NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Smokies? Fixin’? Cattywampus? If you’re already confused, then you most likely need to brush up on your Tennessee lingo.
Tennessee is split into three regions: West, Middle and East. With millions of people in each area, the state has created its own slang and phrases.
To help you out, News 2 rounded up a guide of words and sayings local to the Volunteer State that can sometimes leave tourists scratching their heads.
Smokies
No, we’re not talking about the cocktail sausages that are simmered in a crockpot! When Tennesseans talk about the “smokies,” they are usually referencing the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee.
Fixin’
In Tennessee, “fixin” doesn’t mean you’re about to fix something or make repairs. Instead, it’s a phrase that represents someone is “about to” or “preparing to” do something. (e.g. I’m fixin’ to go to the store).
Goo Goos
Sweet marshmallow nougat, smooth chocolate, creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts – is your mouth watering yet? Those ingredients make up the Goo Goo Cluster, known as Nashville’s official candy. The sweet treat originated in Music City in 1901 by Howard Campbell Sr., and his foreman, Porter Moore. Try the classic candy in-store on 3rd Avenue South in Nashville.
Coke
Yes, Coke is a specific type of carbonated drink manufactured by the Coca-Cola Company. However, Tennesseans tend to use the term to represent all soft drinks, no matter the brand.
Cattywampus
You might need a translator, or a Tennessean, to tell you what this word means. In fact, the meaning of the word is just as discombobulated as it sounds. The term is used when things are askew, going badly or in the wrong direction, according to Cambridge Dictionary.
Toboggan
For those who live in the north — where snow is more common — a toboggan stands for a sled that is typically used for coasting downhill on snow. For Tennesseans, the term refers to a knit hat that is usually worn in colder months.
Honky tonk
Planning a trip to Nashville soon? It’s time to get familiar with honky tonks. A honky tonk is a establishment that usually offers performances around the clock, casual bar cuisine and cold drinks. In Nashville, tourists can find a whole row of honky tonks on Broadway…