Why Do Bostonians Say “Wicked” and Other Things Outsiders Don’t Get?

There are a few things that instantly signal you’re in Boston — Red Sox hats year-round, Dunkin’ iced coffee in a blizzard, and someone casually dropping “wicked” in conversation. But where do these quirks come from? And what do they actually mean to the people who live here?

Let’s break down some of Boston’s most iconic slang and local habits that make sense only if you’re from here.

1. “Wicked” Isn’t Just an Adjective

In Boston, “wicked” means “very” — as in, “That lobster roll was wicked good” or “It’s wicked cold today.” But the term didn’t start here. The use of “wicked” as an intensifier (rather than something evil) actually dates back to 17th-century British English, where it popped up in literary works and regional slang.

New England settlers brought the word with them, and over time, Boston made it its own. By the 1980s, it had become firmly embedded in local culture — especially among working-class communities — and was often used to signal authenticity or toughness.

Visitors may cringe, but locals love it. You’ll even spot it on T-shirts, beer cans, and storefronts all over the city.

Looking for more uniquely Boston behavior? Check out our list of 20 Unique Things To Do in Boston — yes, some are wicked fun.

2. What’s a “Rotary,” and Why Are They Everywhere?

Ask any Boston driver, and they’ll confirm: navigating a rotary (aka roundabout) here is like entering the Thunderdome. They exist across the state — often instead of traffic lights — and each one has its own unspoken set of rules. Good luck if you're not from around here.

The rotary at Fresh Pond Parkway or the chaos outside Sullivan Square? Pure Boston energy. No two are alike, and that’s exactly the problem.

If you're planning to explore beyond downtown, check out our guide to Free & Cheap Things To Do in Boston — just budget time for the rotary stress.

3. We Don’t Say “R”s — But We Add Them Randomly

It’s no myth. “Park the car” becomes “pahk the cah,” while “idea” somehow turns into “idear.” This distinct accent isn’t just in the movies — it’s part of the city’s working-class roots and still thrives in neighborhoods like Southie, Charlestown, and Dorchester.

Accent aside, Boston’s dialect has its own vocabulary too:

• Packie = liquor store

• Jimmies = chocolate sprinkles

• Frappe = a milkshake (with ice cream)

And no, we don’t care if it sounds confusing — this is Boston.

Need help decoding the local vibe? Our roundup of Top 10 Boston Summer Events will give you plenty of spots to overhear “wicked” in the wild.

Conclusion
Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong townie, these oddities are part of what makes Boston Boston.