philadelphia words

Decoding the Philly Lexicon: A Guide to Philadelphia Words

Philadelphia, often called Philly, boasts a unique culture, and that uniqueness extends to its own vocabulary. Certain words and phrases are distinctly Philadelphian, baffling outsiders and immediately identifying locals. From food orders to neighborhood nicknames, knowing these terms is key to navigating the City of Brotherly Love.

Jawn: The Ultimate Philadelphia Placeholder

Perhaps the most iconic Philadelphia word, “jawn” is a versatile noun that can refer to almost anything. Need a specific object but can’t remember the name? It’s a jawn. Talking about a place? It’s a jawn. Describing an event? You guessed it, a jawn. Its meaning is entirely dependent on context and intonation. “Pass me that jawn,” could mean anything from a remote control to a cheesesteak, depending on the situation. Learn more about Philadelphia English on Wikipedia.

Hoagie: More Than Just a Sandwich

While other parts of the country might call it a submarine sandwich or a grinder, in Philadelphia, it’s a “hoagie.” This sandwich, typically consisting of Italian bread filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, is a local staple. Variations abound, from the classic Italian hoagie to specialized creations found at neighborhood delis.

Wooder Ice: Icy Refreshment, Philly Style

“Water ice” is a frozen dessert similar to Italian ice. However, Philadelphians pronounce “water” as “wooder,” hence the name “wooder ice.” This refreshing treat is particularly popular during the hot summer months and is a must-try for any visitor.

The Linc: Home of the Eagles

“The Linc” is the shortened nickname for Lincoln Financial Field, where the Philadelphia Eagles play. Saying “Let’s go to the Linc!” immediately identifies you as a fan of the Eagles.

Yo: A Common Greeting and Interjection

While “yo” is used in other regions, it seems particularly prevalent in Philadelphia. It can serve as a greeting (“Yo, what’s up?”), an exclamation (“Yo, that was awesome!”), or even a way to get someone’s attention (“Yo, can you help me?”). Its ubiquity makes it a quintessential part of the Philly dialect.

FAQs about Philadelphia Words

What does “drawls” mean in Philadelphia?

“Drawls” refers to drawers, as in clothing drawers. This pronunciation is a characteristic of the Philadelphia accent.

Is “jawn” used outside of Philadelphia?

While “jawn” originated in Philadelphia, its usage has spread somewhat online and in other areas influenced by Philly culture, but it is most heavily used in Philadelphia.

How do you pronounce “Schuylkill” in Philadelphia?

Locals pronounce Schuylkill as “Skookil.” Don’t even try to pronounce it the way it looks!

What’s the difference between water ice and Italian ice?

Essentially nothing. Water ice is Philadelphia’s regional name for what is generally known as Italian ice. The recipes and textures can vary slightly by vendor, but they are largely the same thing.

What is the Philadelphia accent known for?

The Philadelphia accent is characterized by vowel shifts, such as the “aw” sound in words like “water” becoming “oo,” as well as dropping “t” sounds and other unique pronunciations.

Summary

Understanding Philadelphia’s unique vocabulary is essential for immersing yourself in the local culture. From the all-encompassing “jawn” to the refreshing “wooder ice,” these words offer a glimpse into the city’s distinct identity. So, next time you’re in Philly, remember these terms and impress the locals with your newfound knowledge of the Philly lexicon.