Welcome to North Carolina, the Tar Heel State where barbecue is a noun, not a verb, and college basketball is almost a religion. If you’ve ever spoken with a North Carolinian and felt as if they were speaking a different language, you’re not alone.
Here’s a humorous, tongue-in-cheek guide to 14 terms and phrases that can only be understood if you live in this diverse and beautiful state.
Tar Heel
This is more than simply a nickname; it is an identity. Whether you’re rooting for UNC or simply pleased to be from North Carolina, being a Tar Heel runs deep.
Carolina Blue
A certain shade of blue that everyone knows right away. People will know you’re talking about the University of North Carolina if you say it.
Barbecue
In North Carolina, barbecue refers to slow-cooked, pulled pork. And don’t get us started on the Eastern versus Western style dispute.
Sweet Tea
The default beverage. If you order tea, expect it to be so sweet that your dentist will grimace.
Cheerwine
Salisbury is where this cherry-flavored soft drink was born. It is a must-have at picnics, cookouts, and in every self-respecting North Carolinian’s refrigerator.
Bojangles’
A fast-food chain that specialises in fried chicken and biscuits. Their seasoning is so well-known that it can be considered a food group.
The Triangle
Refers to the area that includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. It is a centre for technology, education, and heated college rivalries.
First in Flight
A nod to where the Wright brothers made their first successful flight at Kitty Hawk. This will be prominently featured on registration plates.
OBX
Short for the Outer Banks, a group of barrier islands known for their beaches, lighthouses, and wild horses.
Pig Pickin’
A social gathering where a whole pig is cooked and everyone digs in. It’s as much about the people as it is about the excellent cuisine.
Bless Your Heart
A versatile expression that can convey pity, sass, or a subtle insult. Context is essential!
Mountaineer
An attractive road with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This road is popular for Sunday drives and looking at the leaves.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
A picturesque road with amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s ideal for Sunday drives and leaf-peeping.
ACC
Atlantic Coast Conference. College athletics, particularly basketball, are taken very seriously here.
So there you have it—a fun look at North Carolina’s own vocabulary. Whether you’re drinking Cheerwine or discussing the finer nuances of barbecue sauce, these phrases can help you fit right in. So get some sweet tea and enjoy the Tar Heel spirit; you’re nearly a North Carolinian now!