In Southern and Appalachian speech, gag a maggot (often "enough to gag a maggot") means something is so disgusting or foul that even a maggot - a creature that feeds on rot - would gag.
synonyms: disgusting, revolting, nauseating, enough to turn your stomach
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've heard 'gag a maggot' all my life, but I don't think I've ever said it because it's disgustin'.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've heard 'gag a maggot' all my life, but I don't think I've ever said it because it's disgustin'.
Pronunciation
[GAG uh MAG-it] /ˈɡæɡ ə ˈmæɡɪt/
Meaning & Usage
- Extremely disgusting (saying/adjective phrase)
Passing a dead animal on the roadside
Billy:
Lord, that’s enough to gag a maggot.
Sue Ellen:
Roll the window up quick.
variations: gag a maggot, enough to gag a maggot, make a maggot gag
★ This saying’s power comes from the idea that if even a maggot - which thrives on rot - can’t stand it, it’s truly vile. Southerners love it for its over-the-top imagery. ★
Origin and Etymology
Documented in Southern and Appalachian speech since at least the mid-20th century. The expression builds on the region’s tradition of colorful exaggeration tied to farm and rural life, where maggots were a familiar sight around dead animals or butchering sites.
Usage Notes
Gag a maggot - classic Southern/Appalachian expression for extreme disgust or foul smell.
Variants include "enough to gag a maggot" or "make a maggot gag."
Often paired with other colorful hyperboles like "puke a buzzard off a gut wagon."
Still recognized today, especially among older speakers and in storytelling or humorous exaggeration.
Rooted in everyday rural experiences and blunt descriptions of filth or stench.
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...
I've heard 'gag a maggot' all my life, but I don't think I've ever said it because it's disgustin'.