Does Missouri Have an Accent? Y ‘All Better Believe It Ya Hear?

Does Missouri really have a discernable accent? I believe I can prove it does with some science and viewpoints of those who don't live in Missouri, too.

If you're curious about things having to do with language and/or accents, one of the most noteworthy experts on the internet is Babbel. They have an interesting study called the United States of Accents where they explore the reality of Midwestern American English.

When it comes to accents in Missouri, they label the 'speak' in our part of America as "Midland".

They claim that people in Missouri pronounce "r's" sometimes in words where there are no "r's".

I disagree with that assessment and believe that this guy trying to explain his Missouri accent nails it better. We do tend to draw out our words...a lot.

Missouri's accent is a bit more complex as the northern half of the state and the southern are often two totally different approaches. My experience is that many people in southern Missouri think they live in Dixie and talk like southerners.

An argument can be made that there's yet another distinct Missouri accent for those that live in the St. Louis area. If you've ever bought refreshments from a vendor at a St. Louis Cardinals game, you'll recognize this.

The short answer to the original question is yes, Missouri does have an accent. Good luck figuring out which one you're dealing with though depending where you are in the Show Me State.