mushmelon

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "mushmelon" means cantaloupe or muskmelon. It’s a folksy name for the orange-fleshed melon that shows up in summer gardens.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

I've only heard 'em called 'mushmelons' by my Dad all my life. But outside of the house... truth be told - canteloupes ain't a topic that comes up as often as you might think. So I'm not sure how widespread this is. But we eat 'em salted.

Pronunciation

[MUSH-meh-lun]

Meaning & Usage

- Cantaloupe / Muskmelon (noun)

Estel:

Want a big hunk o'this mushmelon?

Elmer:

Not without some salt.

Earl:

You'uns talkin' 'bout how the cannielopes came up real fine this year.

Estel:

Reckon they’re sweeter than store-bought mushmelons.

other spellings: mush melon, and muskmelon

★ If someone offers you "mushmelon," they’re talking about cantaloupe - not a new kind of melon. Expect it cold, sweet, and prolly salted. ★

Origin

"Mushmelon" is a dialect form of "muskmelon," the broader name for fragrant melons that includes cantaloupe. Over time, Appalachian and Southern speech dropped the middle consonant and blended it into "mushmelon."

Notes

"Mushmelon" usually means cantaloupe in Appalachia, though technically it can mean any muskmelon. It’s a summertime staple at farm stands, church suppers, and family tables.

Say It Like a Southerner

Play audio Say "mush" like the soft cornmeal dish, then "melon" with a lazy middle - "meh-lun." In mountain talk, it runs together quick: "mush-m’lon."

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Common Questions

What's the difference between a canteloupe and a mushmelon?

Not a thing. "Mushmelon" in Southern and Appalachian usage refers to the common cantaloupe.

Why is it called "mushmelon"?

It’s a shortened form of "muskmelon," said in the easy, blended style of mountain speech.

Do people still say "mushmelon"?

Absolutely, especially in rural areas where gardening and old names stick.

Is it a different kind of melon?

Nope - just a different name for the same fruit, usually cantaloupe.