110+ Funny Hillbilly Isms & Southern Sayings

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Weird & wacky redneck lingo
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A hillbilly “ism” is a popular word, phrase, or saying used by hillbillies, rednecks, and Southerners in general. If you’re from the South, you’ve probably heard most or all of these phrases all your life, but if you’re not, some of them may sound a little funny or strange. With help from linguistics researcher and communication educator Lizzy Hanks, we’ve compiled a list of more than 100 popular Hillbilly isms and sayings so you’ll fit right in the next time you go down South.

Funny Hillbilly & Redneck Sayings

Linguistics researcher and communication educator Lizzy Hanks says some popular Southern sayings are “fixin’ to,” “I reckon,” and “over yonder.” Some other common hillybilly phrases include:

  • Madder than a wet hen: being extremely angry
  • More than Carter’s got little pills: having a large amount of something
  • Knee high to a grasshopper: something very small
  • Don’t get your knickers in a knot: don’t get upset or worried
Section 1 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Expressing Feelings

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  1. Step 1 Bless your heart
    “Bless your heart” may sound like a sweet sentiment, but if you’re in the South, that’s not always the case. This phrase can be used to express sincere sympathy for someone, explains Hanks, but it’s also a common way to say that someone is hopeless but adorable, or to passive-aggressively imply that they’re just foolish.[1]
    • Genuine: “Bless your heart. I’m so sorry you’ve had such a rough day.”
    • Passive-aggressive: “Well, bless your heart. You really need to get your money back from that hair stylist.”
    • Note: Hanks says that when “bless your heart” is used sincerely to express pity or empathy, it’s typically referring to something out of the person’s control. For instance, you might say, “Bless her heart. It’s not her fault her mother didn’t raise her right.”[2]

    Meet the wikiHow Expert

    Lizzy Hanks is a linguistics researcher and communication educator. She also has 6 years of previous experience teaching English as a second language.

  2. 2
    Madder than a wet hen “Madder than a wet hen” is a common Southern idiom that means someone is extremely angry or upset, especially after a sudden, unpleasant experience. The expression comes from the practice of farmers dunking broody hens in cold water to shock them out of their nesting behavior.[3]
    • “I waited hours for that appointment, and they cancelled at the last minute. Lord, I was madder than a wet hen!”
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  3. 3
    If I had my druthers “If I had my druthers” is another way of saying “If I had things my way…” The word “druthers” comes from a shortened version of “I’d rather,” which sounds like “druther” when spoken with a Southern accent.[4]
    • “If I had my druthers, I’d stay home tonight.”
  4. 4
    Full as a tick “Full as a tick” simply means you’ve eaten so much good Southern food that you’re stuffed. The expression comes from the fact that ticks become swollen and engorged after feeding on blood, and often become so bloated they can’t move.[5]
    • “Nanna, your banana pudding was so good. I’m full as a tick now.”
  5. 5
    Worn slap out “Worn slap out” is a redneck way of saying you’re totally exhausted. It’s both a physical and a mental state, and many Southerners say it after spending a long day out in the hot Southern summer.[6]
    • “Whew, what a day. I’m worn slap out.”
  6. 6
    Hankering If you’ve got a hankering for something, it means you’re in the mood for it. This is mostly used when you have a craving for a certain food, but it can sometimes be applied to other things, like activities you want to do.[7]
    • “I’ve got a hankering for a fried bologna sandwich.”
  7. 7
    Tore up If you’re “tore up” about something, it means you’re really upset or worried about a certain situation. The situation can be serious or minor but the person in question is usually dramatically upset.
    • “My daughter was all tore up about getting a bad grade on that test. Bless her heart.”
  8. 8
    Might could This is simply a Southern way of saying you might be able and/or willing to do something. It’s a polite way to suggest something without being too insistent, or to let someone know something is possible but not guaranteed.[8]
    • “You might could fit your truck into that spot, but it’s gonna be tight.”
  9. 9
    Happy as a pig in mud “Happy as a pig in mud” is an expression that implies someone is really happy about something. The idea is that pigs are really happy when they’re rolling around in the mud.[9]
    • “She’s happy as a pig in mud now that she’s engaged.”
  10. 10
    I don’t have a dog in this fight “I don’t have a dog in this fight” is another way of saying you’re not concerned or affected by the outcome of a situation. Southerners often use this phrase as a way of saying “Leave me out of it” when someone tries to pull them into some drama.[10] This comes from the idea that if two dogs are fighting and neither one is yours, it doesn’t matter to you which one wins.
    • “Look, I don’t have a dog in this fight. I just wanna do my work and go home.”
  11. 11
    Mad as a hornet Like “madder than a wet hen,” “mad as a hornet” is simply another way of saying you’ve very angry about something. This phrase compares a person’s anger to the aggressive, stinging nature of a hornet, a wasp known for its painful and persistent attacks.[11]
    • “My dad’s gonna be mad as a hornet when he finds out I broke that window.”
  12. 12
    So full I’m about to pop This phrase is similar to “full as a tick,” as it’s another way of saying you’ve eaten too much. The idea is that you’ve eaten so much that your stomach feels like it’s going to burst.[12]
    • “Lord, I’m gonna have to unbutton my jeans because I’m so full I’m about to pop.”
  13. 13
    Fly off the handle Saying you’re going to “fly off the handle” means you’re about to lose your temper and become very angry. The phrase may be derived from a loose axe head flying off the handle when swung heavily and quickly.[13]
    • “He always flies off the handle when people disagree with him.”
  14. 14
    Ain’t no According to Hanks, “ain’t no” is a popular Southern saying.[14] “Ain’t” roughly means “is not” or “has not,” and when it’s combined with “no,” it’s just a way to emphasize something negative.
    • “Ain’t no way he’s happy about losing. He’s been practicing for the game for weeks.”
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Section 2 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Expressing Time & Place

