11 Words That Prove You’ve Lived in Missouri Too Long

Missouri, the Show-Me State, is known for its distinctive culture, from its rich history to its unique geography. But perhaps one of the most charming aspects of living here is the way Missourians speak. 

Over time, locals pick up words and phrases that are a bit outside the ordinary, blending rural, urban, and Midwestern influences into their everyday vocabulary. If you’ve lived in Missouri for long enough, chances are you’ve started using some of these regional expressions. Here are 11 words that prove you’ve lived in Missouri too long—can you say them?

1. Hoosier

While “Hoosier” technically refers to someone from Indiana, in Missouri, it’s often used to describe someone who might be considered a bit “country.” The term is endearing and can describe someone with a rural or laid-back lifestyle.
Example: “You’re just a big ol’ hoosier, aren’t you?”

2. Pop

If you’re used to calling a carbonated beverage “soda” or “soft drink,” you might be surprised to hear that in Missouri, it’s always referred to as “pop.” No matter if it’s Coke, Sprite, or Dr. Pepper, it’s “pop” to locals.
Example: “Can you grab me a pop from the fridge?”

3. Coke

Similar to the Southern tradition, some Missourians refer to any kind of soda as “Coke.” So if someone asks for a Coke, they might mean any brand of soft drink.
Example: “I’ll take a Coke—make it a Dr. Pepper.”

4. Rile

In Missouri, if something or someone is causing trouble, it’s said to “rile” you up. It’s often used to describe something that agitates or frustrates you.
Example: “That loud music really riles me.”

5. Feller

“Feller” is a colloquial term for a man or a fellow, and it’s often used affectionately in Missouri. You might hear it when someone’s talking about a friend or family member.
Example: “That feller over there is the best mechanic in town.”

6. Yonder

If you hear someone in Missouri say “yonder,” they’re referring to somewhere in the distance. Whether it’s a location or an event happening a little further down the road, “yonder” is a classic term.
Example: “You see that barn way over yonder? That’s where we’re headed.”

7. Ain’t

While “ain’t” is often frowned upon in formal settings, it’s commonly used in Missouri as a casual contraction for “am not,” “is not,” or “are not.” It’s just part of the local charm!
Example: “I ain’t got time to go today.”

8. Bud

In Missouri, “bud” is a friendly term used for a buddy or friend, and it’s often used to refer to someone with whom you’re familiar. It’s as casual as saying “pal” or “dude.”
Example: “Hey, bud, how’s it going?”

9. Poke

In Missouri, a “poke” isn’t just a prod; it’s also a term for a bag, especially a paper or plastic one. The word is often used to refer to a sack or container.
Example: “I’ll just grab a poke of apples from the store.”

10. Tump Over

To “tump over” something in Missouri means to knock it over or tip it over. This charming phrase might make you smile if you hear it, but it’s just another example of regional speech.
Example: “Be careful with that jar, it might tump over!”

11. Winder

If you’ve spent enough time in Missouri, you might catch yourself calling a “window” a “winder.” It’s a small but delightful slip that shows just how deeply rooted local vernacular can become.
Example: “Close that winder; it’s gettin’ chilly in here.”

Whether you’re in the rolling hills of the Ozarks or the bustling streets of St. Louis, these words are a fun and familiar part of life in Missouri.

Over time, you might find yourself slipping into these phrases without even thinking about it, and that’s just the beauty of being a Missourian. So, the next time you’re talking to a fellow Show-Me State resident, be sure to throw in a few of these words—because if you can say them, you’re definitely part of the local flavor!