Every region has its own vernacular, phrases, or terms that are specific to that area. The Garden State is no exception. Here’s a list of five terms unique to New Jersey and the stories behind them. In New Jersey, we have our own vocabulary and here are five words and phrases you’ll only hear in the Garden State.
Taylor Ham
In other parts of the country, you might hear “pork roll,” but in Northern New Jersey, it’s called “Taylor Ham.” Named after its creator, John Taylor, Taylor Ham is a type of processed pork product that has been around since 1856. It’s a staple in New Jersey breakfast sandwiches, typically served with eggs and cheese. The term “Taylor Ham” is so ingrained in the culture that it even led to debates and local “Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham” feuds.
Benny
The term “Benny” often refers to tourists who visit the Jersey Shore during the summer. The origins of the term are somewhat debated, but one theory is that it’s an acronym standing for the regions from which the tourists usually hail: Bayonne, Elizabeth, Newark, and New York. Benny season is usually seen as a mixed blessing; the influx of visitors boosts the local economy but can also be a source of congestion and annoyance for locals.
Down the Shore
In most places, people would say they’re “going to the beach,” but in New Jersey, it’s common to hear “down the shore.” The phrase has roots in the state’s geography. The majority of New Jersey residents live in the northern part of the state and travel south to reach the shore, thus making a trip “down” the shore.
Jughandle
In New Jersey, left turns at major intersections are often executed via a jughandle, a type of ramp that requires you to veer right in order to make a left turn. The design was introduced in the mid-20th century as a safety measure to prevent the pile-up of cars waiting to turn left, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. If you hear someone in New Jersey talking about taking a jughandle, they’re referring to this unique turn.
Disco Fries
Disco fries are New Jersey’s answer to Canada’s poutine. It consists of french fries covered in melted cheese and gravy. The term “Disco Fries” became popular in the ’70s during the disco era. They’re a late-night staple, commonly ordered after a night of dancing or partying, hence the name.
These terms offer a small but meaningful window into New Jersey’s unique culture and history. So the next time you find yourself in the Garden State and hear someone talking about Taylor Ham or Benny, you’ll know exactly what they mean.