Even though New Orleans is in America, Brian and I frequently found ourselves shrugging our shoulders at some of the strange language around us. Of course, New Orleans has deep roots in the French language, but here are a few English terms even we had to ask about. Thankfully we were visiting a local family who has been here for decades so they are a pretty trusty resource!

Get down / get out of the car, drop by for a visit if you’re in the area

Snoball / snow cone, sometimes served ‘stuffed’ with ice cream

Makin’ groceries / grocery shopping or buying groceries

Neutral ground / median of the street, oftentimes grassy

Dressed / po boy topped with all the fixings (lettuce, mayo, and tomato)

Parish / county

Comin’ up / growing up

If you’re in Louisiana in the future, hopefully these help you look a little less confused when you’re talking with locals.