Newfoundland Sayings (and what they mean)
We use a lot of Newfoundland phrases on our products (trivets, ornaments, signs) and in the Newfoundland mode of the site. If you’re not from here (or you’re just curious), this page is a quick cheat sheet.
Tip: Many of these are friendly, everyday expressions. Meanings can shift a bit depending on tone and context.
Common sayings
| Sayin’ | What it means |
|---|---|
| Whaddayat? | Hello / How are you? |
| Yes b’y | Yes / wow / no kidding (often used for emphasis) |
| Yes maid | Yes / right on (friendly emphasis) |
| No b’y | No / absolutely not / you’re joking |
| Some good | Really good |
| Right some | A lot / very much |
| Best kind | Great / perfect / exactly right |
| Deadly | Awesome / excellent |
| Fairly | Very / quite / really |
| That’s a scuff | That’s funny / that’s a good joke |
| Stay where you’re to till I comes where you’re at | Hang tight / don’t move |
| I’m after… | I just did… / I’m in the middle of… (e.g., “I’m after eatin’”) |
| In around | Nearby / in the area |
| Out around | Out and about / away somewhere |
| Come from away | Someone not from Newfoundland (a visitor or newcomer) |
| What’re ya at? | What are you doing? / What’s going on? |
| How’s she goin’? | How’s it going? |
| Give ‘er | Go for it / keep going / do your best |
| Skipper / me ducky | Friendly way to address someone (context matters; always meant warm) |
| Long may your big jib draw | A blessing: may you have good luck / good fortune |
| Who knit ya? | Where are you from? / what family are you from? |
| That’s some crooked | That’s not right / unfair / suspicious |
| Get on the go | Get moving / head out |
| Have a good one, my love | A warm goodbye (often said to anyone — not just romantic) |
Why we love it
These sayings are part of the humour and warmth that make Newfoundland home. If you see a phrase on a product and you want the exact meaning (or a better fit for a gift), reach out and we’ll help you pick one.