If you find yourself moving to the great state of Oklahoma, there’s something that you should know to fit in with the locals – Oklahoma slang words and phrases!
Understanding these terms will help you bridge cultural gaps between your new community and yourself!
So don’t be shy – get out there and join some conversations.
Oklahoma Slang Words And Phrases – 15 Slangs!
There is nothing like Oklahoma slang to make outsiders feel out of the loop!
From okie-dokies to doggone it, Oklahoma slang words and phrases are unique, colorful, and undeniably fun.
Many of these words started with people who lived in the western part of Oklahoma.
However, they spread to other parts of Oklahoma quickly.
Regional dialect can play a huge part in identity, and Oklahomans have proudly claimed these sly expressions.
1. Lawdy Mercy – Expression Of Surprise Or Amazement:
Lawdy Mercy is an expression of surprise or amazement that originated in Oklahoma and has become part of the Oklahoma slang vernacular.
This informal phrase is said to have come from the merging of Lord have Mercy and Lawd have mercy.
It is used as an exclamation point to express awe or astonishment at something incredible, funny, whimsical, or strange.
It’s just one of the many Oklahoma slang words and phrases that add flavor to formal and informal conversations.
2. Boomer Sooner:
This phrase is deeply ingrained in Oklahoma’s identity, particularly associated with the University of Oklahoma’s sports teams.
It serves as a rallying cry, expressing pride and support for the university’s athletic endeavors.
“Boomer” and “Sooner” refer to the two iconic mascots of the university, the Sooner Schooner and the Boomer Schooner.
3. You Betcha! – Absolutely, Yeah Sure:
“You Betcha!” is a popular Oklahoma slang phrase.
It typically expresses an affirmative response, similar to “Absolutely!” or “Yeah, Sure!.
This phrase likely finds its roots in the Midwest of Oklahoma, as many of Oklahomans’ favorite sayings have become commonplace throughout the state.
If someone requests your approval and you want to agree more conversationally, convey that sentiment with an enthusiastic “You Betcha!”
They will be aware of what you can offer them and the exact degree to which you can fulfill their needs.
4. Oklahoma Uff Da – Expression Of Surprise /Disbelief:
You’ve probably heard the classic Oklahoma slang term Uff Da if you’re from Oklahoma.
This uniquely Oklahoman phrase expresses surprise or disbelief and is often said when something unexpected happens.
Who would have imagined that this phrase originated in Norwegian culture?
Unbelievably, it is used as an expression of relief after completing a challenging task – making an intriguing comparison with Oklahoma slang.
This is just one of the many cool Oklahoma slang words and phrases you will hear around the state, guaranteed to make any conversation more fun!
5. Fixin’ To:
Fixin’ to” is a quintessential Oklahoma slang phrase deeply embedded in the state’s vernacular.
It colloquially expresses one’s intention or imminent action, reflecting the region’s laid-back and friendly demeanor.
In Oklahoma, it’s a versatile phrase woven into everyday conversation, seamlessly integrating into casual and formal speech.
Whether someone is fixin’ to go out for dinner, fixin’ to tackle a project, or simply fixin’ to relax, the phrase embodies a sense of anticipation and readiness.
6. Ten-Four – Means OK/ Understood:
As part of vocabulary specific to Oklahoma, the phrase “Ten-Four” means that someone has received and understood a message.
The term originated from CB radio operators and was popularized in the 1950s.
It is often compared to other common forms of Oklahoma slang words and phrases, such as ‘Ya’ll’, ‘Ain’t’, and ‘Howdee’.
Although ten-four appears unique to Oklahoma, similar terms are used worldwide.
These are “roger,” “over,” and “copy that.”
In any case, its meaning remains loud and clear – ok, understood, message received.
7. I’m Fixin’ To Go – This Means “I’m About To Leave”:
An interesting Oklahoma slang phrase is “I’m fixin’ to go, “ meaning “I’m about to leave”.
This phrase is often used among friends in Oklahoma and can be translated into various other meanings.
For example, when someone says they are “fixin’ to go,” it could mean that they are preparing for an adventure, such as getting ready for a road trip or just heading off to the store.
Regardless, it conveys that the speaker is about to embark on something new.
So, next time you hear someone talking Oklahoma slang, don’t miss this one!
8. Okie Dokie – Expression Of Agreement:
“Okie Dokie” expresses agreement or understanding rooted in Oklahoma slang words and phrases.
