Pennsylvania isn’t just famous for cheesesteaks, the Liberty Bell, or Amish farmlands—it’s also home to a quirky, one-of-a-kind dialect. Influenced by Dutch, German, Scots-Irish, and blue-collar charm, Pennsylvania has a rich linguistic history that’s both funny and unique. If you ever find yourself in Pittsburgh, Philly, or anywhere in between, here are ten hilarious phrases you’ll hear that will have you laughing and maybe even scratching your head.
1. “Jeet?”
No, it’s not a typo. “Jeet?” is Pennsylvania’s quick and efficient way of asking, “Did you eat?” It’s like a time-saver for lunch breaks, because in Pennsylvania, food waits for no one.
2. “We’re red up the room.”
When someone says they need to “red up” a room, they mean tidying or straightening up. It comes from the old Scots-Irish word “redd,” and unless you’re from Western PA, you probably have no idea what it means. So when they ask you to “red up,” grab the broom!
3. “Throw your clothes in the hamper, not the warsh.”
In Pennsylvania, “warsh” is the local way to say “wash.” Don’t ask why—just smile, toss your laundry in the “warsh machine,” and keep the local charm going. Some people even call it a “clothes press” instead of an iron!
4. “Gimme some wooder.”
In Philly, asking for a glass of water comes out as “wooder.” You’ll also hear “wooder ice,” a popular Philly treat that’s basically Italian ice. Master the pronunciation, or you might be getting some strange looks.
5. “Yinz” and “Youse Guys”
If you’re in Pittsburgh, you’ll hear “yinz” (e.g., “Yinz going downtown?”). Elsewhere in the state, it’s “youse guys.” Both mean “you all,” but don’t mix them up—using the wrong one could give you away as an outsider.
6. “Outen the lights.”
Ready to call it a night? In Pennsylvania, you don’t just turn off the lights, you “outen” them. It’s a word leftover from Pennsylvania’s Germanic roots, and you’ll definitely hear it when it’s time to head to bed.
7. “That car needs fixed.”
In Pennsylvania, people love to skip unnecessary words, so don’t be surprised if you hear “The lawn needs mowed” or “The trash needs taken out.” “That car needs fixed” means it needs to be repaired—simple and to the point.
8. “Dippy eggs”
In Pennsylvania, eggs cooked sunny-side up are called “dippy eggs.” They’re perfect for dipping your toast into, and if you’re at a classic diner, be sure to order them this way for full Pennsylvania authenticity.
9. “Jimmies” or “Sprinkles?”
In Philly, those colorful candy bits on your ice cream are called “jimmies.” Elsewhere, they’re “sprinkles.” If you ask for jimmies, you’ll definitely be showing off your local knowledge!
10. “State Store run”
In Pennsylvania, if you’re looking to buy liquor, you have to make a trip to the “State Store” because of the state’s odd liquor laws. Forget to stock up on Sunday? You’re out of luck, as these stores are closed.
From “wooder” to “yinz,” these fun sayings show just how unique local language can be. Next time you visit Pennsylvania, try out a few of these phrases and watch as the locals smile and nod—you’ll fit right in!
Sources
[1] https://gantnews.com/2025/04/27/your-glossary-of-pennsylvania-sayings-and-slang/
[2] https://keystonenewsroom.com/2025/04/01/your-glossary-of-pennsylvania-sayings-and-slang/
[3] https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/pennsylvania-slang
[4] https://www.wordorigins.org/harmless-drudge/american-dialect-pennsylvania
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Pennsylvania_English