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  1. Step 1 Fixin’ to
    “Fixin’ to” is another way of saying “going to” or “getting ready to,” says Hanks.[15] It means you’re intending to do something in the future, and doesn’t actually have anything to do with fixing an object—unless you’re fixin’ to fix it.[16]
    • “I’m fixin’ to go to the store. You need anything?”
    • “Fixin’ to” is also popular cowboy and Western slang.
  2. 2
    Done According to Hanks, when “done” is added to another verb in the past tense, it becomes a way to talk about the past.[17] For instance, you might say that you “done moved on” after breaking up with the person you were casually dating. In this sense, “done” takes the place of “has” or “have” in the sentence.
    • “Oh no, I done missed the turn! I’m gonna have to turn the whole car around.”
  3. 3
    Over yonder “Over yonder” is another popular Southern phrase, agrees Hanks.[18] It simply means “over there.”[19] It can be any direction and any distance, though it typically refers to a location that’s in sight but not immediately close. You may hear someone say “over yonder” when giving directions.
    • “Oh, she lives over yonder on the other side of hill.”
  4. 4
    ‘Til the cows come home “‘Til the cows come home” is a phrase used to indicate a long, indefinite period of time. The idea is that cows tend to wander around slowly and only come back when it’s feeding time.[20]
    • “They’re gonna be arguing about this ‘til the cows come home.”
  5. 5
    Let me let you go “Let me let you go” is a somewhat redundant phrase that means “I’m going to let you go.” Southerns often say this after they’ve been chatting on the phone for a while. It’s often a more polite way of saying you’re ready to hang up.
    • “Well, let me let you go. I’m sure you’re busy.”
  6. 6
    Carry me to… “Carry me to…” doesn’t mean you’re literally asking to be carried. In this case, carry means “take.” If you’re carrying someone somewhere, it means you’re providing them transportation.[21]
    • “My son’s gonna carry me to the store later.”
  7. 7
    A month of Sundays “A month of Sundays” is another way of saying “a long time.” Literally, a month of Sundays would be 30 weeks, but this expression is used as a hyperbole to say you haven’t seen someone in a while.[22]
    • “How have you been? I haven’t seen you in a month of Sundays!”
  8. 8
    Knee high to a grasshopper “Knee high to a grasshopper” is another way of saying “very young and small.” In other words, if you haven’t seen someone since they were knee high to a grasshopper, it means you haven’t seen them since they were little.[23]
    • “My, my, you’ve gotten so tall! Last time I saw you, you were knee high to a grasshopper.”
  9. 9
    Devil’s beating his wife The phrase “the devil’s beating his wife” refers to a specific period when it’s raining while the sun is shining, also known as a sunshower. The folklore behind the phrase suggests that the devil is angry at God for creating such a beautiful day, and the rain is his wife’s tears.[24]
    • “Oh, look. It’s raining while the sun’s out. I guess the devil’s beating his wife.”
  10. 10
    Off like a herd of turtles “Off like a herd of turtles” is a humorous way to refer to a group of people moving very slowly or something that’s off to a slow start. The phrase comes from the fact that turtles move very slowly.[25]
    • “Let’s pick up the pace, people! Y’all are off like a herd of turtles.”
  11. 11
    Quicker than corn through a goose “Quicker than corn through a goose” is a way of saying something or someone was fast. The phrase might come from the idea that geese eat corn quickly and the corn also moves through their digestive system quickly.
    • “I’ve never seen anyone run that fast in my life. He was quicker than corn through a goose.”
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Section 3 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Expressing Value

