Alaskan Vocabulary

Hi there!

I thought maybe we would have a mini vocabulary lesson today.  Many words in our repertoire are rather Alaskan and pretty prevalent in our conversation, so let’s review:

Lower 48 = All the other states in the USA (for some reason, Hawaii is both separate and non-existent when we talk about our country’s other states). “Groceries in the Lower 48 are so much cheaper than here.”

Outside = Any location other than Alaska. “We’re going Outside for my birthday.”

The Bush = Anywhere in Alaska not accessible by road or ferry system. “I’m flying to the Bush this week to visit my parents.”

Snowmachine = A snowmobile to Lower 48 folks.  Not using this one correctly is a sure giveaway that you’re new to Alaska.

Sled = Also a snowmachine.

Sourdough = An old-timer Alaskan, knowledgeable in all things Alaskan.  “That Sourdough knows more about trapping than anyone else I know.”

Cheechako = A newbie to Alaska or someone who doesn’t know much – usually an insult. “That Cheechako forgot to wear gloves.”

Breakup = The time in the spring when snow and ice starts to melt, rivers begin to flow, and a winter’s worth of dog poo seems to be everywhere.

Termination Dust = New snow on the mountain tops in the fall, signaling the end, or termination, of summer.

Wet/Dry/Damp = Refers to the status of a village’s alcohol law (Wet means alcohol is sold there, Damp means you can have alcohol, but can’t buy or sell it there, Dry means alcohol is not allowed there) or the plumbing of a building (Dry means no plumbing/running water, Wet means plumbing/running water).

*Bonus - Items that are an Alaskan’s pet peeves:

Getting asked if we live in Igloos.

Asked if we have pet polar bears and penguins.

Seeing fake photos of polar bears and penguins together.

Maps that show Alaska way down by California, Mexico, and/or Hawaii.