Agin 
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "agin" is the dialect pronunciation of "against." It can mean opposed to something or leaning against an object, just like the standard word.
#SouthernWords #Appalachia #Mispronunciation #OldTimers #Southern
Agin
synonyms: against
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I heard 'agin' all the time growin' up - but only sometimes nowadays. Hillbilly Dude Says...
I heard 'agin' all the time growin' up - but only sometimes nowadays. Pronunciation
[uh-GIN]
Meaning & Usage
- Opposed to (preposition, dialect)
Mae:
You for it or agin it?
You for it or agin it?
Earl:
I’m agin it, that’s for sure.
I’m agin it, that’s for sure.- Leaning on or against (preposition, dialect)
Mae:
Where’s he restin’?
Where’s he restin’?
Earl:
Just standin’ agin the post.
Just standin’ agin the post.★ "Agin" has been around in English for centuries, but it held on strongest in the South and Appalachia. It’s one of those little words that instantly marks country speech. ★
Origin and Etymology
From Old English "ongegn," meaning opposite or facing. Over time, dialects shortened and softened it. In Southern and Appalachian speech, the final "st" dropped, leaving "agin."
Usage Notes
Still heard in rural Southern and Appalachian talk, especially among older generations. Outside the region, it’s rare and often used only in folk songs or to mimic country speech.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "uh-gin." The "a-" is quick and soft, and the "st" at the end drops away.
Kin Topics
Related Pages
How to Cite This Page
- APA (7th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 13). Agin. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/agin
- MLA (9th edition)"The Hillbilly Dude." "Agin." HillbillySlang.com, 13 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/agin.
- Chicago (17th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. "Agin." HillbillySlang.com. September 13, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/agin.
Most Popular
Latest Accents
Latest Sayings
Latest Slang
Latest Southernish
About
Created by a true, actual, proper, real-life hillbilly, HillbillySlang is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...