A term, more often spelled "yinzer," is usually used as a pejorative. It refers to those from western Pennsylvania, other
mid-southern states, parts of the
mid-west, and some east-southern states, who use the word "yins" (variations include "yinz," "yenz," and others). It is pejorative because it is used to judge groups of
people, through language, based on their socio-economic status, typically being that of the working class. Other, more widely known, offensive terms
may be synonyms, such as "
inbred" or "
white trash."
Uses of "yinser" are typically made as offensive generalizations about those who use the word "yins" (and its variations) based on the fact that its usage exists in areas which are highly populated by those with working class status, especially in what is known as the "Rust Belt."
"Yinsers" is sometimes used by those who are disconnected from parts of the US in which "yins" is used as a second person plural, similar to "
ya'll," and therefore many of the aforementioned stereotypes are made. The term
may also be used by groups attempting to disassociate themselves from the status of working class.
