Blackberry Winter
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Blackberry Winter" names a late-spring cold snap that arrives when blackberry bushes bloom, often early to mid-May. It’s part of a folk calendar marking weather patterns.
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Hillbilly Dude Says...
Everybody knows about 'Blackberry Winter' around here. It'll take out lots of stuff if you don't prepare. Hillbilly Dude Says...
Everybody knows about 'Blackberry Winter' around here. It'll take out lots of stuff if you don't prepare. Pronunciation
[BLACK-ber-ee WIN-ter]
Meaning & Usage
- A brief cold spell in late spring during blackberry bloom (noun phrase)
Mae:
Cold this week!
Cold this week!
Earl:
Yep - it’s Blackberry Winter. Happens every year when the blooms come on.
Yep - it’s Blackberry Winter. Happens every year when the blooms come on.variations: late-spring cold snap, one of the "little winters"
★ Blackberry Winter is one of several "little winters" recognized by Southern/Appalachian folk calendars. Others include Dogwood Winter, Redbud Winter, and Whippoorwill Winter. ★
Origin and Etymology
Rooted in Southern/Appalachian folk weather lore. Farmers noticed a cold snap during blackberry bloom and named it "Blackberry Winter," blending natural observation with seasonal timing.
Usage Notes
Still a common term among older rural residents and in local newspapers or almanacs. Rare outside the South, though some Midwesterners recognize it from folk tradition.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "black-berry winter."