7 Iowa Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

If you’re spending some time in the state, you will want to know these Iowa slang words to help you speak like a local. From great road trips to tasty burgers, as well as enjoyable cities like Des Moines, this is a state you will want to get to know a whole lot better.

Here are 7 Iowa Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

1. Parking Ramp = Parking garage

To the rest of the country, this is a parking garage. In Iowa, though, you’ll want to find a parking ramp to store your car while you’re in the city.

2. Going gravel = Take the back roads

Iowans avoid traffic as much as possible, and that means “going gravel” whenever possible! Taking these dusty back roads is a great way to avoid slowdowns and delays on the major roads.

3. Knee-High by the 4th = Farmers’ saying

Knee-high by the Fourth of July is a common saying for corn farmers throughout the Midwest. It serves as a way to measure the corn’s growth and compare it to previous years.

4. Squinnies = Squirrels

You might also call them grinnies, stripers, or chippers – but most people around here will never say “look at that cute little ground squirrel”.

5. Ragbrai = Annual Bicycle Ride

The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa has been an Iowa tradition since 1973. The famous ride takes an entire week to cross the state.

6. Padiddle = Car game

Does anyone still punch their fellow car passengers when they pass a car with one headlight out? No? Huh, must not have grown up in Iowa!

7. Kybo = Port-a-potty

“Uh oh, I gotta go! Where’s the kybo?”

Spending time in the state? Check out The Most Instagrammable Spots In Iowa.