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From the cobblestone streets of Boston to the picturesque landscapes of Cape Cod, Massachusetts has a unique charm—and so does its slang! Whether you’re hanging out at a Red Sox game or enjoying a seafood feast, Massachusetts locals have their own way of talking that’s as distinct as the state’s rich history. If you’ve ever been curious about how the Bay Staters communicate, here are 17 slang terms that’ll make you sound like a true local.
Wicked
This isn’t just for witches; in Massachusetts, it’s used to mean something is really great or extreme. “That game was wicked awesome!”
Pahk the cah
A Boston classic—this phrase refers to parking the car. “I’m going to pahk the cah in the garage.”
Bubbler
The word for a drinking fountain in Massachusetts (though you’ll find it used all over New England). “I’m thirsty—where’s the nearest bubbler?”
Dunkin’
If you’re in Massachusetts, you’re not just going for coffee, you’re going to Dunkin’ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts). “Let’s grab some coffee at Dunkin’.”
Southie
Refers to South Boston, an iconic neighborhood with a rich Irish heritage. “I’m from Southie, so I know good seafood when I see it.”
The Cape
A shorthand for Cape Cod, one of the most beautiful and beloved areas in Massachusetts. “We’re heading to The Cape for the weekend to unwind.”
Jimmies
What the rest of the world calls sprinkles, in Massachusetts they’re jimmies. “I’ll have a chocolate cone with jimmies, please!”
The T
Refers to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which is Boston’s public transit system. “I’m hopping on the T to get to the Sox game.”
Chowdah
The famous New England clam chowder, often pronounced with a Boston accent. “Nothing beats a bowl of clam chowdah on a cold day.”
Rotary
What people in Massachusetts call a traffic circle. “Take the third exit out of the rotary to get to the park.”
Packie
A term for a liquor store, derived from “package store.” “Let’s stop by the packie to grab a six-pack for the game.”
Frappe
What many people outside of Massachusetts might call a milkshake. “I’ll have a vanilla frappe with whipped cream.”
Bastahd
A Bostonian way of pronouncing “bastard,” often used in a playful or teasing manner. “You’re a wicked bastahd for making me laugh so hard!”
Shore
Refers to the coast, often used in the context of heading to the beach. “We’re going down the shore this weekend for a little R&R.”
Haverhill
A town in Massachusetts that also serves as an example of how locals may drop consonants in their speech. “I’m from Haverhill—about 45 minutes north of Boston.”
Yankee Swap
A fun holiday gift exchange tradition (aka White Elephant). “We’re doing a Yankee Swap at the office Christmas party this year.”
Berkshires
Refers to the beautiful mountain region in Western Massachusetts, known for its outdoor activities and arts scene. “We’re hiking in the Berkshires this weekend—can’t wait!”
Now you’re ready to talk like a true Massachusetts local! Whether you’re catching a Red Sox game at Fenway, heading to Cape Cod, or just chatting with the neighbors, these slang terms will help you fit in like you’ve been living in the Bay State your whole life. Just remember, it’s all about being “wicked” cool, grabbing a coffee at Dunkin’, and taking a trip to The Cape!
The post These 17 Slang Terms Only Make Sense If You Live in Massachusetts appeared first on When In Your State.