Bogalusa Tribune's Weekly Southern Vocabulary List

Welcome to our weekly vocabulary feature! Each week, we’ll bring you a list of Southern words and phrases often heard around Louisiana. Whether you’ve grown up with these sayings or are new to the area, this list will help you navigate the rich and colorful language that’s as much a part of our culture as gumbo and Mardi Gras.

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1. Lagniappe (lan-yap)  

Definition: A little something extra, a bonus gift.  

Context: "When you order beignets at that café, they always throw in an extra one as lagniappe!"  

This word has deep Louisiana roots, originating from Creole and Spanish influences. It’s a term locals use to describe that pleasant, unexpected surprise.

2. Fixin’ to  

Definition: About to do something; getting ready to.  

Context: "I’m fixin’ to head to the store if you need anything."  

Whether it’s heading to the store or starting dinner, “fixin’ to” is a staple phrase across the South, signaling intention or preparation.

3. Cher (sha)  

Definition: A term of endearment, meaning “dear” or “sweetheart.”  

Context: "How are you doin’, cher? Haven’t seen you in a while!"  

Commonly used in Cajun and Creole dialects, you’ll hear “cher” peppered into conversations, especially when greeting friends and family.

4. Pass a good time  

Definition: To have fun or enjoy yourself.  

Context: "We sure did pass a good time at the festival last weekend!"  

This phrase is a favorite among Louisianians, especially when reflecting on social gatherings like Mardi Gras parades or crawfish boils.

5. Making groceries  

Definition: Going grocery shopping.  

Context: "I’m fixin’ to go make groceries—need anything from the store?"  

A uniquely Louisiana phrase, “making groceries” stems from the French faire des courses, which translates to doing the shopping.

6. Boudin (boo-dan)  

Definition: A type of sausage stuffed with rice, meat (usually pork), and seasonings.  

Context: "Stop by that gas station off the highway—they’ve got the best boudin around."  

Boudin is a beloved Cajun dish, often found in local markets, restaurants, and even gas stations.

7. Neutral ground  

Definition: The grassy or paved median that divides a road.  

Context: "We’ll meet on the neutral ground to watch the parade."  

In most places, this is called a median, but in New Orleans and surrounding areas, it’s the neutral ground—dating back to early 19th-century settlements.

8. Catahoula (cat-uh-HOO-luh)  

Definition: The Louisiana state dog, known for its spotted coat and hunting skills.  

Context: "I just got me a Catahoula pup—they’re great for hunting and guarding the house."  

Named after Catahoula Parish, these dogs are a Louisiana treasure, with strong ties to the state’s hunting traditions.

9. Y’all  

Definition: You all; plural form of “you.”  

Context: "Y’all coming to the barbecue this weekend?"  

A Southern classic, “y’all” is the go-to plural pronoun used in nearly every conversation, making it an essential part of local speech.

10. Tasso (TAH-soh)  

Definition: A highly seasoned, smoked pork used to flavor dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.  

Context: "I added some tasso to the gumbo—it gives it a real kick!"  

Tasso is a Cajun staple, adding a smoky, spicy element to many of Louisiana’s most famous dishes.

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That’s it for this week’s list! We hope you enjoyed learning more about the words that make Southern Louisiana so unique. Tune in next week for more!