Colorado slang words and phrases express the region’s culture and people.
Coloradoans are known for their unique way of speaking and often use terms the rest of the country won’t understand.
Colorado is home to some of the quirkiest terminology in the United States.
Here are some Colorado slang words and phrases you should know if you’re planning to visit the Centennial State:
Colorado Slang Words And Phrases
Colorado slang can be traced back to Colorado’s original inhabitants and settlers.
Colorado has a long and varied history, which influences the language that is used today.
For example, during the 19th century, Colorado was part of Mexico, so Spanish was spoken there.
In 1861, Colorado became part of the United States following the Mexican-American War, and English became the primary language.
During this time, Europeans are also influenced language by introducing new dialects or words from other languages.
Colorado’s diverse population has contributed to its unique culture, giving Colorado its unique flavor.
Here are some Colorado slang words and phrases you should know:
24 Famous Colorado Slang Words And Phrases
Colorado natives use these words to make Colorado stand out. Colorado slang is a way of speaking that is unique and distinct from the rest of the US.
Colorado has its vocabulary, and it is important to learn the terms that make Colorado unique.
Colorado is full of lingo and slang words that cannot be very clear to newcomers.
Coloradoans have their way of saying things, using phrases like “boulderized” and “huckleberry.”
Here are some Colorado slang words and phrases you should know:
1. Dude:
Coloradoans love saying “dude”.
Coloradoans use this word to refer to friends, family, strangers, or even themselves in casual conversations.
People come from around the world to visit Colorado, and many quickly pick up on the “dude” habit while there.
It is an important part of conversing in the local culture.
For example, Coloradoans might say, “What’s up, dude?”
The term “dude” is especially popular among Colorado natives. It’s a term of endearment that Coloradoans use with pride.
2. Frenchie:
Coloradoans refer to Colorado residents from France as “Frenchie” or “Frenchies”.
That is because Colorado has many Colorado residents who were born in France or have French ancestry.
Coloradoans also sometimes refer to Colorado residents who are of French descent as “Frenchie”.
The term can be used in a friendly and casual way, or it can be used endearingly.
3. Rocky Mountain High:
Coloradoans use this phrase to refer to the feeling of enjoying Colorado’s beautiful landscapes.
That phrase is also sometimes used to refer to Colorado’s many recreational activities.
These include skiing, hiking, and camping.
Coloradoans are proud of the state’s natural beauty and often use this phrase to express their love for Colorado.
It also serves as a reminder to Coloradoans of the things they can enjoy in their state.
4. Fourteener:
Colorado has 54 mountains that are 14,000 feet or higher in elevation.
Coloradoans refer to these mountains as “fourteeners.”
They often attempt to climb them for the challenge and bragging rights.
Coloradoans also often use the word “fourteener” to refer to Colorado natives or Coloradoans.
For example, Coloradoans might say, “All the fourteeners know how to ski.”
5. Front Range:
The Front Range is a term used by Coloradoans to refer to the area along the eastern side of Colorado, including Denver and Colorado Springs.
Coloradoans often talk about driving up I-25 (which goes through the Front Range) or say they’re from the “Front Range.”
Coloradoans also use the word “Frontier” to refer to someone who lives on the Front Range.
6. Ski Or Ski Bum:
Skiing is a major part of Colorado culture, and Coloradoans often refer affectionately to skiers as “ski bums.”
Coloradoans also use the word “skiing” to refer to going out and having a good time, not just hitting the slopes.
For example, Coloradoans might say, “let’s go skiing tonight,” to mean that they’re going out for a night on the town.
7. Mountain Time – Colorado Slang Words And Phrases:
Coloradoans often use the term “Mountain Time” to refer to Colorado’s time zone.
It is usually one hour behind the rest of the United States.
Coloradoans use this phrase as a way to express the laid-back attitude of Colorado’s residents.
Also, their tendency to take life at a slower pace.
For example, Coloradoans might joke that they’re running on “Mountain Time.”
It is when they show up late to an event or appointment.
8. Ceep:
This Colorado slang word is used to refer to Colorado residents who have lived in Colorado for a long time.
It can also be used as an adjective to describe someone who understands Colorado culture better than someone new to Colorado.
For example, you might say, “He’s a ceep Coloradoan.”
The word “ceep” is derived from the Spanish word for “old.”
Also, it expresses a feeling of home, familiarity, and belonging.
It’s an endearing term that celebrates Colorado’s long history and shows appreciation for those who have lived here for generations.
9. Snowstang:
This Colorado slang term is used to refer to the Colorado State Patrol officers who patrol Colorado’s highways during winter storms.
Coloradoans often joke that they don’t want to get pulled over by a snowstang for driving too fast in a Colorado snowstorm.
For example, someone might say, “Oh no, here comes a snowstang! Better slow down!”
10. Breck:
This Colorado slang term is used to refer to Breckenridge, Colorado.
In addition, colorado often uses the term when referring to the winter ski resort town in Summit County.
For example, someone might say, “We’re heading up to Breck this weekend for some skiing.” heading up to Breck.
The term can also refer to the skiing and snowboarding activities popular in Breckenridge.
11. Frito Pie:
This Colorado slang term is used to describe a popular Colorado dish consisting of Fritos corn chips, chili, Cheese, and other toppings.