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  1. Step 1 Hill of beans
    In the South, a hill of beans is essentially a unit of measurement and refers to something of little value. Comparing something to a hill of beans often means it’s worthless or insignificant.[26]
    • “That old car ain’t worth a hill of beans.”
  2. 2
    More than Carter’s got little pills “More than Carter’s got little pills” is a way of saying someone has a large amount of something, whether that’s money, problems, or ideas. The phrase comes from a historical patent medicine called Carter’s Little Liver Pills.[27]
    • “She’s got more excuses than Carter’s got little pills.”
  3. 3
    No bigger than a minnow in a fishing pond Saying something is “no bigger than a minnow in a fishing pond” is another way of saying it’s tiny or insignificant. This is because minnows are very small fish that seem even smaller when compared to larger fish, like catfish.
    • “Last time I saw you, you were no bigger than a minnow in a fishing pond.”
  4. 4
    You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear “You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear” means you can’t make something good or high quality out of something bad or poor quality. The phrase is often used to describe how certain things or people cannot be significantly improved due to their fundamental nature.[28]
    • “She tried to fix up the old house, but you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.”
  5. 5
    Plumb This word has nothing to do with plumbing; in the South, “plumb” is another way of saying “completely” or “totally.” It’s often used as part of the phrase “plumb tired,” which means really tired.[29]
    • “Shoot, I’m plumb tired after working out in the sun all day.”
  6. 6
    Hotter than blazes “Hotter than blazes” is a common Southern idiom that means something is extremely hot. It’s often used to refer to the extremely high temperatures the South experiences in the summer.
    • “Man, what temperature is it? It’s hotter than blazes out here!”
  7. 7
    Piddlin’ “Piddlin’” is a redneck way of saying something is insignificant or trivial. When used as a noun or adjective, a piddlin’ is a small amount that isn’t worth bothering with. When used as a verb, piddlin’ means wasting time and not doing anything important.[30]
    • Used as a verb: “Look at him piddlin’ around when he’s supposed to be mowing the yard.”
    • Used as an adjective: “They were arguing over piddlin’ amounts of money.”
  8. 8
    You’re making a mountain out of a molehill To “make a mountain out of a molehill” means to turn a small issue into a big one. Southerners often used this phrase when someone is being overdramatic about a given situation.[31]
    • “You should’ve seen the way she was carrying on. She always makes a mountain out of a molehill.”
  9. 9
    Can’t cut the mustard If someone or something “can’t cut the mustard,” it means they can’t meet expectations or the required standards. Mustard plants can grow up to 6 ft tall and used to be cut by hand with scythes, which was very hard work.[32]
    • “He always tries his hardest, but he just can’t cut the mustard.”
  10. 10
    More than you can shake a stick at “More than you can shake a stick at” is a way of saying there’s a large quantity of something, often more than you could count or manage.[33] The exact origins of the phrase are unknown, but it could come from the idea of counting livestock by pointing a stick at them.
    • “She has more troubles than you can shake a stick at.”
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Section 4 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Expressing Love & Beauty

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  1. Step 1 Pretty as a peach
    “Pretty as a peach” is a way of saying someone or something is very attractive, lovely, or pleasing. The phrase is mostly used to describe young women, but can be used to describe anyone. The phrase likely comes from the fact that many Southern states, like Georgia, are known for their peaches.[34]
    • “Why, you look pretty as a peach in that dress!”
  2. 2
    Gimme some sugar “Gimme some sugar” is an affectionate Southern phrase that means “give me a kiss” or “give me a hug.” This is a common way for older people to greet their younger relatives. The idea is that kisses are sweet like sugar.[35]
    • “Come give your grandma some sugar! I sure have missed you!”
  3. 3
    Gussied up If someone is “gussied up,” it means they’re dressed up in a fancy or fashionable outfit, or that they’re wearing something nicer than their usual outfits. The phrase can also be used to describe fancy embellishments or decorations.[36]
    • “Well, where are you going all gussied up like that?”
  4. 4
    Hug your neck Saying you want to “hug someone’s neck” is another way of saying you want to give them a big hug. More generally, it can also mean you want to show affection to someone. This phrase is often used among family members or close friends.
    • “I miss you so much! I can’t wait to hug your neck the next time I see you.”
  5. 5
    Dolled up like a pecan pie at a county fair “Dolled up like a pecan pie at a county fair” means someone is dressed up and showing off, likely for a special occasion. The phrase is often shortened to simply “dolled up.” The idea is that pecan pies are often displayed for judging at county fairs.
    • “Why, look at you! You’re all dolled up like a pecan pie at a county fair!”
  6. 6
    The bee’s knees Saying something is “the bee’s knees” is a way of saying it’s particularly good, impressive, or well-liked.[37] It’s a somewhat nonsensical phrase that likely emerged in the 1920s.
    • “Your red velvet cake is the bee’s knees! It’s the best I’ve ever had.”
  7. 7
    I love you a bushel and a peck If you say you love someone “a bushel and a peck,” it simply means you love them a lot. A bushel and a peck are dry volume measurements for agricultural goods, like grain.[38]
    • “Being with you makes me so happy. I love you a bushel and a peck!”
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Section 5 of 9:

