Every corner of America has its own regional flare and cultural saying but none more distinct and rich as those in the South.  Southern speech is possibly the most recognized regional dialect of American English although speakers know there are a wide variety of regional dialects and expressions. Let me take this opportunity to introduce you to the Language of the South.

• Southerners don’t say I am sorry, they say “Bless Your Heart”.
• Southerners don’t say they are about to do something, they say “Fixin’ To”.
• Southerners refer to many items being broken, they say “Torn Slap Up”.
• “Down Yonder” is the region from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas.
• “I’m finer than a frog’s hair split four ways” means I am feeling real good.
• “A come to Jesus Meeting” is a serious confrontation.
• “They’re too big for their britches” means they think too much of themselves.
• “Hankerin’ for means they are in the mood for something.
• “Cattywampus” means something that has been knocked off kilter.
• “You take your own sweet time” means you are taking too long.
• “Thingamajigger” is something you have forgotten the name for.
• “Hissy Fit” anything less than a tantrum.
• “I am Fit to be tied” means you are angry about something.
• “Full as a Tick” means you had a lot to eat.
• “Doesn’t amount to a hill of beans” means not worth much.
• “Pretty as a Peach” is a great compliment.
• “Over yonder” means out of sight but not too far.
• “Till the cows come home” means forever.
• “Madder than a wet hen” is very mad.
• “Hold your horses” means wait a minute.
• “I reckon” means I guess.
• “Heavens to Betsy” is an exclamation of surprise.

Now some of these terms had their origin as far back as the 1700s and there are many more. So if you come across a saying or expression that you don’t understand maybe you will see it in a future article. So “y’all come back hear”.