   Cuttin’ a ShineIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "cutting a shine" means showing off or acting up to draw attention. It can be playful or scolding, depending on how it’s said. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #Southern synonyms: showing off, acting up, carrying on, showing out Hillbilly Dude Says...  I've only read 'cuttin’ a shine,' I didn't hear it growin' up. I think this one is a little more regional. Hillbilly Dude Says... I've only read 'cuttin’ a shine,' I didn't hear it growin' up. I think this one is a little more regional. Pronunciation[CUH-tin uh SHAHN] /ˈkʌtɪn ə ʃaɪn/ Meaning & Usage- To show off or act up (phrase / idiom)
Mama:
Quit cuttin’ a shine and sit down before you spill that tea.
Brother:
I was just dancin’!variations: cut a shine Origin and EtymologyComes from older expressions like "cut a figure" or "cut a caper," meaning to put on a display. In the South, "shine" adds the idea of something bright, flashy, or attention-getting - behavior that draws the eye. Usage NotesCommon in older Southern and Appalachian speech. Can be affectionate ("He’s cuttin’ a shine for that girl") or disapproving ("Don’t you be cuttin’ a shine in church").
| ...
About Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more... |
Slang and folklore change from place to place - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use →
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content not for reproduction or AI training without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home