Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Nebraska that capture the local flavor, humor, and culture:
- “Ope!”
The classic quick apology or surprise when you accidentally bump into someone or almost trip. - “Don’t Go Chasing Prairie Dogs!”
Used humorously to tell someone not to get distracted or sidetracked. - “Well, if a guy wanted to block the wind, he’d plant another row of trees.”
A common way Nebraskans offer practical advice or solutions in a laid-back, folksy style. - “Kickball is Soccer B.”
In some towns, older generations amusingly call kickball “Soccer B,” reflecting local playground lingo. - “Warsh” instead of “wash.”
A regional pronunciation quirk, mostly rural, that gives a throwback flavor to conversations. - “You can smell it, but that’s just the smell of money.”
A humorous self-aware brag about the state’s agriculture or business industries. - “Runza.”
Not just a meal but a local shorthand for a meat-filled bread pocket that’s a Nebraskan staple. - “Go Big Red!”
The beloved rallying cry for Nebraska Cornhuskers sports fans, used as a greeting or sign of support. - “Aksarben.”
Nebraska spelled backward and often said like a magical place, referring to Omaha’s famous district or events. - “Doodinkus.”
Mostly used by older folks to mean “thingamabob” or “thingy,” a term for an object whose name you don’t recall.
These sayings showcase Nebraska’s blend of down-to-earth simplicity, humor, and regional pride that locals embrace and visitors find charmingly funny.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.reddit.com/r/Nebraska/comments/a3ihz9/nebraska_phrases_colloquialism_jargon/)
[2](https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=englishunsllc)
[3](https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/nebraska-slang)
[4](https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/state-pride/nebraska/nebraskan-words)
[5](https://justinogburn.com/talk-like-a-local-in-omaha/)
