Gullah and Geechee Phrases: A Charleston Tradition of Language

Charleston’s language is as rich and diverse as its culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Gullah and Geechee languages. These African-influenced languages developed in the Lowcountry among the descendants of enslaved Africans who brought their languages and traditions to the region. Over time, Gullah and Geechee evolved, blending African linguistic elements with English, and have deeply influenced how locals speak today.

Here are a few Gullah and Geechee words and phrases you’ll hear around Charleston, each carrying a piece of the region’s rich heritage:

“How da da?”
A friendly greeting that means “How are you?” or “How are you doing?” It’s commonly used among friends and family, and there’s no rush to respond—just a moment to catch up and show you care.

“Ain’t got no”
A casual way of saying “don’t have any,” this phrase is a staple in Gullah and Geechee speech. It reflects the fluidity and the relaxed rhythm of the Lowcountry language. For example, “I ain’t got no time” means “I don’t have any time.”

“Git ‘long”
Similar to “go on” or “get along,” this phrase is often used to tell someone to go ahead or move along in a friendly, laid-back way. You might hear it when someone is leaving, as in “Git ‘long now,” meaning “Goodbye.”

“Might could”
A unique way of expressing possibility, “might could” is used in the Lowcountry to indicate something that could happen but isn’t definite. For example, “I might could help you” is another way of saying, “I could help you, but I’m not certain.”

“Pappy”
A term of endearment for one’s grandfather, “pappy” is used throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry, particularly in Gullah communities. It’s a warm, affectionate way of referring to a beloved elder.

“Cuz”
Short for “cousin,” “cuz” is used not only to refer to a family member but often as a term of endearment for a close friend. It’s a word that reflects the tight-knit, community-oriented nature of the Lowcountry.

“Dem”
In Gullah and Geechee, “dem” is used instead of “them.” It can be used to refer to people or things. For example, “Dem folks from the island” simply means “Those people from the island.”

“Sho’ nuff”
This phrase means “sure enough” or “certainly.” It’s a way of confirming something or agreeing wholeheartedly. For example, “That’s sho’ nuff the truth!” means “That is definitely true!”

“See ‘bout”
To “see ‘bout” someone means to check on them or take care of something. For example, “I’m gon’ see ‘bout my mama” means “I’m going to check on my mother.”

“Wha ya been doin’?”
This is a typical Gullah way of asking “What have you been doing?” It’s a casual, friendly way to show interest in someone’s day or activities.

“Ain’t no tellin’”
A way of saying “who knows” or “it’s hard to say,” this phrase reflects the laid-back attitude of the Lowcountry. For example, “Ain’t no tellin’ how long it will take” means “We don’t know how long it will take.”

“Fixin’ to”
This phrase is used to mean “getting ready to” or “about to.” You’ll often hear locals say, “I’m fixin’ to head out,” meaning they’re preparing to leave soon.

“Boilin’ over”
When something is “boilin’ over,” it means it’s gotten out of hand or is too much to handle. It can refer to an emotional situation or just something physically overflowing, like a pot on the stove. For instance, “Don’t let the pot boil over!”

“Gullah”
Not a phrase but a term, Gullah refers to the language and culture of the descendants of enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry. The Gullah language blends English with African influences, especially from West and Central African languages, and it remains an integral part of Charleston’s identity.

“Gimme some sugar”
This phrase means asking for a hug or a kiss and is a classic example of affection in Gullah. It’s often used playfully and with warmth when greeting someone you care about.

“Holler”
To “holler” means to shout or call out. It’s a fun, casual term that captures the sense of community in Charleston. “Holler at me when you get home” is a way of saying, “Give me a call when you get home.”

These phrases are just a few examples of the Gullah and Geechee language that make Charleston and the Lowcountry so unique. The beauty of these expressions lies in their connection to the region’s history, community, and cultural traditions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, using or hearing these phrases can instantly transport you to the heart of Charleston, where the language is as warm and inviting as the people who speak it.