15 Unusual English Folklore Words Each Student-Linguist Should Know

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American Redneck

Those who think that having learned English they can understand Americans in all states are mistaken a lot. Bet my hat that these folklore words will become a challenge even for a student of a linguistic faculty, who writes an essay or even a dissertation on the distinguishing features of modern dialects in different US states. However, attempt to do it!

Arky (it is used in Virginia). In general, it is the right way to name a man from Arkansas. And what is more, it is a nickname for the name Archibald. But in the dialect of the Virginians, the adjective “arky” can easily describe a person with outdated views, referring to Noah's Ark. You can, of course, be offended or you can, on the contrary, feel flattered.

Bufflehead (in Pennsylvania). It is quite an official zoological name for a bird similar to drake, whose name is Bucephala albeola or buffle-headed duck. And in a dialect, a fool or a dumbass is called with such a noun. I think they made in vain an analogy with a poor small duck.

Burk (in Georgia). Ladies with a subtle soul organization, better not even read on. In Georgia's dialect, this sweet word is used to denote two simultaneous actions, which they like to show in American films: fart and belch, preferably all at once.

Chinchy (in the Southern States). With such an adjective, one can call a stingy man. At the same time, he/she, of course, can be generous and pay for your ice cream. But try to ask him/her to pay for an entire bill, and he/she will sadly notice: "Sorry, there is no money." Although, at the very moment, banknotes are falling out the pocket.

Boy with USA Flag

Faunch (in the Midwest of the USA). Actually, this verb officially means something like this: "to fight against fate while being extremely impatient and furious." However, among simple people this word has acquired another meaning: there are people and for them there is nothing they like better than talking with the characters on the TV – leading actors and other heroes.

Jabble (in Virginia). This is a mess that reigns in the purse of every self-respecting woman: lipstick, tights, diary, children's pampers, birth control pills, a pack of dietary flakes, etc. – each woman has, probably, its own version of "jabble."

Jasm (in Connecticut). You were not mistaken if you thought that the noun had something from "jazz." Yes, it is a synonym. And in the dialect, it has a very different meaning: a drive thirst and powerful energy. By the way, if you are this very student studying linguistics but having little time to do homework (write essays, course works), you are welcomed to visit our website providing academic paper writing services.

Larruping (in the Midwest, in Oklahoma). This adverb stands for "very, very." Some collectors of American folklore believe that larruping refers only to super-delicious food (well, for example, larruping tasty!). In fact, it is just because of one dictionary of 2010 where the example with food was given for this word. Larruping – this is very cool with respect to any action/thing.

Mug-up (in Alaska). Well, here it is not difficult to guess: mug – a big mug, up – a break. Together: almost a tea break. A kind of Alaska style 5 o'clock tea. Only in contrast to the stiff English with porcelain miniature cups, the inhabitants of Alaska like to relax with a big tea pot.

Sneeter (in Kentucky). This verb means: excuse me, but you are a dupe. That is, they took part in some kind of scam or simply bought into someone else's shameless deception. Therefore, after hearing that someone sneetered, you will know that he/she got into a scrape.

Typical USA Family

Snirt (in the Midwest USA). The word could become the most beloved among the townspeople who have seen enough of the dirty snow along the roads. This is what it means: a mix of dirt and snow. And as a verb, you can use it in another meaning: suddenly laugh/hold your breath while laughing. Well, you know, a moment when you laugh silently and you cannot do it in your voice.

Snoopy (in Pennsylvania, Maryland). This adjective is applied to small children, in which you try to stuff a spoonful of tasty and healthy food, and they begin to act up. This is the name for a squeamish person. In addition, the adjective snoopy refers to people who are overly curious.

Snuggy (in the Middle West, in Iowa). Again, this noun is not in any dictionary. Therefore, we will believe folklorists and also consider that this word refers to a person who grew up among older siblings (who are known to be not very kind to younger children), and then achieved much in life (a typical American dream).

Wapatuli (in Wisconsin). We take any alcoholic ingredients, which are just at hand. Ideally – a bottle of rum, vodka, whiskey, and gin. Fill it all in a large container, shake it well, pour in a couple of cans of fruit cocktail, shake again, and get one of the variants of a wapatuli.

Whoopensocker – you will not find this word in any dictionary (decent, indecent – no difference). Unless you are lucky enough to pick up a dictionary of the American dialect. There, "whoopensocker" is described as a large and strong drink. The word is used in the state of Wisconsin. And besides its main meaning, there is something else: something completely extraordinary, abrupt, classy, and terrific. In general, if you want to express an extreme degree of admiration, then use the noun whoopensocker.

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