s a term you’ll hear often.
- Jumbo – This is a Pittsburgh-specific term for bologna. It’s often used in phrases like “I’m making a jumbo sandwich for lunch today.”
- Pop – This is a Pittsburgh-specific way of referring to soda or soft drinks. It’s not uncommon to hear someone ask for a “pop” instead of a “soda” or a “coke”.
- Stillers – This is a Pittsburgh-specific way of referring to the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. It’s often used by fans and is a term of endearment for the team.
- Worsh – This means to wash, and is often used in the context of doing laundry or cleaning up. It’s not uncommon to hear someone say “I need to worsh these dishes before I go to bed.”
In conclusion, Pittsburgh slang words are a unique and important part of the city’s culture. From “yinz” to “worsh”, these terms are used every day by Pittsburghers and can be a fun way to connect with the local community. So next time you’re in the Steel City, make sure to brush up on your Pittsburgh slang!
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