The Language of New Orleans

In today’s episode, we explore the language of New Orleans.  A dictionary and pronunciation guide for visitors to the Crescent City.  You’ll get a flavor of the city, learn a little about the history, and know what you’re getting into when you come to visit!

New Orleans owes its colorful language to the mix of cultures that make New Orleans what it is.  French, Spanish, African, Creole, Cajun, the people of Nova Scotia, of Haiti and the Caribbean as a whole.  We’re influenced by our colonial roots, the slave trade, our food and our music.  All of these factor into the words we use, the things they describe, and even the way we say them.  Put it all together and you get a language as unique as New Orleans herself!

During the show, we cover words and phrases that cross all aspects of life in the Crescent City, including people, places, food, everyday items, colors, Carnival and more.  You’ll learn about lagniappe and the difference between Cajun and Creole.  We discuss the way people pronounce New Orleans and talk about the city’s nicknames.  You’ll also learn why we have neutral grounds in New Orleans instead of medians, and why Louisiana has parishes and not counties.

All this and lots more, on episode 11 of the podcast!

Thanks so much for listening to this episode!  If you want to hear more shows like this one, please subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher.  New episodes are available every other Wednesday.  You can check us out on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website

Until next time, laissez le bon temps rouler!