In Appalachian and Southern speech, "fixin’ my hair" (commonly written "fixing hair") means getting one’s hair ready or styled - brushing, curling, or otherwise preparing it. It reflects the broader Southern use of "fix" or "fixin’" to mean "prepare" rather than "repair." (See also Fixin’.)
People around here have always said 'fixin’ my hair' and I didn't know it was odd 'til I growed up.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
People around here have always said 'fixin’ my hair' and I didn't know it was odd 'til I growed up.
Pronunciation
[FIX-in hayr]
Meaning & Usage
- Preparing or styling one’s hair (verb phrase/dialect)
Before going out
Mae:
Y’all ready yet?
Earl:
Hang on - she’s fixin’ her hair.
- Example of the broader Southern use of ‘fixin’ (verb phrase)
Explaining the meaning
Mae:
Why say fixin’ instead of doin’?
Earl:
It’s just how we talk - fixin’ hair, fixin’ supper, fixin’ to leave.
variations: fixing hair
★ "Fixin’ hair" shows how Southerners use "fix" to mean "prepare." Outsiders sometimes misinterpret it as "repairing" hair, but it simply means "getting ready." ★
Origin and Etymology
From the Scotch-Irish influenced Southern English use of "fix" to mean "prepare" or "get ready." In the hills this extended naturally to everyday tasks like cooking or grooming - hence "fixin’ hair."
Usage Notes
Still very common in Southern/Appalachian speech. This usage of "fixin’" has become a hallmark of regional identity, much like "y’all."
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "fixin’ my hair." Also "fixin’ to do my hair."
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...