These 17 Slang Terms Only Make Sense If You Live in Tennessee

Tennessee is a state full of musical history, stunning landscapes, and a whole lot of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re jamming to country music in Nashville, hiking through the Smoky Mountains, or enjoying some famous BBQ, Tennesseans have a unique way of talking that reflects the charm and warmth of the Volunteer State. Ready to talk like a local? Here are 17 slang terms that will have you fitting in like a true Tennessean.

Y’all

A quintessential Southern expression used to address a group of people. “Y’all coming to the concert tonight?”

The Volunteer State

Tennessee’s official nickname, reflecting its history of volunteering soldiers, especially during the War of 1812. “I’m proud to live in the Volunteer State.”

Fixin’ to

A phrase used to say you’re about to do something. “I’m fixin’ to head to the store, you need anything?”

Bless Your Heart

A sweet phrase used to express sympathy or, sometimes, a little playful pity. “You didn’t get the job? Bless your heart, it’ll be okay.”

Holler

A term used for a small valley or a rural area, often used in the Appalachian regions of Tennessee. “I live out in the holler, about 10 miles from town.”

Hot Chicken

Refers to Nashville’s famous dish, “Nashville Hot Chicken,” which is spicy fried chicken served with pickles. “You have to try Nashville hot chicken while you’re here.”

The Smokies

Refers to the Great Smoky Mountains, the beautiful national park that borders Tennessee and North Carolina. “We’re going camping in the Smokies this weekend.”

Pickin’

Refers to playing an instrument, especially guitar or banjo, in the traditional bluegrass or country music style. “We’re heading over to the barn for some pickin’ tonight.”

Tennessee Waltz

Refers to the classic country song, but also used to describe a slow, easy pace, especially in conversation. “Slow down, sugar, we’re in a Tennessee waltz here.”

The Big Orange

A nickname for the University of Tennessee and its sports teams, particularly football. “We’re tailgating for the Big Orange game this weekend.”

Coke

Just like in many parts of the South, “Coke” is used as a catch-all term for soda. “I’ll have a Coke, please. Oh, you have Pepsi? That’s fine.”

Crank it up

To turn up the volume on music or the radio, especially when you’re listening to country or rock music. “Crank it up, let’s hear some Johnny Cash!”

Southern Hospitality

The phrase used to describe the warm, friendly, and polite attitude of Tennesseans toward visitors and neighbors. “Thanks for helping out with that, we really appreciate your Southern hospitality.”

Piddlin’

A word used to describe wasting time or casually messing around. “Stop piddlin’ around and help me with these boxes!”

Yankee

A term used to describe someone from the Northern U.S., typically with a little playful teasing. “What do you mean you’ve never had sweet tea? You must be a Yankee!”

BBQ

In Tennessee, BBQ is more than just food—it’s a way of life. It typically refers to slow-cooked pork, served with sauce and sides like coleslaw and baked beans. “We’re having BBQ for dinner—can’t wait for that pulled pork!”

Mountaineer

Refers to the proud residents of the Appalachian Mountains in Eastern Tennessee. “He’s a true mountaineer, born and raised in the Smokies.”

Now you’re ready to blend in like a true Tennessean! Whether you’re eating hot chicken in Nashville, enjoying a barbecue cookout, or hiking in the Smokies, these slang terms will help you sound like you’ve lived in Tennessee your whole life. From “Y’all” to “BBQ,” Tennessee’s language reflects the warmth, hospitality, and vibrant culture of the Volunteer State. Welcome to Tennessee, where the music’s always playing, the food is always delicious, and the people are as friendly as they come!