redneck

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "redneck" is often a proud self-description for rural, working-class folks - especially those who work outdoors and aren’t afraid to show it.

#SouthernWords #Appalachia

Pronunciation

[RED-neck]

Meaning & Usage

- Rural, working-class person (noun)

Elmer:

I guess I’m a redneck, ’cause I’d rather be outside than anywhere else.

Estel:

Nothin’ wrong with that - somebody’s gotta grow the taters.

- Hardworking outdoor laborer (noun)

Elmer:

My neck’s red ’cause I been workin’ in the hayfield all week.

Estel:

That’s the real kind of redneck.

★ If somebody calls themselves a redneck, they probably mean it with pride. ★

Origin

Originally used to describe farmers and field workers who got sunburned necks from working long hours outdoors. Over time, it’s been used both as an insult and a badge of honor - with many in Appalachia and the South proudly claiming it.

Notes

Tone matters - "redneck" can be friendly when self-applied or used among friends, but it can be insulting when used by outsiders in a mocking way.

Kin Topics

Appalachia

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is "redneck" the same as "hillbilly"?

Not exactly. "Hillbilly" is tied more to Appalachian mountain culture, while "redneck" can apply to rural working-class folks across the South and beyond.

Where did it start?

It likely comes from sunburned necks of farmers and laborers, but some historians link it to early 20th-century coal miner union movements where red bandanas were worn.

Is it always an insult?

Nope - plenty of folks proudly call themselves rednecks.