   Them ThereIn Southern and Appalachian speech, them there is a colorful way of saying "those," often for emphasis or flavor - "them there hills," "them there tools," "them there biscuits." #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #DialectandGrammar #OldTimers #Southern synonyms: those, those there, them Hillbilly Dude Says...  Yes, people sometimes use 'them there' in a silly way. But old timers out in the country still use this one. Hillbilly Dude Says... Yes, people sometimes use 'them there' in a silly way. But old timers out in the country still use this one. Pronunciation[THEM THAIR] /ðɛm ðɛr/ Meaning & Usage- Demonstrative phrase for "those" (nonstandard)
Billy:
Grab them there tools for me, will ya?
Mabel:
Got ‘em right here.variations: them there, them-there, them there hills, them there tools ★ "Them there" adds Southern flavor to plain "those." It’s the verbal equivalent of pointing and squinting across the holler. ★ Origin and EtymologyThe construction "them there" descends from older British and Scots-Irish English patterns brought to Appalachia. It’s been documented in Appalachian speech since the early 20th century, where "them" functions as a demonstrative and "there" adds emphasis or location. Usage Notes
| ...
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