   Grinnin’ Like a Possum Eatin’ a Sweet TaterIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "grinnin’ like a possum" means smiling widely, often with pride, mischief, or slyness. The image comes from opossums baring their teeth, which looks like a big grin. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #FoodandDrink #Animals #Southern #FarmTalk #BodyandHealth Hillbilly Dude Says...  We still say 'grinnin’ like a possum' - and some will add 'eatin’ a sweet tater.' Hillbilly Dude Says... We still say 'grinnin’ like a possum' - and some will add 'eatin’ a sweet tater.' Pronunciation[GRIN-in like uh POSS-um] Meaning & Usage- Smiling widely, sometimes slyly (saying)
Mae:
Why you grinnin’ like a possum?
Earl:
Won the raffle, that’s why!variations: grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater, smilin’ wide, cheesin’, toothy grin, smilin’ proud, smirkin’ ★ The phrase can be affectionate ("he’s happy as can be") or teasing ("look at him grinnin’ like a possum, up to somethin’"). ★ Origin and EtymologyFrom the opossum, a nocturnal animal common in the South and Appalachia. When startled or feeding, they often bare their teeth, which looks like a big grin. By the 1800s, "grinnin’ like a possum" was a popular rural simile. Usage NotesStill common in Appalachian and Southern speech. The longer form "grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater" adds humor and is still heard today. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it quick: "grinnin’ like a possum." Drop the "g" in "grinning." | ...
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