Generally, it’s used to affirm something that’s been said or accepted, such as when someone proposes, and the response is “Okie Dokie.”
Variations of the phrase include okidoki, okdoke, okedy-dokey, okedoke, okily-dokily, okieday, and okity-dokity.
We all use it informally from Texas to Colorado when talking with friends and family.
However, this phrase has historically held a special significance in Oklahoma.
9. Dad-Gummit – Expression Of Mild Annoyance Or Frustration:
“Dad-gummit” is an expression of mild annoyance or frustration commonly used in the South, especially in Oklahoma.
It originated from Oklahoma slang words and phrases that were incorporated into the English language.
This idiom is used to express feelings of discontentment and can occasionally be used as a mild exclamation or oath.
The phrase is milder than similar expressions such as “darn it!”
In modern usage, dad-gummit still serves as a great outlet for venting our common frustrations without offending anyone around us.
10 That Dog’ll Hunt – Means The Plan Is A Good One, And It Will Work Out Well:
The phrase “That Dog’ll Hunt” is an idiom that originated in Oklahoma.
Moreover, it essentially means “that plan will work out well.”
It’s like giving someone a thumbs-up to their suggestion or idea – it gives off a positive vibe.
Many people in the region use the Oklahoma slang words and phrases and have made their way into popular culture as many find them amusing.
With the phrase “That Dog’ll Hunt,” you can be sure that the plan is good and will work out ok in the end.
11. Hot Diggity Dog – Expression Of Surprise Or Amazement:
The expression “hot diggity dog” is a classic Oklahoma slang phrase often used to express surprise or amazement.
It suggests that something good has happened and merits an enthusiastic response—a hot-off-the-presses discovery that inspires a joyous outburst worthy of the juvenile chant.
Its cheerful cadence, using alliteration, is unmistakable and yields expressions ranging from disbelief to delight.
Generally speaking, roping in this Oklahoma red dirt tradition can lighten the mood in conversation or boost morale in difficult circumstances.
12. Bamas – People From Alabama Are Called Bamas:
Bamas is the term used to refer to people from Alabama, especially in its western region.
The state’s neighbors commonly use this Oklahoma slang word, which can be considered an endearing nickname.
It may also have developed from Alabamans who heard a variation of the phrase used by other nearby states as part of their slang words and phrases.
Either way, Bamas are proud of the name attached to them throughout the years – even though its origin might have been uncertain!
13. Peach Pickin’ Hot – This Phrase Means “Really Hot”:
Peach Pickin’ Hot is a phrase that originated from Oklahoma slang words and phrases.
It means being excessively hot – be it the weather or one’s anger.
It may have existed as far back as the 1800s but was popularized in the 1980s and 1990s.
Since then, ‘Peach Pickin’ Hot’ has been used by many Oklahomans when referring to anything that goes beyond the boiling point of hot.
It is often an expression of one’s extreme feeling of heat or anger.
However, it can also be used sarcastically to describe such emotions.
14. Oklahoma Twister – Oklahoma Slang For A Tornado:
Oklahoma is well-known for its frequent Tornadoes.
So, it’s unsurprising that Oklahomans have adopted their unique slang word to describe them — Oklahoma Twister.
This phrase is often used to warn or define a tornado, with Oklahomans quickly recognizing the reference.
Oklahoma Twister is far from the only Oklahoma slang used in everyday conversation around here.
Yet, it’s certainly one of the most well-known terms.
Anyone who has lived in or visited Oklahoma will immediately recognize this phrase!
15. Keep Your Pecker Up – Oklahoma Slang For “Keep Your Chin Up”:
Even if things are not going well, Oklahomans tend to turn to their slang language when trying to cheer someone up.
One commonly used phrase is “keep your pecker up,” the Oklahoma version of saying “keep your chin up.”
This phrase is usually said to give someone a small boost of encouragement and motivate them to keep pushing forward in the face of difficulty.
Understanding Oklahoma slang words and phrases like this will give you insight into local culture and conversation.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Oklahoma has plenty of distinct words and phrases.
Each has a unique history and provides insight into the state’s culture and heritage.
Oklahoma has a unique vocabulary, and knowing these terms will allow you to connect with the people more intimately, whether visiting or living in Oklahoma.
Mastering these phrases will elevate your experience and enrich your travels!
Many of these Oklahoma slang words and phrases have spread beyond the boundaries of Oklahoma.
So, even if you venture outside the state, you may recognize them from time to time!
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