papaw

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Papaw" is a common word for grandfather. It’s also used playfully to tease someone acting old before their time - like going to bed early or moving slow.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

I didn't know 'Papaw' was hillbilly 'til I was all growed up.

Pronunciation

[PAH-paw] or [PAP-aw] (varies by family)

Meaning & Usage

- A grandfather (noun, kinship term)

Mae:

Who’s that sittin’ on the porch?

Earl:

That’s my Papaw.

- A playful tease for someone acting old (noun, figurative use)

Mae:

I’m headin’ to bed.

Earl:

What? It’s only 8 o’clock, Papaw.

other spellings: Pawpaw, Pap, and Pappy

★ Don’t be surprised if younger folks get called "Papaw" as a joke. The word carries both respect for elders and lighthearted ribbing. ★

Origin

From older English and Scots-Irish forms of "Papa" and "Pa." In Appalachia and the South, it blended with "paw" to form "Papaw," which became one of the most common grandfather names. The teasing sense grew naturally as families and friends used "Papaw" to rib anyone acting elderly.

Notes

Still widely used in the South and Appalachia. Outside the region, "Papaw" may confuse folks since it’s also the name of a fruit tree, but in the hills it almost always means grandfather - unless it’s a playful jab at someone acting like one.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "Pap-aw" or "Paw-paw." Stress falls on the first syllable.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is Papaw the same as Grandpa?

Yes - it’s the regional name for grandfather.

How do you spell it - Papaw or Pawpaw?

Both are used, sometimes even within the same family.

Why call someone "Papaw" if they’re young?

As a joke - it teases them for acting like an old man (early bedtime, complaining about aches, moving slow).

Do other regions use Papaw?

It’s strongest in the South and Appalachia, but you’ll hear it anywhere folks with roots in those regions live.