Coloradoans love to eat Frito Pie as an appetizer or side dish, but it can also be a meal.
Coloradoans often use the term when referring to this dish.
For example, “Let’s get some Frito Pie before we head out.”
The term also generally describes Fritos products, including chips, dips, and snacks.
12. Cheese And Crackers:
This Colorado slang term is a friendly way of greeting someone.
It also expresses excitement or enthusiasm about something.
Such as an upcoming event. Coloradoans might say, “Cheese and crackers!
That concert is going to be awesome!”
The phrase also expresses disbelief, as in, “Cheese and crackers, I can’t believe I forgot my wallet!”
13. Cat Hole:
This Colorado slang term refers to a snowboarder’s large turn or jump.
Coloradoans often use the phrase “That was a big cat hole!” when referring to a particularly impressive trick.
For example, a Coloradoan might say, “I just saw that kid land an insane cat hole in the park!”
The term is also used to describe a skier’s large turn.
14. Stoked:
This Colorado slang term is an expression of enthusiasm or excitement about something.
Coloradoans often use the phrase “stoked.”
It is when discussing upcoming events, activities, or anything else they’re looking forward to.
For example, someone might say, “I’m so stoked about this weekend’s music festival!”
The term can also express approval or admiration of someone else’s accomplishments.
15. Breck:
Coloradoans often use the term “break” when referring to Breckenridge, Colorado.
The ski town is well known throughout Colorado and beyond for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding conditions.
For example, someone might say, “Let’s hit the slopes in Breck this weekend!”
The term can also refer to the entire county in Colorado where Breckenridge is located.
16. Ditch Day:
This Colorado slang phrase has multiple meanings.
It can refer to ditching school or work for the day for a spontaneous adventure, usually in Colorado’s great outdoors.
For example, someone might say, “Let’s ditch school/work and hike in the mountains!”
It can also describe Colorado’s 300+ miles of man-made ditches built by Colorado pioneers for farming and irrigation purposes.
17. Flatlander:
This Colorado slang term is used to describe outsiders who are unfamiliar with Colorado’s terrain or culture.
Colorado is known for its rugged and steep terrain, so a flatlander would be someone who isn’t used to this type of environment.
The term can also reference anyone from out-of-state or outside Colorado’s borders.
The term is usually used humorously.
18. Goober:
This Colorado slang word describes someone awkward, goofy, or clumsy.
It can also be used as an affectionate term among friends and family.
Coloradoans use this term with love and endearment!
For example, if you’re clumsy and drop something, someone might call you a “goober.”
The term can also refer to someone who’s being slow or clueless.
19. Breckenridge Bagger:
This Colorado slang term refers to a skier or snowboarder who has completed all the ski runs in Breckenridge Ski Area.
This is an impressive feat, and Coloradoans love cheering on anyone who can achieve this goal.
If you complete the runs, be prepared for some Coloradoans to call you a “Breckenridge Bagger.”
20. Cowboy Up:
This Colorado slang phrase encourages toughing it out during difficult times–it means don’t give up!
Coloradoans take pride in their resilience, and this phrase is often used to cheer on Coloradoans who are facing hard times.
For example, someone might say, “Cowboy up and get through this!” As a result, the phrase has become a Colorado state motto of sorts.
21. Giddy Up:
This Colorado slang phrase is related to Cowboy up, as it’s used to encourage someone to get going on whatever task they’re tackling.
Coloradoans love getting outdoors and exploring all the great states.
So, this phrase is often heard when coaxing someone to get outside and adventure.
For example, someone might say, “Let’s giddy up and get to the trailhead!”
22. To Colorado:
This Colorado slang phrase is used to express enthusiasm or excitement about being in Colorado.
Coloradoans love their state and take pride in its scenery, outdoor recreation opportunities, and laid-back attitude.
For example, when Coloradoans hear about a great deal of going skiing or camping, they may say, “Let’s Colorado it up!”
The term is a play on the phrase “let’s do it up,” but Coloradoans take great pride in saying they’re “Co-lorading it.”
23. Gaper:
Coloradoans use the term gaper to describe someone unaccustomed to Colorado’s environment and roads.
Colorado mountain roads are often narrow and winding.
So, Coloradoans may refer to inexperienced drivers as gapers because they drive slowly, creating traffic jams.
Coloradoans may say, “That gaper is really slowing down traffic!”
24. Skijoring:
Coloradoans use the term skijoring to describe a unique wintertime activity.
Skijoring involves the person being pulled by a horse while skiing.
Coloradoans often participate in this activity at ski resorts like Aspen, Breckenridge, and Vail, Colorado.
Coloradoans may say, “Let’s go skijoring this weekend!”
The term has also been used to describe activities such as biking or running while being pulled by a horse.
Final Thoughts:
Colorado has its own unique culture and slang words that Coloradoans use to express themselves.
Whether you’re a Colorado native or just visiting the state, learning these Colorado slang words and phrases will make your experience even more enjoyable.
Colorado natives and visitors alike can use these Colorado slang words and phrases to get a better feel for the local culture.
So don’t forget to “Giddyup” and experience Colorado like never before with its unique Colorado Slang Words And Phrases!
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