Hillbilly Exclamations & Expressions of Surprise

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  1. Step 1 Hold your horses
    “Hold your horses” is a way of telling someone to wait or slow down. Historically, the phrase relates to horse riding or horse-drawn carriages, when people would literally stop their horses if they needed to wait.[39]
    • “Hold your horses! You’re getting a little ahead of yourself.”
  2. 2
    Well, I declare “Well, I declare” is a general exclamation that could be used when you’re surprised, excited, or vexed. It’s mostly used when you’re shocked by something for better or worse.[40]
    • “Well, I do declare! Isn’t that exciting?”
  3. 3
    As all get out “As all get out” is a way of describing something to the highest degree. It loosely translates to “extremely,” so if you said you were “tired as all get out,” it would mean you were extremely tired.[41]
    • “She’s funny as all get out! I laugh any time she’s around.”
  4. 4
    Heavens to Betsy “Heavens to Betsy” is an old-fashioned phrase similar to “good gracious” or “good heavens.” It’s an exclamation used to express almost any emotion, from excitement to anger.[42]
    • “Heavens to Betsy, that raccoon got in the trash again!”
    • “Heavens to Betsy” is also a popular Midwesternism.
  5. 5
    Hush your mouth “Hush your mouth” is a (somewhat) more polite way of telling someone to be quiet. It can be used to ask someone to stop talking in general or as a response to gossip or spreading rumors.[43]
    • “Hush your mouth! The church service is about to start.”
  6. 6
    Well, I s’wanee “Well, I s’wanee” is another way of saying “Well, I swear.” It is used to express surprise or strong emotion and is an alternative to swearing. This phrase may be inspired by the Southern Suwannee River or the town of Sewanee, Tennessee, though some sources say it’s a shortened version of “I shall warrant.”[44]
    • “Well, I s’wanee! That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.”
  7. 7
    I’ll tell you what “I’ll tell you what” is often used to introduce a suggestion or to emphasize a statement.[45] When used for emphasis, the person who said “I’ll tell you what” often won’t tell you anything more at all. The phrase can also be used for striking a bargain, sharing a strong opinion, or offering a piece of advice you may or may not want to hear.
    • As a suggestion: “I’ll tell you what, I’ll let you borrow my car if you fill it up with gas.”
    • For emphasis: “I’ll tell you what, I’m not looking forward to standing up in court tomorrow.”
  8. 8
    Well, butter my backside and call me a biscuit This is a humorous way of showing surprise or astonishment. It’s often used after hearing something incredibly unbelievable or out of the ordinary.[46]
    • “Well, butter my backside and call me a biscuit! I can’t believe you won the contest!”
  9. 9
    I reckon “I reckon” is another way of saying “I guess,” says Hanks.[47] It’s an informal way of expressing an opinion or a guess. Though “reckon” comes from British English, in the United States, it’s closely associated with the South.[48]
    • “My knees are hurting. I reckon it’s about to rain.”
  10. 10
    Oh, my stars “Oh, my stars” is another British phrase adopted by Southerners, derived from the phrase “Oh, my stars and garters.” It’s a general exclamation used to express surprise, amazement, or astonishment, and is a milder way of saying “Oh my God.”[49]
    • “Oh, my stars! What a beautiful sunset!”
  11. 11
    It’ll make you wanna slap your mama “It’ll make you wanna slap your mama” is a Southern saying used to express how good something is, especially food. Though it sounds violent, this is a positive expression.[50]
    • “This pie is so good it’ll make you wanna slap your mama!”
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Section 6 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Describing People

