18 Black Country words and phrases locals love using in everyday conversation

Many of us use these words and sayings in our everyday conversation here in Wolverhampton and the Black Country.

For those who aren’t from the region these words may seem slightly odd.

That’s why we thought we’d go through some of the words and phrases that locals from this part of the world know and love.

Here are 18 Black Country words and phrases that locals know and love using:

1. 'Our kid'

Term of endearment for a younger person or a close friend. 

2. ‘Going up the cut’

Usually means going along a canal path to get some place.

3. 'Stop crying it's only a scrage'

Means stop crying over nothing, 'scrage' is a local term for a minor wound.

4. 'He's got a right cob on'

Usually means someone is grumpy and/or in a bad mood.

5. 'Off to the outdoor' 

A term for an off-licence.

6. 'Saves you going round the Wrekin' 

Named after the large hill in Shropshire. Simply means to save you going the long way around.

7. 'You alright bab?'

Used as a term of endearment, usually means: 'Are you okay, dear/love/mate?' The term 'bab' can also refer to a baby or a small child. 

Get the Daily Newsletter from the Express & Star

8. 'It's black over Bill's mother's' 

Simply means that it looks like it'll rain soon. Usually, used when the sky is overcast with dark clouds.

9. 'Go play up your own end' 

Often said to children who are making too much noise. But can also, be used as a way of telling someone to leave you alone.

10. 'Ta-ra a bit' 

Means goodbye, say when leaving someone.

11. 'How's your mom?' 

People from the Black Country tend to pronounce 'Mum' as 'Mom'. This is a key characteristic of the local accent.

12. 'Throw a wobbly' 

Means throwing a tantrum, or when someone has lost their temper.

13. 'Do a gambol' 

To do a forward roll. 

14. 'They're such a nause' 

Meaning, they're such an annoying person.

15. 'Cob' 

The term refers to a bread roll

16. 'Buzz'

 A term for a 'bus' 

17.  'Tip Tops'

These flavoured ice treats were essential to stay cool during any school summer holidays heatwave, with Mr Freeze ice poles being a favourite, available from shops for 5p and 10p back in the day. 

18. 'Island'

A way of referring to a roundabout.