9 Words Only Ohio Natives Pronounce the Right Way

Here in Ohio, we tend to pronounce words the way we want to pronounce them – even if that means we add letters that don't technically belong. If you've lived in the Buckeye State long enough, you've likely developed this one-of-a-kind language over time without even noticing it. The following are nine words Ohioans pronounce uniquely. See which ones you say and let us know what others should be added to the list:

1. How to Properly Cheer “O-H…I-O” Like a True Buckeye

We don't simply say "Ohio." The sudden and occasional "O-H" means we're waiting on an "I-O" reply. You should note that this beloved chant is most famously associated with The Ohio State University and can be heard echoing through parades and football stadiums alike.

2. It’s Always “Pop,” Never “Soda,” in Ohio

We know that "soda" is really just a fancy way of saying "pop." You're not fooling us. For readers outside the Midwest, in Ohio, “pop” is the go-to word for carbonated beverages. We understand that this is a linguistic quirk that always confuses visitors from the coasts.

3. They’re Called Tennis Shoes – Not Sneakers or Gym Shoes

"Tennis shoes" doesn't necessarily refer to shoes for playing tennis. This term refers to all sneakers and athletic footwear. We know that visitors from other states usually refer to them as "gym shoes," while others call them "sneakers." But Ohioans know them as "tennis shoes."

4. Who Dey – The Chant Every Bengals Fan Knows by Heart

It's simply how we cheer. Actually, “Who Dey” is the rallying cry of Cincinnati Bengals fans. During every football season, this chant always unites the entire city. And that's what really awakens the spirit of sports in Ohio.

5. Warsh – The Classic Midwestern Twist on "Wash”

"Warsh" is just "wash" with style. From southern Ohio to other neighboring states, this regionalism consistently appears. And that's what gives everyday chores a bit of extra flair. So when visiting, don't judge us – it's one of the unique things that makes us proud to be Ohioans.

6. B-Dub’s, BW3’s, or Buffalo Wild Wings – They’re All the Same to Us

It's all the same. Here is some clarification for non-locals: “BW3’s” is short for “Buffalo Wild Wings and Weck,” which was the initial restaurant name before it was simplified. Check out this read about quirky facts about Ohio that sound made up but are totally accurate.

7. It’s JC Penney’s, Kroger’s, and Meijer’s – Always with the “S”

"JC Penney’s", "Kroger’s" and "Meijer’s" are exactly what you think they are. We like to make them possessive. Well, we know that adding that "'s" might not be grammatically correct – but we're Ohioans and that's a linguistic signature that we will always proudly own.

8. Grab the Sweeper – Not the Vacuum!

"Sweeper" refers to a vacuum cleaner. Don’t act so confused. If you tell us to get out the "vacuum cleaner," we'll just marvel at your use of what we consider to be its fancy, scientific name. We know that might baffle non-locals, but understand that it's just one of those bits of Ohio slang that defines who we are – we're Ohioans.

9. The Boot – Ohio’s Go-To Term for the Trunk of a Car

"The boot" refers to the trunk of a car – but that doesn’t mean we’re claiming we’re European or anything. It's essential to note that this phrase isn't standard across the entire state of Ohio, but rather only for some Ohioans who borrow it from British English.

Do you pronounce these words the Ohio way? What others would you add to this list? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Please let us know by completing this nomination form.

For more strange Ohioan habits, check out our previous article: 12 Extremely Weird Things Only People From Ohio Do. And, when considering a visit to Ohio to explore its charm and quirks, don't forget to use our Itinerary Planner. It will help you map out your next adventure across the Buckeye State with ease.