Hillbilly Slang

Authentic sayings, folk stories, and mountain wisdom.

sassin’

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "sassin’" means talking back, being mouthy, or showing disrespect. It’s the act of giving sass, usually to a parent, elder, or teacher.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...
Granny snapped, "Don’t you go sassin’ me, young man." 

Pronunciation

[SASS-in]

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Meaning & Usage

- To talk back or be disrespectful (verb: informal)

Mae:
Why’s he in trouble?
Earl:
Been sassin’ the teacher again.

- Disrespectful or cheeky speech (noun: "sass")

Mae:
What’d he say?
Earl:
Nothin’ but sass - I told him to hush.
other spellings: sassing
★ In the South and Appalachia, "sassin’" was one of the fastest ways for kids to get threatened with a spanking. It’s often remembered with phrases like "I’ll mash your mouth" or "I’ll tan your hide." ★

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