7 Oregon Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

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

Here are 7 Oregon Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

1. Spendy = Expensive

“That organic wine is way too spendy, just get the other stuff.”

2. Sunbreak = A moment of sunshine

A sunbreak is a rare-but-happy moment between clouds when the sun shines down.

3. The sticks = Rural

“He lives out in the sticks.”

4. The mountain is out = Sunny day

When you hear someone saying the “the mountain is out”, this means it’s a sunny, clear day in Portland when Mt. Hood is not covered by clouds.

5. Jojos = Potato wedges

Jojos aren’t just normal potato wedges: a real jojo is a potato wedge that’s been breaded, pressure fried and spiced.

6. The bridge is up = Excuse for being late!

In a city built at the confluence of two rivers, bridges are a major thing in Portland and a great excuse for being late from traffic. “Sorry I’m late guys, the bridge was up.”

7. High muckamuck = Overbearing person

Taken from then from Chinook Jargon hayo makamak, which means “plenty to eat” and boastful, a high muckamuck is someone who believes themselves to be more important than they actually are. “He must be a high muckamuck to take the entire plate of biscuits before anyone else got any.”

Spending time in the state? Check out The 7 Best Spots For Chicken Wings In Portland