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  1. Step 1 Too big for his britches
    If someone is “too big for their britches,” it means they think really highly of themselves in a conceited manner. The idea is that a person becomes so “swollen” with conceit that their pants no longer fit.[51]
    • “Ever since he got that fancy job, he’s been too big for his britches.”
  2. 2
    They’ve got gumption Saying someone has “gumption” means they’ve got spirit, courage, or initiative. Someone who has gumption typically isn’t afraid to stand up for themselves, and this is often a high compliment from Southerners.[52]
    • “She had the gumption to ask for a raise.”
  3. 3
    A rooster one day and a feather duster the next The phrase “A rooster one day and a feather duster the next” is a popular hillbilly ism that warns people that success and status are often temporary and unpredictable. It advises that you shouldn’t take success for granted or become too arrogant because you could lose it all tomorrow.
    • “Just don’t go getting a big head. You could be a rooster today and a feather duster tomorrow.”
  4. 4
    Quit being ugly The phrase “quit being ugly” has nothing to do with physical appearance. It’s actually a way of telling someone to stop being rude or misbehaving. Southern parents often say this to their kids when they’re acting up in public.[53]
    • “Quit being ugly or we won’t go to the park this afternoon.”
  5. 5
    He thinks the sun comes up just to hear him crow This phrase is another way of saying someone thinks very highly of themselves. The person in question is cocky and thinks everyone wants to hear what they have to say, even if that isn’t true. The phrase humorously suggests that a rooster thinks he’s so important that he causes the sun to rise.[54]
    • “Have you met the new guy yet? I can’t stand him. He thinks the sun comes up just to hear him crow.”
  6. 6
    Livin’ in high cotton To “live in high cotton” means to experience a period of great success. It’s another way of saying “life is good.” Historically, cotton was an important crop in the South, and if it grew high, it promised a good crop and a good profit.[55]
    • “He’s been livin’ in high cotton ever since he started his own business.”
  7. 7
    The porch light’s on, but no one’s home “The porch light’s on, but no one’s home” is an idiom that gently suggests someone isn’t very smart. It’s often used to describe people who are slow to understand things or are easily confused.[56]
    • “That poor girl never knows what’s going on. The porch light’s on, but nobody’s home.”
  8. 8
    He ain’t got the sense God gave a goose “He ain’t got the sense God gave a goose” is a somewhat nice way of saying someone is ignorant or isn’t using their brain. It implies a person lacks common sense and, in other words, is dumber than a goose.[57]
    • “My son tried to put metal in the microwave. That boy ain’t got the sense God gave a goose.”
  9. 9
    Pretty is as pretty does “Pretty is as pretty does” is a proverb that means true beauty comes from your actions, not your appearance. In other words, what matters is on the inside, not the outside. Southerners often use this phrase to remind children to be kind.
    • “Have a good day at school today, and remember—pretty is as pretty does.”
  10. 10
    He didn’t have nothin’ under his hat but hair If someone has “nothing under their hat but hair,” it’s implying they don’t have any brains and aren’t very smart. Like many Southern insults, this is a gentler way of calling someone dumb than saying it outright.
    • “I just met someone who didn’t know Alaska was a state. There must be nothin’ under his hat but hair.”
  11. 11
    Highfalutin “Highfalutin” is another word for “pretentious” or “pompous.”[58] It’s used as an insult to describe someone who thinks they’re more important than they really are, and is essentially another way of saying they’re too big for their britches.
    • “I don’t want to be around those highfalutin’ people.”
  12. 12
    Old as Methuselah “Old as Methuselah” as a Biblical idiom that means someone or something is very old. The phrase is often used humorously. In the Bible, Methuselah, the grandfather of Noah, was reported to have lived to be 969 years old.[59]
    • “I’m going to be as old as Methuselah waiting for this bus.”
  13. 13
    She’s so stuck up, she’d drown in a rainstorm This phrase describes someone who is very conceited and looks down on others with arrogance. It evokes the image of someone sticking their nose so high in the air that they’d drown if it rained.[60]
    • “Did you see the way she looked at me? She’s so stuck up, she’d drown in a rainstorm.”
  14. 14
    Lost as last year’s Easter egg This is another way of saying someone has no idea what’s going on. The hilarious phrase comes from the fact that many hidden Easter eggs aren’t found until the next year’s egg hunt.[61]
    • “That test was so hard. I was as lost as last year’s Easter egg.”
  15. 15
    Aren’t you precious Like “bless your heart,” the phrase “aren’t you precious” can be either genuine or an insult in disguise. Southerners may use the phrase sincerely when talking to a child, but they may also use it to hint that someone is unintelligent or annoying.[62]
    • Genuine: “Aw, look at your adorable little dress! Aren’t you precious?”
    • Insult: “You really thought that would work? Aren’t you precious?”
  16. 16
    Give him two nickels for a dime, and he’ll think he’s rich This hillbilly insult is another way of saying someone is dumb, naive, or foolish. Both a dime and two nickels are worth the same amount, but a foolish person might think they had more money if they had two coins instead of one.[63]
    • “Well, we always knew he wasn’t the brightest. Give him two nickels for a dime, and he’ll think he’s rich.”
  17. 17
    She could start an argument in an empty house If someone could “start an argument in an empty house,” it means they’re inherently argumentative and prone to causing conflict. The person may enjoy starting drama and could hypothetically start an argument when no one else is involved.[64]
    • “I swear, it’s always something with her. She could start an argument in an empty house.”
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Section 7 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms About Life

