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

Iowa: a place where the corn grows tall, the winters are long, and the accents and local slang can make you feel right at home. If you’ve lived in the Hawkeye State for any length of time, chances are you’ve picked up a few words that are quintessentially Iowan.

These words may sound strange to outsiders but are music to the ears of anyone who’s spent time in the heart of the Midwest. Here’s a list of 11 words that prove you’ve lived in Iowa too long—can you say them?

1. “Crick” (Creek)
One of the most iconic Iowa words, “crick” replaces “creek” for many locals. If you find yourself saying this, you’ve definitely crossed into full Iowan territory.

2. “Pop” (Soda)
While other regions of the country might call it “soda,” Iowans are loyal to their “pop.” Whether it’s a Coke, Pepsi, or any other sugary carbonated beverage, it’s always pop in Iowa.

3. “Youbetcha” (You Bet)
This enthusiastic affirmation is a dead giveaway that you’ve spent some serious time in Iowa. It’s more than just a casual “yes”; it’s a way of life.

4. “Farmer’s tan”
If you’ve ever spent an afternoon in the fields or working outside in Iowa, you’re familiar with the term “farmer’s tan.” It’s a badge of honor for anyone who’s worked under the Iowa sun.

5. “Hog butcher”
Iowa is one of the top pork-producing states, so it’s no surprise that a “hog butcher” is someone involved in the pork industry. If you’ve heard or used this term, you know you’re truly from Iowa.

6. “Bubbler” (Drinking Fountain)

While “drinking fountain” is common elsewhere, Iowans often call them “bubblers.” This quirky term likely comes from the way the water bubbles up when you press the button.

7. “Good on ya”
Another phrase that you’ll hear Iowans say in response to a job well done or when showing support for someone else’s achievement. It’s a casual but heartfelt way to show approval.

8. “Tater tot hotdish”
A regional favorite, the “tater tot hotdish” is an essential comfort food for Iowans. It’s a casserole made with tater tots, ground meat, veggies, and a creamy sauce. If you’ve ever made or eaten this dish, you’re certainly a local.

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9. “The fair”
When Iowans refer to “the fair,” they mean one thing and one thing only—the Iowa State Fair. It’s an iconic event for locals, where you can see everything from farm animals to fried food on a stick.

10. “Y’all” (You All)
You might think this phrase belongs to the Southern states, but Iowans use it just as often. It’s a casual way to refer to a group of people, and it’s often heard at family gatherings or community events.

11. “Sloppy joe”
While this might sound like a generic sandwich to some, the Iowan version of a sloppy joe is distinctly different. Made with a thick, savory filling and served on a bun, it’s a classic Midwest comfort food you’ll find at nearly every gathering.

If you’ve lived in Iowa long enough to adopt these words and phrases, it’s clear you’ve embraced the state’s culture and charm.

Whether it’s referring to a creek as a “crick” or using “pop” instead of soda, these regional words are a fun way to bond with fellow Iowans. Next time you hear someone say “y’all” or “youbetcha,” you’ll know exactly where they’re from—and it’s probably Iowa.

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