19 Unique Sayings That Only Make Sense in Idaho

Idaho isn’t just famous for potatoes—it’s got a language all its own. If you’ve ever spent time in the Gem State, you’ll know that locals have a way with words that leaves outsiders scratching their heads. From the mountains to the potatoes fields, here are 19 sayings you’ll only hear in Idaho!

“You betcha!”

A classic Idaho response. It means “of course,” “absolutely,” or “heck yeah!” Just nod and smile if someone offers you more potatoes.

“Goin’ up the hill”

When someone says they’re “going up the hill,” they’re probably headed to one of Idaho’s ski resorts. It’s shorthand for an epic adventure—just hope you’re not stuck in traffic.

“Tater”

A potato. And in Idaho, it’s not just a side dish—it’s practically a lifestyle. “Pass me those taters, will ya?”

“Cold as a witch’s tit”

When it’s really cold, this saying gets tossed around like a snowball. It’s so cold, you’ll start thinking twice about leaving the house.

“Latter-day Saints”

While technically referring to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Idaho it’s also just a way of referring to that overly friendly neighbor who probably just baked you cookies.

“Potato hole”

A place where you stash things that are, well, potato-related. Whether it’s a storage spot for spuds or where you hide the good snacks, it’s your secret stash!

“Crick”

A creek. In Idaho, “crick” is the only acceptable way to pronounce this word. If you’re trying to fit in, forget the “ee” sound and go with the “i” like in “stick.”

“You’re all hat and no cattle”

This one is for the wannabe cowboys who talk big but don’t back it up. It’s a friendly jab at those trying to look the part without the skills to show for it.

“Mormon corn”

That extra sweet corn you can find at local farmers’ markets—often grown by the local Latter-day Saints. It’s sweet, and it’ll make you wonder why your grocery store corn tastes like cardboard.

“On the dry side”

This refers to the part of Idaho that doesn’t get as much rain. And if you’re used to lush greenery, you might be shocked to find just how much “dry” there is.

“Snowed in”

When you’re so deep in snow that you can’t get out of the house for days. You can’t even see the driveway anymore.

“Who’s your homesteader?”

Idaho’s western roots run deep, so don’t be surprised when someone asks you who your homesteader was. It’s a fun way of asking where your family’s roots lie.

“Clear as mud”

When something is totally confusing or unclear, you might hear this saying. It’s kind of like the opposite of clarity.

“Let’s take the back roads”

It’s not just about avoiding traffic—it’s about getting away from it all, off the grid, and into the real Idaho wilderness.

“Burning daylight”

You’ve got to get going before the day slips away. Whether you’re heading out to fish or hunt, “burning daylight” means there’s no time to waste!

“As far as the eye can see”

When you get to one of Idaho’s expansive fields or mountains, and you swear you could see forever. The term usually follows a description like, “That farm stretches as far as the eye can see!”

“Picking spuds”

This is the Idaho version of “potato farming.” If you’re picking spuds, you’re in for some real Idaho work.

“Holler at me”

If someone says this, it means give them a call or reach out. It’s the friendly Idaho way of asking to stay in touch.

“Cowboy up”

It’s Idaho’s way of saying, “Get over it” or “Deal with it.” Whether it’s a hard day at work or life throwing curveballs, you just “cowboy up” and get it done.

From potato-based slang to mountain man wisdom, Idaho’s sayings tell you everything you need to know about life in this rugged, beautiful state. It’s a place where everything is down-to-earth and a little tongue-in-cheek, and the locals wouldn’t have it any other way. So, next time you’re in Idaho, throw out a few of these phrases and see if you can fool anyone into thinking you were born and raised there!

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