Louisiana is a cultural crossroads shaped by French, Spanish, African, and American influences, giving rise to some of the most distinctive food, music, and customs in the United States. From the moss-draped bayous of Cajun Country to the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans, the Pelican State offers a world of flavor and tradition. If you want to sound like you’ve been second-lining and slurping gumbo your whole life, here are 18 slang expressions that capture the spirit of Louisiana.
The Pelican State
Louisiana’s official nickname, reflecting the brown pelican on its flag and its abundant coastal wildlife. You’ll see pelican motifs everywhere—from street signs to sports teams.
NOLA
A shorthand for New Orleans, Louisiana. If someone says, “I’m heading to NOLA,” they’re probably gearing up for beignets, brass bands, and a taste of the French Quarter.
Cajun
Refers to the French-speaking Acadian descendants who settled in the bayous and prairies of southern Louisiana. Their food (boudin, gumbo, jambalaya) and music (zydeco) are iconic throughout the state.
Creole
A term for Louisiana people and culture with roots in French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean heritage—particularly around New Orleans. Creole cuisine is known for its rich sauces, tomatoes, and diverse blend of flavors.
Laissez les bons temps rouler
A Cajun French phrase meaning “Let the good times roll.” It’s a rallying cry for festivals, Mardi Gras, and pretty much any celebration in Louisiana.
Lagniappe
Pronounced “lan-yap,” it means “a little something extra.” Whether it’s a free side dish at a restaurant or a surprise treat, lagniappe is a beloved tradition of generosity.
Parrain / Nanny
Godfather (Parrain) and godmother (Nanny) in Louisiana French. Family is a big deal here, and these terms are used often—even outside of formal church ceremonies.
Pinch the Tail, Suck the Head
A step-by-step guide to eating boiled crawfish: break off the tail, eat the meat, then suck out the juices from the head. It might sound intense, but it’s a Louisiana rite of passage.
Cher
A term of endearment in Cajun French meaning “dear” or “sweetheart.” You might hear “Hey cher, how’s ya mom and dem?” in a warm, welcoming drawl.
Po’ Boy
A classic Louisiana sandwich on French bread, stuffed with fried seafood or roast beef, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a slather of sauce. Get it “dressed” if you want all the fixings.
Sazerac
The official cocktail of New Orleans—rye whiskey (or cognac), sugar, bitters, a hint of absinthe, and a lemon twist. It’s a piece of liquid history dating back to the 1800s.
Andouille
A spicy smoked sausage integral to Cajun and Creole cooking. Whether it’s in gumbo or jambalaya, andouille adds that signature kick you’ll only find in Louisiana cuisine.
Boudin
A sausage casing stuffed with pork, rice, and spices. Often served as links or deep-fried “boudin balls,” it’s a gas station delicacy in rural parts of the state.
Making Groceries
A New Orleans phrase meaning “grocery shopping.” Stems from a French idiom (“faire le marché”), locals still say they’re “making groceries” at the store.
Neutral Ground
What most places call a “median” in the road, New Orleanians call the “neutral ground.” Historically, it was where the French and Americans met in the city—today, it’s a place to catch beads during Mardi Gras parades.
Throw Me Somethin’, Mister!
A Mardi Gras parade cry heard from the sidewalks, signaling a float rider to toss beads, doubloons, or trinkets. It’s all part of the carnival tradition—just shout, and hope for some shiny loot.
Second Line
The celebratory street parade following a funeral or special event, led by a brass band. The “first line” is the main procession; the “second line” is everyone else dancing joyously behind them.
The Parish
Louisiana’s version of a county. If someone says, “I’m from St. Tammany Parish,” they’re just telling you the region they hail from—without ever using the word “county.”
These everyday expressions bring to life Louisiana’s unique blend of heritage, hospitality, and rhythm. From Mardi Gras floats rumbling down neutral grounds to bowls of steaming jambalaya in a corner café, every moment here is a chance to “let the good times roll.” Embrace these phrases, and you’ll be second-lining through the streets of NOLA in no time.
