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The United States may be one country, but it’s a big place with many cultures and dialects that can influence how we talk about basic things. From what you call a sugary carbonated drink to that long sandwich with various toppings, our language diverges in many delightful ways. Here’s a fun list of 15 everyday items that reveal the rich tapestry of American English:
Soda, Pop, or Coke
The never-ending debate on what to call a sweet, carbonated beverage spans nationwide. Some argue for “soda,” especially in the East; others staunchly defend “pop” in the Midwest and Northwest. Strangely, in the South, folks call all sodas “Coke,” regardless of the flavor.
Sneakers, Tennis Shoes, or Gym Shoes
These comfortable and versatile shoes have many names depending on your location. Although the term “tennis shoes” is commonly used by most Americans, people in New England and Florida often call athletic shoes “sneakers.” Meanwhile, in Chicago and Cincinnati, they are sometimes called “gym shoes.”
Water Fountain, Drinking Fountain, or Bubbler
When it comes to quenching our thirst, we seem to have different names for this common fixture. “Water fountain” is the most widely used across Southern, Midwestern, and Northeastern states, but in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and parts of Wisconsin, people call it a “bubbler.” In Western states, you’re more likely to hear someone say “drinking fountain.”
Sub, Hero, Hoagie, or Grinder
This long sandwich, bursting with various meats, cheeses, and vegetables, is a beloved staple across numerous regions. However, its nomenclature varies by location—”Sub” being the most universally recognized term for this type of cold sandwich. Whether you find yourself in the North, South, East Coast, West Coast, or Midwest, you’re likely familiar with this term. In New York City, it’s known as a “hero;” in Philadelphia, a “hoagie;” and in New England, a “grinder.”
Firefly or Lightning Bug
These bioluminescent insects are a beautiful sight to behold on summer evenings. Still, their name varies depending on where you live. People in the South and Midwest generally refer to them as “lightning bugs,” while those in the Western states use “firefly.”
Lollipop or Sucker
No matter what you call it, these sweet treats are a favorite among children and adults. In the South and Midwest, they’re commonly referred to as “suckers,” but in the Northeast, they’re known as “lollipops.”
Milkshake or Frappe
This delicious frozen treat made with ice cream and milk has different names depending on where you are in the U.S. In New England, it’s known as a “frappe,” while in most other regions, it’s called a “milkshake.” The term “milkshake” might still be used in New England, but it explicitly denotes chocolate milk rather than the blended ice cream drink.
Roundabout, Traffic Circle, or Rotary
These circular intersections are becoming increasingly common nationwide, but their names vary. In the Northeast, you’re likely to hear “rotary.” In the East and Midwest, it’s called a “traffic circle.” In the West and South, they are commonly called “roundabouts.”
Sprinkles or Jimmies
These tiny, sugary toppings are a must-have for any ice cream sundae or cupcake. In New England, they’re known as “jimmies,” while in most other regions, they’re called “sprinkles.”
Freeways or Highways
These main thoroughfares for cars have different names depending on where you live. Most people in the United States call them “highways,” but on the West Coast, they’re commonly known as “freeways.”
Crayfish, Crawfish, or Crawdad
These small freshwater crustaceans are a staple in Southern cuisine, but their name varies depending on where you are. In the northern states, they’re called “crayfish,” but in the South and East Coast, they are more commonly known as “crawfish.” In the Midwest, California, and Oregon, they’re “crawdads.”
Cicada, August Fly, or Jar Fly
These loud insects, known for their distinctive mating calls, are called different names depending on the region. In Appalachia, they’re often referred to as “jar flies.” In the Northeast and Midwest, they’re called “August flies,” and elsewhere, they’re called cicadas.
Garbage Can or Trash Can
These waste receptacles have different names, depending on where you live. In the Pacific Northwest, they’re known as “garbage cans,” and in the Southern states, it’s more common to hear “trash cans.”
Faucet or Spigot
These terms both refer to the water outlet in your sink, but their usage varies depending on location. In the northern states, “faucet” is more commonly used, while in the southern states, it’s often called a “spigot.”
Frosting or Icing
This sweet and creamy topping is essential for any cake or cupcake. Most Americans recognize either “Frosting” or “Icing. However, “Frosting” is more common on the Pacific coast, the Midwest, and the Northeast.
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