Southern Isms that Make No Sense to Northerners

I was born and raised in South Florida (which could be considered a smidge of the South.) However, I have lived in Southern states for more than 25 years. I feel as if the South has adopted me.

So, in my heart, I’m a southerner. In honor of Silly Sayings Day, I figured I would share our great southern isms that make no sense to Northerners. Why? It’s so much fun.

It’s all about the translation of the southern isms. Here are my favorites:

“Bless your heart” - It’s number one on my list. Listen, it works in every scenario and confuses northerners for sure. You witness someone drop a jar at the grocery store use “Bless your heart.” Some people think it is an insulting statement. I think it all depends on who says it and how they say it.

“Fit To Be Tied” – very mad. The neighbor I had in Helena, Alabama, would say this all the time. “Mary, I went to the doctor and I was fit to be tied.”

“That Dog Won’t Hunt” – a plan, idea, or concept that just will not work out.

“You Look Like Something the Cat Dragged In” – when someone is hungover, sick, or just in bad shape.

“’Til the Cows Come Home” – gone for a very long time.

“Knee High to a Grasshopper – a very young child.

“Pretty as a Peach” – you are so wonderful.

“Madder than a wet hen” – you are livid.

“Plum Tuckered Out” – overly tired.

“I Reckon” – you somewhat believe.

“If the Creek Don’t Rise” – simply frustrated.

“Fixin’ to” – about to start something.

“Hankerin’” – a desire.

“Piddlin’” – messing around.

“Buggy” – shopping cart.

“Tea” – gossip.

“Slap Ya Mama” – something delicious, or you have been shocked.

“Feeling froggy, the Jump” – make your move.

“Just fell off the Turnip Truck” – the person is ignorant.

If you have anything southern isms that I have missed, send me an email. - @MaryKRadio