11 Words That Prove You’ve Lived in Indiana Too Long—Can You Say Them?

Indiana is known for its vast farmlands, its rich sports culture (hello, Hoosiers!), and of course, the Indianapolis 500.

But there’s something else that sets the Hoosier State apart: its unique local vocabulary. If you’ve spent enough time living in Indiana, there’s no way you haven’t picked up some of these local sayings and pronunciations.

Whether you’re born and raised in Indiana or you’ve called it home for years, mastering these 11 words is a surefire way to prove you’ve lived in the state too long. Can you say them all?

1. Pop (Not Soda!)

One of the most iconic terms in Indiana is “pop.” If you want to grab a carbonated drink, don’t ask for a soda or a soft drink—locals will expect you to ask for “pop.” Walk into any convenience store and ask for “pop,” and you’ll be instantly recognized as a Hoosier, no doubt about it.

2. Fry (Not “Fried”)

In Indiana, “fry” is used as a verb to describe the act of frying food, but the twist comes in when it’s used as a description of something that’s already been fried. Instead of saying “fried chicken,” locals may simply say “fry chicken,” dropping the past tense. It’s a little quirk that you’ll notice once you’ve been here long enough.

3. The Region

“The Region” is a term that refers to the northwest corner of Indiana, often known for its industrial past and proximity to Chicago. The people from The Region are known for their distinct accent and regional pride. If you’ve lived in Indiana long enough, you’ve probably visited or met someone from The Region—and you’ve definitely heard the term used in conversation!

4. Carmel

While “Carmel” might seem like a straightforward name, it’s pronounced Car-mul (rhyming with “caramel”) in Indiana. Residents will give you a puzzled look if you call it “Car-mel” (the standard pronunciation). It’s one of those Hoosierisms that only locals know how to pronounce right.

5. Indiana’s “Cinco de Mayo”

If you’ve lived in Indiana long enough, you’ve heard of “Cinco de Mayo”—and no, we’re not talking about the Mexican holiday. Hoosiers use it to refer to a certain type of tortilla chip that’s sold at local supermarkets, often part of a larger, somewhat homemade spread of party snacks. Locals use the term with a certain level of reverence and respect.

6. Wreck (Instead of “Accident”)

If you’re from Indiana, you’ve definitely heard someone use “wreck” when talking about a car crash or accident. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, it’s just a “wreck” in Hoosier-speak. It’s such a common term that when you’re out of state, calling it a “wreck” might sound strange to others!

7. Slaw

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While you might be familiar with “coleslaw” as a side dish at picnics or BBQs, Hoosiers will often just shorten it to “slaw.” If you’re ordering food in Indiana and you want a side of cabbage, make sure to say “slaw,” or you might confuse the waiter and be met with a blank stare.

8. Hoosier

Now, you can’t live in Indiana and not know this word! But if you’ve lived here long enough, you know that being a “Hoosier” means a lot more than just being from Indiana—it’s about pride, culture, and a love for all things local, whether it’s the Indiana Pacers, Purdue University, or the Indianapolis Colts. And if you’re a true Hoosier, you’ll know exactly what it means to wear that title with pride.

9. Lafayette

This one’s easy to get wrong if you’re not from Indiana. Locals pronounce “Lafayette” Laff-ee-et (instead of Laff-ay-et). If you’re giving directions to the city, or mentioning a visit to Purdue University, make sure you pronounce it right to avoid sounding like an out-of-towner.

10. Steak

If you’re ordering a steak in Indiana, be prepared for the classic request: “How do you want your steak?” But unlike other states where you might hear “medium-rare” or “well-done,” in Indiana, the answer is most likely going to be “cooked all the way through” or “not pink.” Locals like their steaks well done, and this vocabulary has become ingrained in everyday conversation.

11. Cummins

If you’ve lived in Indiana long enough, you’ve probably heard of Cummins—the engine manufacturer based in Columbus, Indiana. While this might seem like a company name, in Indiana, it’s almost a part of the local culture, synonymous with the pride that Hoosiers have for their state’s history in manufacturing and innovation.

Whether you’re ordering a pop, passing through Carmel, or talking about a “wreck” on the highway, these 11 words are the true markers of someone who’s spent a significant amount of time living in Indiana. If you can confidently use these terms without batting an eye, then you’ve certainly earned your Hoosier status.

From the region-specific pronunciations to the food-related quirks, Indiana’s local vocabulary tells you a lot about the state and the pride its people have in their home. So, can you say all of these words without hesitation? If so, you’re officially a Hoosier!

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