hillbilly
A rural Appalachian term that can be insult, compliment, or badge of honor - depending on who’s saying it and why. If you ain't from the city, chances are you may be considered a ol' hillbilly.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I refer to myself as a 'hillbilly' fairly often. 'Redneck' is a little different, but it's nuanced. Pronunciation
[HILL-bil-ee]
Meaning & Usage
- A person from a rural, mountainous area
Elmer:
They called me a hillbilly at the gas station.
They called me a hillbilly at the gas station.
Estel:
Shoot, that’s a compliment where we’re from.
Shoot, that’s a compliment where we’re from.- Someone proud of their rural roots
Elmer:
You still livin’ in the city?
You still livin’ in the city?
Estel:
Nope, came back home. I’m a hillbilly and I like it.
Nope, came back home. I’m a hillbilly and I like it.- Old-time country music fan
Elmer:
This here’s the best hillbilly band I ever heard.
This here’s the best hillbilly band I ever heard.
Estel:
You ain’t wrong.
You ain’t wrong.other spellings: hillbillies
★ If you call yourself a hillbilly, you’re likely wearing it as a badge of honor - not an insult. ★
Origin
Possibly from Scottish and Irish settlers in the hills ("billy" meaning man), or from political movements tied to rural mountain life. First recorded in the early 20th century.
Notes
Some outsiders use "hillbilly" as a stereotype, but many in Appalachia reclaim it proudly as part of their identity.