Maine is known for its stunning landscapes, delicious lobster rolls, and friendly, no-nonsense locals. But the real charm of the Pine Tree State lies in its unique language and expressions that often leave visitors scratching their heads in confusion – or bursting out in laughter. Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Maine, and what they really mean!
1. “You can’t get there from here.”
Maine locals have a very specific way of giving directions – “You can’t get there from here” means that the road you’re looking for doesn’t lead directly to your destination. It’s more of a heads-up that you might need to take a few detours. It’s a typical Maine approach to geography—straightforward but a bit tricky.
2. “That’s wicked good.”
In Maine, “wicked” is a term used to intensify whatever follows it. So, when someone says “wicked good”, they’re saying something is exceptionally great. For example, “That lobster roll was wicked good!” It’s a word that’s as much a part of Maine culture as the ocean breeze.
3. “He’s off like a herd of turtles.”
When someone is taking their time or moving slowly, Mainers like to say “He’s off like a herd of turtles”. It’s a quirky way of acknowledging that someone is not in a hurry. Think of it as the Maine way of saying, “They’re moving at their own pace.”
4. “I’m just headin’ out back.”
In Maine, “out back” doesn’t mean a vacation spot. It refers to the backyard or any remote area behind the house. So when a Mainer says, “I’m just headin’ out back”, they mean they’re going to the backyard to do something—probably chopping wood or taking care of the garden.
5. “I’m wicked smart.”
This one is a playful twist on the popular phrase “I’m smart”. Mainers have a self-deprecating way of using “wicked” in a humble, yet humorous, way. If someone says, “I’m wicked smart”, they might be showing off—or simply trying to amuse you.
6. “It’s colder than a well-digger’s lunch.”
Mainers know cold. So, if they’re telling you something is colder than a well-digger’s lunch, they mean it’s really cold! The phrase evokes the image of a lunch left underground during the winter months—chilly, to say the least.
7. “That’s how the cookie crumbles.”
Mainers use this phrase when something doesn’t go as planned, but they take it in stride. Instead of stressing out, they simply shrug and say “That’s how the cookie crumbles.” It’s a phrase that reflects the laid-back nature of Maine life.
8. “I’m gonna go get a cup of chowder.”
In Maine, you’ll hear “chowder” mentioned often. But when a Mainer says they’re going to get a cup of chowder, they’re not just talking about any old soup—they’re referring to the legendary New England clam chowder. It’s the perfect comfort food, and it’s wicked good too!
9. “It’s a Maine minute.”
In Maine, a “Maine minute” doesn’t mean a specific amount of time—it’s really just a loose way of saying, “I’ll be there eventually.” It might be more like a “Maine hour”, but it’s said in good humor and with that classic Maine slow-paced attitude.
10. “Not a lick of sense.”
When something doesn’t make sense, Mainers often say “Not a lick of sense.” For example, “That idea makes not a lick of sense.” The phrase is simple, direct, and says it all—nothing complicated, just good, old-fashioned Maine straightforwardness.
Maine’s unique expressions and sayings reflect the charm of the state—funny, direct, and often a little quirky. Whether you’re enjoying a lobster roll or just chatting with a local, these phrases are part of what makes Maine such a delightful and memorable place to visit or live.
SOURCES
[1] https://matadornetwork.com/pulse/mini-guide-maine-english/
[2] https://q1065.fm/oldie-timey-maine-phrases-that-should-be-brought-back-immediately/
[3] https://www.visitmaine.net/maine-slang-words/
[4] https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/state-pride/maine/13-own-language-me
[5] https://southernmaineonthecheap.com/maine-slang-phrases/
