About St. John >> Unofficial Island Glossary

Unofficial Island Glossary

Barge – The boat that transports motor vehicles between St. John and St. Thomas. Not to be confused with the ‘ferry’ which transports people.

Callaloo – A leafy green vegetable which is edible when steamed.

Cay – Pronounced “Key,” this term refers to a low island of sand and coral.

Conch – Pronounced “Conk.” Large edible mollusk typically served stewed, marinated in lime juice, or pounded for use in salads.

Country – All of St. John except Cruz Bay. There is more to St. John than beaches; go explore!

Fungi – (Say “foongee”) Cornmeal based side dish similar to polenta.

Good Morning/Afternoon – The essential greeting of the Virgin Islands. Use of this greeting is deeply rooted in local culture and a quick way to show respect and friendliness.

Island Time – The pace of life here is different so be ready for things to take a little longer. We like to think of it as slow enough to be just about right.

Jumbie – Caribbean term for spirit or ghost. Mocko Jumbie, stilt walker

Love City – The nickname for St. John. Rock City -St. Thomas. Twin Cities- St. Croix Painkiller – The classic Caribbean cocktail, made from dark rum, Cream of Coconut, pineapple juice, orange juice and a dash of nutmeg.

Palou – Local dish made with rice, chicken & vegetables.

Salt Fish – Salted dried cod or sometimes mackerel. A local staple.

Tamarind – A tree which produces the brown sweet/sour fruit of the same name. The tree in the middle of the South Shore Road at The Westin.

Yank – Someone from the U.S. mainland. Also, the more formal diction used by locals when talking to tourists…as opposed to speech steeped in slang.