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  1. Step 1 If the Good Lord’s willing and the creek don’t rise
    This phrase means you have strong intentions to do something as long as no major, unexpected event prevents it. It likely originated in Appalachia, where extreme rainfall could interrupt travel in isolated and rural areas.[65]
    • “Yeah, we’ll be there as long as the Good Lord’s willing and the creek don’t rise.”
  2. 2
    Pot calling the kettle black “The pot calling the kettle black” is another way of calling someone out for hypocrisy when they criticize someone for having a fault they also possess. Historically, both pots and kettles would be blackened with soot from being used over a fire.[66]
    • “She got mad at me for being late as if she’s not late all the time. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.”
  3. 3
    There’s not a pot too crooked that a lid won’t fit Saying “There’s not a pot too crooked that a lid won’t fit” is another way of saying there’s someone out there for everyone, no matter how eccentric or “flawed” they may seem.[67]
    • “She’s upset that she’s single while all her friends are getting married, but I told her there’s not a pot too crooked that a lid won’t fit. She’ll find her person someday.”
  4. 4
    Life is simpler when you plow around the stump This Southern adage is another way of saying that it’s often easier and more practical to avoid a problem than trying to overcome it directly. Instead of getting hung up on something out of your control, it’s better to move on with life.
    • “I know you like to face your problems head-on, but remember, life is simpler when you plow around the stump.”
  5. 5
    Keep skunks, bankers, and politicians at a distance This piece of hillbilly advice suggests that bankers and politicians aren’t to be trusted and are best avoided, just like you’d keep your distance from a skunk to avoid getting sprayed.
    • “The fella running for mayor tried knocking on my door, but I keep skunks, bankers, and politicians at a distance.”
  6. 6
    If you lie down with dogs, you’ll get up with fleas “If you like down with dogs, you’ll get up with fleas” is a Southern way of warning someone about the company they keep. If you associate with someone with a bad reputation or habits, they’ll rub off on you.[68]
    • “I don’t like those new friends of his. You know what they say. If you lie down with dogs, you’ll get up with fleas.”
  7. 7
    Don’t buy a pig in a poke “Don’t buy a pig in a poke” is a Southern idiom that advises against accepting an offer or deal without thoroughly doing research. The phrase comes from an old scam where merchants would try to tell people a worthless animal in a “poke” (a sack) instead of the more valuable pig they believed they were buying.[69]
    • “That sounds too good to be true. Don’t buy a pig in a poke.”
  8. 8
    Don’t put all your eggs in one basket “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” is a common way of warning against basing all your success or resources around one endeavor. If you put all your eggs in one basket and drop it, there’s a good chance all your eggs will be broken.[70]
    • “My son said he was only applying to one college he really wants to go to. I told him not to put all his eggs in one basket and convinced him to look up some safety schools.”
  9. 9
    Never look a gift horse in the mouth “Never look a gift horse in the mouth” is an idiom that means you should be grateful for a gift and not be critical of it.[71] The phrase originates from the practice of checking a horse’s teeth to determine its age and health.
    • “My granddad offered to sell me his old car for really cheap. I’m not gonna look a gift horse in the mouth.”
  10. 10
    People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones The saying “People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones” means that you shouldn’t criticize others when you have similar faults of your own. The idea is that if someone were to throw a stone at a glass house, it would shatter.[72]
    • “He told me I drive too fast, as if he didn’t get a speeding ticket last week. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.”
  11. 11
    Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater This idiom advises against mistakenly discarding something valuable when trying to get rid of something unwanted.[73] It likely originated in colonial times when people would have to empty dirty bathwater.
    • “I know you’re mad at her now, but she’s been a good friend. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.”
  12. 12
    The squeaky wheel gets the grease “The squeaky wheel gets the grease” is another way of saying that the most noticeable problem (or the loudest complainer) will receive the most attention and the quickest solution.[74]
    • “If you have a problem with something, you should speak up. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.”
  13. 13
    You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar “You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar” means that being kind and polite is more effective for getting what you want than being rude, negative, or aggressive.[75]
    • “Remember to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ when you ask for something. You’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.”
  14. 14
    Don’t cry over spilled milk “Don’t cry over spilled milk” is an idiom that means you shouldn’t get upset over something that has already happened and cannot be changed. It encourages people to move on rather than dwelling on the past.[76]
    • “I know you wanted an A on the test, but a B is still good! Don’t cry over spilled milk. You’ll do better next time.”
  15. 15
    You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink This popular proverb is another way of saying you can give someone an opportunity, but you can’t force them to take it. The final decision is solely up to them, no matter how favorable the conditions.[77]
    • “I offered to help him out, but he refused. Oh, well. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.”
  16. 16
    Don’t count your chickens before they’ve hatched “Don’t count your chickens before they’ve hatched” is a common proverb that advises against assuming success before something is certain. Not all eggs will hatch into chickens, just like not all hoped-for outcomes will come true.[78]
    • “I know you think you have this promotion in the bag, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
  17. 17
    A watched pot never boils “A watched pot never boils” means that time seems to pass slowly when you’re anxiously waiting for something to happen. If you focus intently on a pot while boiling water, it will seem like the process is taking forever.[79]
    • “Quit checking the clock. A watched pot never boils.”
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Section 8 of 9:

