Wicked Good Words: From Johnnycakes to Jug Handles, a Roundup of America's Regionalisms

Americans may all drink the same brand of coffee and shop at the same chain outlets, but the way they speak may be the last, great distinguishing feature in an increasingly generic culture. In this entertaining, accessible guide to regional words and phrases readers can find out why New Yorkers have been “on line” since before the Internet.

 

• Oklahoma rain doesn't involve water—just dust

• In New England, a brat isn't just an obnoxious kid—it's also a type of sausage

• In Virginia, a come-here isn't a command—it's a nonnative