Catchin’
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "catchin’" means contagious. If a sickness is "catchin’," you can easily pick it up from someone.
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Hillbilly Dude Says...
I was just talkin' to a friend recently and 'catchin’' is the only word I could think of. I'd say it's more country, and a little more old timers. Hillbilly Dude Says...
I was just talkin' to a friend recently and 'catchin’' is the only word I could think of. I'd say it's more country, and a little more old timers. Pronunciation
[KATCH-in] /ˈkætʃɪn/
Meaning & Usage
- Contagious; easily spread (adjective)
Mae:
You oughta stay home.
You oughta stay home.
Earl:
Yeah-this cough’s catchin’.
Yeah-this cough’s catchin’.- Figurative: easily picked up by others (adjective)
Mae:
These kids got the giggles.
These kids got the giggles.
Earl:
Laughter’s catchin’ today.
Laughter’s catchin’ today.variations: contagious, infectious, going around
★ This is an older English use of "catching" that Southern/Appalachian speech kept alive. If you want to sound regionally true, use "catchin’" for illnesses ("That rash is catchin’."). ★
Origin and Etymology
Most common in the South and South Midland, this usage carries on an older British English sense where "catching" meant "contagious."
Usage Notes
Still common among older speakers and in rural communities. Younger speakers may prefer "contagious," but "catchin’" remains readily understood across the region.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it natural: drop the "g" → "catchin’." Often paired with "mighty" or "right smart": "It’s mighty catchin’."