tall tale

In Appalachian and Southern speech, a "tall tale" is an exaggerated or unbelievable story told for humor or effect.

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synonyms: lie, fib

Pronunciation

[TAWL tayl]

Meaning & Usage

- Exaggerated or fanciful story (noun)

Elmer:

He said he caught a catfish big as the truck bed.

Estel:

Sounds like a tall tale to me.

★ A tall tale isn’t meant to be taken literally - it’s about entertaining the listener, not fooling them. ★

Origin

The phrase "tall tale" has been around since at least the 19th century, with "tall" meaning "exaggerated" or "hard to believe." Storytelling traditions in Appalachia and the South embraced the form for humor and community bonding.

Notes

Tall tales often mix a kernel of truth with extreme exaggeration. They’re a staple in rural storytelling and can be passed down for generations.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is a tall tale the same as a lie?

Not exactly - a tall tale is understood to be an exaggeration, not a deception.

Where are tall tales most common?

They’re found all over, but have a strong tradition in Appalachia, the American South, and Western frontier lore.

Can tall tales be true?

Rarely. They may start with something true, but the details get bigger and wilder in the retelling.