Nebraskans have a unique way of expressing themselves, blending rural wit, agricultural pride, and a dash of Midwestern charm. Here are some of the most hilarious and distinctive sayings and slang terms you’ll encounter in the Cornhusker State:
Classic Nebraska Sayings & Slang
“Buggy”
What most people call a shopping cart, Nebraskans often call a “buggy.” It’s a term borrowed from the South but has found a home in Nebraska’s grocery stores.
“Doodinkus”
A whimsical word for any small object whose name you can’t remember—think “thingamabob” or “whatchamacallit.” Mostly used by the older generation.
“Sandhiller”
Refers to someone from the Sandhills region of Nebraska, a vast area of grass-stabilized sand dunes. In eastern Nebraska, calling someone a “Sandhiller” is both a nod to geography and a gentle ribbing.
“Detasseling”
A rite of passage for many Nebraska teens, this term refers to the summer job of removing the tassels from corn plants—a task that’s as Nebraskan as it gets.
“Runza”
Not just a food, but a point of pride. If someone says, “Let’s grab a Runza,” they’re talking about a bread pocket stuffed with beef, cabbage, and onions—a Nebraska original.
“Dorothy Lynch”
Mentioned in the same breath as ketchup and ranch, this sweet, tangy salad dressing is a Nebraska staple. “Pass the Dorothy Lynch” is a phrase you’ll hear at any local potluck.
“Red Beer”
Only in Nebraska will you be offered a “red beer”—a mix of beer and tomato juice. It’s a local favorite, especially during Husker football games.
“Market Rat”
A term for kids who used to hang around Omaha’s Old Market district, often up to harmless mischief or just soaking in the city’s unique vibe.
“Puppy Chow”
Don’t worry, it’s not dog food! In Nebraska, “puppy chow” is a beloved homemade treat made from Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar.
Humorous Nebraska-isms
“Cornhusker Chuckle”
A laugh that’s as hearty as the state’s nickname, often shared during Husker football games or at the local diner.
“Omaha Guffaw”
The kind of laughter you’ll hear in Nebraska’s biggest city, often at the expense of the weather or the latest football score.
“Sandhills Snicker”
A joke or laugh that’s unique to the Sandhills region, often about the quirks of rural life.
“Beef Country Banter”
Jokes and stories that revolve around Nebraska’s cattle industry—expect plenty of puns about steaks and ranching.
“Platte River Quip”
A witty remark about the Platte River, famous for being “a mile wide and an inch deep”.
“Sodbuster Snicker”
Humor that pays homage to Nebraska’s farming roots, especially the early settlers who “busted sod” to plant their crops.
“Gateway Banter”
Playful jokes about Nebraska’s role as the “Gateway to the West”.
Local Color and Quirky Expressions
“He could shuck corn through a picket fence.”
A classic Nebraska way to comment on someone’s prominent teeth.
“Colder than a witch’s nose in a brass bra.”
A colorful way to describe a frigid Nebraska winter morning.
“If brains were leather, he couldn’t saddle a junebug.”
A humorous jab at someone’s lack of smarts, with a rural twist.
“That dog don’t hunt.”
Used when something just isn’t going to work out—Nebraska’s way of saying “no dice”.
“You look as happy as a dead pig in the sunshine.”
A backhanded compliment for someone who looks content, but maybe shouldn’t be.
“He squeezes a quarter so tight the eagle screams.”
A funny way to call someone frugal (or downright cheap).
Nebraska Humor in Pop Culture
“Oracle of Omaha”
A nickname for Warren Buffett, Nebraska’s most famous resident, often used in jokes about money and investing.
“Husker Hilarity”
The kind of laughter that erupts during University of Nebraska football games, especially when the Huskers are winning.
These sayings capture the humor, warmth, and down-to-earth spirit that make Nebraska unique. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, you’re bound to hear a few of these and leave with a smile—and maybe a craving for Runza or puppy chow.
Sources:
- https://www.npdodge.com/blog/2022/10/unique-words-phrases-nebraskans-say/
- https://wheninyourstate.com/nebraska/slang-terms-nebraska/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cimDdztsrX8
- https://www.pinterest.com/23becerramartin/nebraska-hick-jokes/