   Tight as Bark on a TreeIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "tight as bark on a tree" can mean "inseparable/very close" or "tight with money." It’s a vivid rural expression reflecting everyday nature imagery. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #Nature #Southern #MoneyWorkandChores synonyms: inseparable, thick as thieves, stingy, tight-fisted Hillbilly Dude Says...  'Tight as bark on a tree' is one that's really familiar, but I can't pinpoint it. So it's probably regional and old timers. Hillbilly Dude Says... 'Tight as bark on a tree' is one that's really familiar, but I can't pinpoint it. So it's probably regional and old timers. Pronunciation[TITE as BARK on a TREE] /taɪt əz bɑːrk ɑn ə triː/ Meaning & Usage- Very Close / Inseparable (simile)
Hazel:
Them two’s been friends since first grade - tight as bark on a tree.- Very Stingy / Tight-fisted (simile)
Roy:
He’s tight as bark on a tree with his money.variations: tight as bark on a log, tight as bark on a stump ★ This simile works because bark naturally clings to a tree. In Southern speech it’s flexible enough to describe closeness or stinginess, depending on context. ★ Origin and EtymologyThe image dates back to at least the 19th century in rural Southern/Appalachian folk speech, reflecting a tradition of nature-based similes. Variants ("tight as bark on a log") are also attested. Usage NotesStill heard today in rural and small-town speech. Outside the region it’s recognized as a colorful "down-home" saying. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it natural: often with a drawn-out "tiiiight" and "bark" softened ("bahk"). Variants include "tight as bark on a log." | ...
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