Hillbilly Isms Expressing Problems

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  1. Step 1 Can’t never could
    “Can’t never could” is a hillbilly ism that means if you think you can’t do something, you won’t be able to. It encourages a can-do attitude and asserts that negativity will prevent any possibility of success.[80]
    • “Sometimes I think I’ll never be able to fix this truck, but then I remember can’t never could do anything.”
  2. 2
    That’s cattywampus “Cattywampus” is another way of saying something is askew or not lined up correctly. It can also refer to something that’s diagonal or catty-cornered or situations that are messy and chaotic.[81]
    • “You need to fix that chair. It’s all cattywampus.”
  3. 3
    Don’t get your knickers in a knot “Don’t get your knickers in a knot” is an idiom that means don’t get upset or worried. Southerners often say this to calm someone down and prevent them from overreacting to a situation.[82]
    • “Oh, don’t get your knickers in a knot! I’ll take care of it.”
  4. 4
    It’s blowin’ up a storm If it’s “blowin’ up a storm” it usually means it’s really windy and cloudy outside. Southerners often say this when they know bad weather is on the way.[83]
    • “You better get home soon. It’s blowin’ up a storm.”
  5. 5
    Hissy fit “Hissy fit” is another word for a tantrum, or a sudden outburst of uncontrolled (and often silly) anger.[84] Many Southerners use the word to refer to small children’s outbursts, though they may also use it when an adult is acting particularly childish.
    • “I wouldn’t buy her a new doll, and now she’s throwing a hissy fit.”
  6. 6
    Three sheets to the wind If someone is “three sheets to the wind,” it means they’re drunk. A sheet is the line that controls the sails on a ship, and if the line is not secured, the sail flops around and the ship loses control, much like a person who’s had too much to drink.[85]
    • “You better carry him home. He’s three sheets to the wind.”
  7. 7
    Preachin’ to the choir To “preach to the choir” means you’re speaking for or against something to people who already agree with you. In church, preachers address the congregation, not the choir.[86]
    • “You’re preachin’ to the choir, bud. I feel the same way.”
  8. 8
    Drunker than Cooter Brown “Drunker than Cooter Brown” is a Southern expression that means someone is very drunk. The saying originates from a Civil War legend that claims a man named Cooter Brown deliberately stayed drunk to avoid being drafted into either the Confederate or the Union army because he had family on both sides of the Mason-Dixon line.[87]
    • “Boy, you'd better stop drinking. You’re drunker than Cooter Brown already.”
  9. 9
    It’ll all come out in the wash “It’ll all come out in the wash” is an encouraging phrase that means a problem isn’t serious and will be solved in the future. Alternatively, it can also mean that the truth will eventually be revealed.[88]
    • “Don’t worry about it. It’ll all come out in the wash.”
  10. 10
    This ain’t my first rodeo “This ain’t my first rodeo” is a popular idiom that means you know what you’re doing and have experience with a certain situation. It’s often used in response to someone underestimating your abilities or giving you condescending advice.[89]
    • “I know how to prepare for an interview. This ain’t my first rodeo.”
  11. 11
    That dog won’t hunt The phrase “that dog won’t hunt” means that an idea, argument, plan, or excuse is pointless, ineffective, or won’t work. It’s a metaphor for lazy hunting dogs that fail to do what’s expected of them.[90]
    • “That dog won’t hunt. Got any better ideas?”
  12. 12
    Barking up the wrong tree “Barking up the wrong tree” is a popular phrase used when someone is completely mistaken or wrong about something. The phrase comes from the mistake made by dogs when they believe they’ve chased their prey up a tree, but the prey may have escaped by leaping to another tree.[91]
    • “He accused me, but he’s barking up the wrong tree.”
  13. 13
    That dog’s barkin’ too close to the porch “That dog’s barkin’ too close to the porch” is another way of saying someone’s messing around where they shouldn’t be, like a dog who has no business being so close to someone’s house.
    • “That dog’s barkin’ too close to the porch. He needs to mind his business before he gets bit.”
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Section 9 of 9:

