   Tickled to DeathIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "Tickled to Death" means extremely pleased or delighted - an emphatic way to say "I’m thrilled" or "I’m overjoyed." #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #Southern Hillbilly Dude Says...  'Tickled to death' is really common around here. Didn't really think about how negative it sounds, but it's a good thing. Hillbilly Dude Says... 'Tickled to death' is really common around here. Didn't really think about how negative it sounds, but it's a good thing. Pronunciation[TIK-uhld tuh DETH] /ˈtɪkəld tə dɛθ/ Meaning & Usage- Extremely pleased or delighted (expression)
Pearl:
She said yes?
Jeb:
Yep - I was tickled to death when she did.variations: Thrilled, Overjoyed, Delighted, Extremely Pleased ★ Adding "to death" is a common Southern/Appalachian intensifier ("scared to death," "pleased to death"). "Tickled to death" is the most famous example, meaning you’re absolutely delighted. ★ Origin and EtymologyFrom the older English use of "tickle" meaning "delight or gratify." The "to death" intensifier emerged in the American South during the 19th century and became a hallmark of rural speech. Usage NotesStill widely heard in Southern/Appalachian speech, often as a genuine expression of joy or surprise. Outside the region it’s understood but sounds quaint or folksy. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it natural: "tickled to death" - usually said with a smile or laugh. Sometimes shortened to "tickled" but with "to death" added for emphasis. | ...
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