Tennessee’s local flavor is captured in its unique, funny expressions—some heard across the South, others born right in the Volunteer State. Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Tennessee:
10 Hilarious Tennessee Sayings
“That dog won’t hunt.”
Translation: That idea or excuse won’t work here.
“He’s happier than a pig in slop.”
Used to describe someone utterly content or delighted with their situation.
“She’s as nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rockers.”
Means she’s very anxious or uneasy.
“You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.”
No matter how hard you try, you can’t turn something second-rate into something fancy.
“Madder than a wet hen.”
Describes someone extremely angry or upset.
“Full as a tick.”
Means you’re stuffed after eating a big meal.
“Fixin’ to.”
Planning or getting ready to do something (“I’m fixin’ to go to the store”).
“Bless your heart.”
Can mean genuine sympathy—or politely calling someone clueless or foolish.
“If it had been a snake, it’d have bit me!”
Said when you overlook something obvious.
“That’s slicker than a greased pig.”
Describes something extremely slippery, quick, or clever.
Cultural Notes
These sayings mix wit, warmth, and a little sarcasm—they’re part of everyday conversation, especially in rural Tennessee towns and with longtime locals. Some double as gentle put-downs, while others paint vivid (often animal-inspired) pictures that capture a situation perfectly.
SOURCES
(https://servingupsouthern.com/50-of-the-best-southern-sayings/)
(https://www.southernliving.com/southern-sayings-6534958)
(https://olered.com/nashville/articles/2019/nashville-phrases-glossary/)(https://www.movoto.com/guide/tn/tennessee-words/)
