Tennessee
Here are 31 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from Tennessee
Embark on a linguistic journey through the Volunteer State as we uncover 31 colloquial gems that add a distinctive melody to the Tennessee lexicon. From savoring the heat of “hot chicken” in Nashville to navigating the soulful rhythms of “Blues City” in Memphis, Tennessee’s slang reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of the region. Whether you’re a proud Vol or a curious outsider, join us in exploring the unique linguistic expressions that make Tennessee’s vernacular as rich and varied as its musical heritage.
Volunteer State
A nickname for Tennessee, reflecting the state’s history of volunteer soldiers, particularly during the War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War.
Fixin’
Used in lieu of, “I’m going to,” or, “I will.”
Grits and Gravy
Refers to a strong Southern accent often associated with Tennessee residents.
Goo Goo
No, not a baby or a really bad pet name. It refers to the amazingly delicious Goo Goo Cluster, a Tennessee staple.
Hose Pipe
Just your regular ‘ol garden hose.
Sweet Tea
All tea in Tennessee. Ever. All tea is sweet because HOW ELSE WOULD YOU DRINK IT?!
Cathead
A large biscuit. Cat Head Biscuits are so named because they are as big as a cat’s head!
Smokies
No, we’re not talking about the cocktail sausages that are simmered in a crockpot! When Tennesseans talk about the “smokies,” they are usually referencing the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee.
Smoky Mountains
Refers to the Great Smoky Mountains, a prominent mountain range on the Tennessee-North Carolina border.
Biscuit Eater
A friendly term for someone from Tennessee, highlighting the Southern culinary tradition of enjoying biscuits.
Meat and Three
Classic southern dinner. A Meat & Three meal is Southern food at its very best. Choose a delicious meat dish, accompanied by three mouthwatering sides.
Honky Tonk
Planning a trip to Nashville soon? It’s time to get familiar with honky tonks. A honky tonk is a establishment that usually offers performances around the clock, casual bar cuisine and cold drinks. In Nashville, tourists can find a whole row of honky tonks on Broadway.
Graceland
Elvis Presley’s iconic mansion in Memphis, often used to symbolize the King of Rock and Roll’s influence on Tennessee.
Suga’
A term of endearment similar though not the same as, “sugar,” which northerners say.
Tenn
An informal abbreviation for Tennessee, commonly used in conversation.
Hot Chicken
A spicy fried chicken dish originating from Nashville, known for its fiery flavor.
Blinked
Sour milk. How locals describe sour or spoiled milk: “the milk is blinked!”
God love em’
Means that God better love ’em because I sure don’t
Soul Gravy
A metaphorical expression for the cultural richness and vibrancy of Tennessee, particularly in music and food.
Vols
Short for Volunteers, the University of Tennessee’s sports teams, including the football team.
Grizzlies
Not a bear, but the Memphis basketball team.
Jitney Jungle
An outdated term for a grocery store, once used in the Memphis area.
Buckle on the Bible Belt
This refers to Nashville. Music City is the buckle, right in the middle of the religious south.
Toboggan
It’s a beanie! Not a sled.
Goo Goo
Candy bar. It refers to the amazingly delicious Goo Goo Cluster, a Tennessee candy bar that contains marshmallow nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts covered in milk chocolate.
Banjo Country
A playful reference to the Appalachian region of Tennessee, known for its musical heritage.
East Tennessee
The eastern region of the state, distinguished by its mountainous terrain and distinct cultural characteristics.
Duns
Bills. This word means bills you get in the mail, such as electricity.
Midstate
Refers to the central region of Tennessee, including cities like Nashville and Murfreesboro.
Blues City
A nod to Memphis, often called the “Home of the Blues,” reflecting the city’s significant musical contributions.
Dollywood
An amusement park in Pigeon Forge founded by Dolly Parton, showcasing Tennessee’s entertainment culture.
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