Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Tennessee that showcase the state’s unique charm, humor, and Southern flair:
- “Bless your heart.”
This phrase can mean everything from genuine sympathy to a polite way of saying someone is a little clueless or has made a silly mistake—often with a friendly Southern smile. - “Hold your horses.”
A colorful way of telling someone to wait or slow down, often used when someone is getting ahead of themselves or rushing. - “Madder than a wet hen.”
If someone is very angry, Tennesseans might say they are “madder than a wet hen,” a vivid and funny simile referencing the behavior of hens when wet. - “Full as a tick.”
After a hearty Southern meal, it’s common to say you’re “full as a tick,” suggesting you’ve eaten so much it looks like you’re stuffed to bursting. - “Worn slap out.”
Meaning extremely tired or exhausted, “worn slap out” is a great way to describe being beyond beat after a long day or hot summer. - “I might could.”
This double modal phrase humorously means “maybe” or “possibly,” softening a suggestion or statement in classic Southern style. - “Happy as a pig in mud.”
If someone’s having a great time or feeling content, Tennessee folks say they’re “happy as a pig in mud,” a vivid and cheerful image. - “Over yonder.”
Indicating a vague direction or place a bit far away, “over yonder” is often accompanied by hand gestures pointing somewhere off in the distance. - “Fixin’ to.”
A very common Southern phrase meaning “about to” or “getting ready to,” as in “I’m fixin’ to go fishing.” - “Hotter than blue blazes.”
Used to describe extremely hot weather, this saying captures Tennessee’s often sweltering summers with a distinctive flair.
These sayings add flavor to everyday conversations in Tennessee and reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage and lighthearted humor.
Sources
(https://www.southernliving.com/southern-sayings-6534958)
(https://wild-hearted.com/nashville-quotes/)
(https://olered.com/nashville/articles/2019/nashville-phrases-glossary/)
(https://www.movoto.com/guide/tn/tennessee-words/)
(https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/tennessee.html)