Other Funny Southern Sayings

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  1. Step 1 Colder than a witch’s tit in a brass bra
    This slightly vulgar idiom is a way of saying something is very cold. In folklore, witches were often depicted as being cold-blooded, and brass is known for its ability to retain cold.[92]
    • “Can we turn on the heat? It’s colder than a witch’s tit in a brass bra in here!”
  2. 2
    Busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest If you’ve been “busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest,” it means you’ve been really busy. A man with one leg would have to work twice as hard to kick as many butts.[93]
    • “I need a vacation! I’ve been busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest.”
  3. 3
    Fightin’ like two cats with their tails tied If two people are “fighting like two cats with their tails tied,” it means they’re in a really big argument or fight. The idea is that if you tied two cats’ tails together, they would fight because they can’t get away from each other.
    • “I don’t know why they don’t just break up. Those two fight like two cats with their tails tied.”
  4. 4
    Busier than a cat covering crap on a marble floor This phrase describes someone who is very busy or is trying to do something ineffectively. The idea is that a cat can’t cover its waste unless there is litter, so scratching a marble floor is pointless.[94]
    • “He’s busier than a cat covering crap on a marble floor trying to get that girl to go out with him.”
  5. 5
    My cow died last night, so I don’t need your bull This phrase has a couple different meanings. It can be a sarcastic way of telling someone to cut the (bull)crap, or a humorous way of letting someone know you’ll no longer need their help with something.
    • “Don’t even start with me. My cow died last night, so I don’t need your bull.”
  6. 6
    Finer than a frog’s hair When you say someone or something is “finer than a frog’s hair,” it means they’re very fine or excellent. Because frogs don’t have hair, something would have to be very fine to be finer (or thinner) than a frog’s hair.[95]
    • “I’m feeling finer than a frog’s hair after that nap.”
  7. 7
    My eyeballs are floating “My eyeballs are floating” is a more polite way to say you really need to pee. It may sound a bit gross, but the idea is that your body is so full of urine that it’s causing your eyes to float. Some people also say “My back teeth are floating” as an alternative.[96]
    • “I shouldn’t have drunk all that Coke. My eyeballs are floating.”
  8. 8
    Busy as a cat on a hot tin roof The phrase “busy as a cat on a hot tin roof” is used to describe someone who is extremely busy, restless, agitated, or nervous. It refers to someone who can’t keep still because a hot tin roof would burn a cat’s paws, so it would keep moving around.[97]
    • “She was as busy as a cat on a hot tin roof while she waited for the doctor to call with her test results.”
  9. 9
    Slicker than pig snot on a radiator Saying something is “slicker than pig snot on a radiator” is a way of saying it’s extremely slippery or greasy. This phrase is often used to describe harsh, icy conditions in the winter. Pigs are known to be very oily, so their snot would be especially slick after being melted by a radiator.
    • “Be careful! The porch is slicker than pig snot on a radiator.”
  10. 10
    Useless as a screen door on a submarine If someone or something is as “useless as a screen door on a submarine,” it means they’re completely useless. You wouldn’t put a screen door on a submarine because it would let the water in.[98]
    • “This car breaks down all the time. I swear, it’s as useless as a screen door on a submarine.”
  11. 11
    Sweating like a sinner in church This is another way of saying you’re sweating profusely. The idea is that a sinner would be very nervous and uncomfortable in church due to their actions, so they’d be sweating a lot.[99]
    • “Man, I am sweating like a sinner in church. This is the hottest day of the year so far!”
  12. 12
    If it had been a snake, it would’ve bit you This expression is mostly used when you overlook something obvious that was hidden in plain sight. The idea is that you were so close to the object you were looking for that it could’ve bitten you if it had been a snake.[100]
    • “I spent 30 minutes looking for the TV remote, and it was on the coffee table the entire time. If it had been a snake, it would’ve bit me!”
  13. 13
    There’s more than one way to skin a cat “There’s more than one way to skin a cat” is a proverb that means there’s more than one way to achieve a goal or reach an end. If you tried something that didn’t work out, someone may say this phrase to encourage you to look for alternative.[101]
    • “Why don’t you try thinking of it differently? After all, there’s more than one way to skin a cat.”
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About This Article

Lizzy Hanks
Co-authored by:
Lizzy Hanks
Linguistics Researcher and Communication Educator
This article was co-authored by Lizzy Hanks and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Lizzy Hanks is a linguistics researcher and communication educator based in Tampa, Florida. Lizzy uses corpus methods to research conversation, pragmatics, and vocabulary, and shares content on these topics on social media @lana_linguistics. She also has six years of previous experience teaching English as a second language in Austria, Thailand and the US. Lizzy is an Assistant Professor in the World Language Department at the University of South Florida.
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Updated: September 24, 2025
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Categories: English Dialects and Slang
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