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Gimme Some Sugar

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "gimme some sugar" doesn’t mean asking for sweets - it’s a warm, affectionate request for a kiss, usually on the cheek.

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #FoodandDrink   #PeopleandRelationships   #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...
Older folks usually ask for affection from the young'uns in their family by saying, 'gimme some sugar' or 'can I get some sugar?' 
Hillbilly Dude Says...
Older folks usually ask for affection from the young'uns in their family by saying, 'gimme some sugar' or 'can I get some sugar?' 

Pronunciation

[GIM-ee sum SHOO-gur]

Meaning & Usage

- To give a kiss (verb phrase)

Mae:
Don’t leave without givin’ me a hug.
Grandma:
And gimme some sugar too.

- To show affection (verb phrase, figurative)

Mae:
You look wore out.
Earl:
I could use a hug. Gimme some sugar.
variations: give me some sugar, can I get some sugar
★ "Gimme some sugar" is a sweet, family-friendly saying. Don’t mistake it for candy - it’s all about affection. ★

Origin and Etymology

Likely grew in Southern English in the 19th and 20th centuries, using "sugar" as a metaphor for sweetness and love. Carried through families and still heard in everyday talk.

Usage Notes

Still widely used in the South and Appalachia, especially by older generations and grandparents. Outside the region, it may be misunderstood as asking for actual sugar.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "gim-ee sum shug-ur." In the South, "sugar" often sounds like "shoo-gur."

Kin Topics

Related Pages

Common Questions

Does "gimme some sugar" mean asking for candy?
No - it’s about kisses and affection, not sweets.
Who usually says it?
Often grandparents, parents, or couples as a playful, loving phrase.
Is it still common today?
Yes - though a little old-fashioned, it’s still warmly recognized in Southern families.

How to Cite This Page

  • APA (7th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 6). Gimme Some Sugar . HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/gimme-some-sugar
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    "The Hillbilly Dude." "Gimme Some Sugar ." HillbillySlang.com, 6 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/gimme-some-sugar.
  • Chicago (17th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. "Gimme Some Sugar ." HillbillySlang.com. September 6, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/gimme-some-sugar.
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