Hillbilly Slang

Authentic sayings, folk stories, and mountain wisdom.

real

reckon

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "reckon" can mean to guess, to think, or to be certain - the meaning depends on tone, context, and inflection.

#Appalachia

Pronunciation

[REH-kun]

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We aim to get true definitions and pronunciations for ever single word we can find. Plus real-life tales from the hills - some funny, some maybe downright wild.

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Meaning & Usage

- Guess (verb)

I guess so
Elmer
He ever comin' back?

Estel
Well. I reckon.

- Think (verb)

Do you think...?
Elmer
Reckon he'll be real mad f'he does?

Estel
Aww, hard t'say.

- Absolutely Certain (verb)

No doubt about it
Elmer
An' I reckon somebody'll leave here with a pump knot on their head.

Estel
You got that right.

★ The more serious the tone, the stronger the meaning - "I reckon" can go from casual agreement to a firm declaration. ★

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