Vermont has its own style of humor and a set of sayings and idioms that catch the state’s rural charm, dry wit, and unique flavor. Here are some of the best and most unique Vermont sayings and phrases:
Classic Vermont Sayings & Idioms
- “Jeezum Crow!”
A classic Vermont exclamation of surprise or frustration. Locals swear by it, and outsiders are often left scratching their heads. - “Hard tellin’, not knowin’.”
Used when someone doesn’t know the answer and isn’t about to guess. - “Ayut.”
A quick, clipped affirmation, similar to “yup” or “yep,” often delivered with a straight face. - “Pritneer.”
Short for “pretty near,” as in, “I was pritneer home when my tire blew”. - “You can’t get there from here.”
A favorite, especially when giving directions in Vermont’s winding backroads. Best delivered in a slow, deadpan tone. - “Not bad, ‘an you?”
The standard response to “How are you?” in many Vermont counties, especially among farmers. - “Got done.”
When someone retires or leaves a job, Vermonters say they “got done” rather than “quit” or “retired”. - “Creemee.”
What Vermonters call soft-serve ice cream. Ask for this out of state and expect some confused looks. - “Door yard.”
Refers to the space outside the door, typically the yard or driveway area. - “Flatlander.”
A term for anyone not from Vermont, especially those from more urban or southern areas. - “Good’nyoo?”
A quick, clipped way to say “Good, and you?” in response to “How are you?”.
Vermont Humor & Local Jokes
- “Have you lived here your whole life?”
Local’s reply: “Not yet…”. - “Colder n’ a witch’s tit.”
Used to describe Vermont’s famously frigid winters. - “As the crow flies.”
Refers to the most direct route, often used when discussing Vermont’s winding roads. - “Shit kickers.”
What Vermonters call work boots. - “He’s a lousy worker—disappears when it gets hard. He’s a real ole foreskin.”
A colorful insult, meaning someone who gives up when the going gets tough.
Witty Vermont One-Liners & Jokes
- “In Vermont, winter lasts for nine months and then gets really bad for three months.”
- “How many people from Vermont do you need to switch out a light bulb?”
- “Two to talk about how much better the old one was and one to change it.”
- “You only have ketchup, salt, and pepper.”
- “Your snowblower has more miles on it than your car.”
- “In Vermont, it’s almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction.”
- “Why did Jesus not come to Milton?” “Because they couldn’t find a virgin and three wise men.”
- “What is the best thing that Rutland has ever done?” The 7th route.”
- “Yes, you say Mil’n, not Mil-TON!”
Cheesy Vermont Puns
- “I’m gouda at making friends in Vermont!”
- “You cheddar believe Vermont is the best place for cheese lovers!”
- “Life is gouda when you’re surrounded by Vermont cheese.
Local Wisdom
- “Don’t you dare tell a Vermonter that Champ, the lake monster of Lake Champlain, doesn’t exist.”
Sayings from Vermont are a mix of dry humour, pride in the state, and useful advice. These sayings, whether they’re sarcastic quips, unique idioms, or puns about cheese and snow, show what the Green Mountain State is all about and make us laugh.
