New Hampshire might be small in size, but it’s big on character, from the rugged White Mountains to the quaint New England villages sprinkled along its roads. Its history, independent spirit, and striking natural beauty are captured in the state motto “Live Free or Die.” Whether you’re leaf-peeping in the fall or ice fishing in the winter, these 18 local slang terms will help you sound like you truly belong in the Granite State.
The Granite State
The official nickname for New Hampshire, referring to its extensive granite formations. You’ll see reminders of this hardy rock in everything from old stone walls to the state house steps.
Live Free or Die
The state motto, boldly declaring New Hampshire’s fierce independence. You’ll see it on license plates, flags, and the occasional T-shirt proudly worn around town.
603
The single area code that covers the entire state. When someone reps “the 603,” you know they’re a dyed-in-the-wool New Hampshirite.
Ayuh
A classic New England expression for “yes.” Particularly common in the northern part of the state, it’s a quick giveaway that you’ve been hanging around Granite Staters for a while.
Wicked
A quintessentially New England intensifier meaning “very” or “extremely.” You might hear, “That hike was wicked steep,” or “This maple syrup is wicked good.”
The Kanc
Short for the Kancamagus Highway, a scenic byway through the White Mountain National Forest. If a local says, “We’re driving the Kanc,” expect breathtaking views and plenty of leaf-peeping in the fall.
Leaf-Peeping
The fall tradition of traveling to see the vibrant foliage. New Hampshire’s autumn colors draw in tourists from around the world—and give locals something to gripe about (all that traffic!).
The Notch
Refers to Franconia Notch, Crawford Notch, or Pinkham Notch—famous mountain passes in the White Mountains. Heading “up to the Notch” could mean hiking, skiing, or just soaking in the views.
Statie
Local shorthand for a New Hampshire State Trooper. If you’re speeding along I-93 or I-89, watch out for the staties—those cruisers aren’t shy about pulling folks over.
Town Meeting
The annual tradition where residents gather to vote on budgets, elect local officials, and debate issues like school funding. In small-town New Hampshire, Town Meeting is democracy at its most personal.
Sugar Shack
A small building where sap is boiled down to make maple syrup. Come late winter or early spring, smoke and sweet steam billow out of these shacks—and locals line up for fresh syrup and maple sugar candy.
Rotary
What most of the country calls a “traffic circle” or “roundabout.” In New Hampshire, you’ll often hear, “Take the third exit off the rotary,” like it’s no big deal.
Mud Season
The messy period between winter and spring when dirt roads turn into mucky quagmires. Drive carefully, or you’ll end up with a car caked in that good old Granite State mud.
Foliage
A more refined term than “leaf-peeping,” often used to describe the seasonal color changes. Locals might say, “The foliage is looking prime this weekend,” right before cursing the traffic jams.
Camp
In New Hampshire, a “camp” could be anything from a rustic cabin to a lakeside retreat. If someone’s “heading up to camp,” they’re off to unplug and enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
The Lake
Usually refers to Lake Winnipesaukee, the state’s largest and a beloved summer destination. Locals will say, “We’re going to the Lake,” and assume everyone knows which lake they’re talking about.
Mahoosuc
A mountainous region that stretches into Maine. Pronounced “mah-HOO-suc,” it’s a less-crowded favorite among hardcore hikers who want the rugged side of the Granite State.
The Old Man (of the Mountain)
A now-collapsed rock formation that once resembled a man’s face, and was a state icon. Though it fell in 2003, locals still reference “the Old Man” as a symbol of New Hampshire identity.
These slang expressions capture the essence of New Hampshire’s rugged landscapes, tight-knit communities, and good-humored pragmatism. By throwing around words like “ayuh,” respecting “mud season,” and knowing your way around “the Kanc,” you’ll blend right in with the Granite State crowd. So next time you’re debating budgets at Town Meeting or enjoying the foliage from a sugar shack, remember: Live Free or Die—New Hampshire style.
