Kentucky is home to a rich tradition of colorful language and witty expressions that reflect its Southern charm and Appalachian roots. These sayings often carry humor, wisdom, and local flavor, making Kentuckians some of the most creative and expressive speakers around. Here are 15 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in the Bluegrass State:
1. “Hotter than a goat’s butt in a pepper patch.”
Used to describe extremely hot weather, this phrase paints a bizarre yet vivid picture of summertime heat in Kentucky.
2. “I’ll be dad burned!”
A mild exclamation used when surprised or frustrated, it’s a polite way to say “I’ll be damned.”
3. “More nervous than a long-tailed cat in a room full of rockin’ chairs.”
This saying describes someone who is extremely anxious or jittery—an instant visual of a cat on edge.
4. “Fixin’ to”
A staple phrase indicating an intention or plan to do something soon, as in “I’m fixin’ to go to town.”
5. “Knee-high to a grasshopper.”
Used to describe someone very young or short, often said lovingly about kids who seem to grow too fast.
6. “Don’t get above your raisin’.”
A gentle warning to stay humble and remember your roots, often said with affectionate humor.
7. “He’s as crooked as a barrel of snakes.”
A colorful way to call someone deceitful or dishonest with a Southern twist.
8. “She’s squeaky as an old barn door.”
Refers to someone who gossips or talks a lot, usually in a humorous or affectionate tone.
9. “That boy can’t pour pee out of a boot with the instructions on the heel.”
A funny way to say someone isn’t very smart or capable of simple tasks.
10. “More nervous than a long-tailed cat in a room full of rockin’ chairs.”
A vivid image referring to extreme nervousness or anxiety.
11. “Sweatin’ like a sinner in church.”
Describes someone who is sweating profusely, usually from nervousness or hard work.
12. “Slower than molasses in December.”
Used to describe something or someone moving very slowly.
13. “If the creek don’t rise.”
A phrase meaning “if all goes well” or “if nothing unexpected happens.”
14. “Katy bar the door.”
A warning that trouble is coming or things are about to get wild.
15. “She’s got a bee in her bonnet.”
Used when someone is particularly angry or agitated about something.
Kentucky sayings are treasures of humor and culture. They give life to everyday conversations and reflect the down-home spirit of its people.
Sources
(https://drwmramsey.com/memories/Kentuckyisms.html)
(https://wheninyourstate.com/kentucky/12-phrases-only-a-true-kentuckian-says-and-understands/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Kentucky/comments/1iwvglq/what_are_some_of_your_favorite_sayings_youve/)
(https://wbkr.com/eastern-kentucky-slang-terms/)
(https://www.movoto.com/guide/ky/kentucky-words/)6
