Cussin’ (Cussing)

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "cussin’" means swearing, using foul language, or speaking harshly. It’s the regional way of saying "cursing."

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

I'm not sure I ever heard anybody say anythin' but 'cussin’' all my life. I mean to describe what unhillbillies might call cursin'. But it's not necessarily just people. You may say 'well - 'at ol' cat was cussin' me when I took her food away.'

Pronunciation

[KUH-sən]

Meaning & Usage

- To swear or use foul language (verb, informal)

Mama:

No cussin’ under my roof.

- To fuss at or scold (verb, figurative)

Boss:

I spent all morning cussin’ at that broken tractor.

variations: cursing, cussing

★ "Cussin’" can cover everything from light words like "dang" to the real strong stuff. Folks use it loosely, often depending on family standards. ★

Origin

A variation of "curse," recorded in English since the 18th century. The "u" vowel and dropped "g" helped it stick in rural Southern and Appalachian dialects.

Notes

Still widely used across the South and Appalachia. Often said in church warnings, family rules, or stories where "cussin’" is frowned upon.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "cuss-in." The "g" is dropped, giving it a country sound.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "cussin’" always mean strong profanity?

Not necessarily - even mild words can be called cussin’ in Southern families.

Is "cussin’" used outside the South?

Yes, but it’s most at home in Southern/Appalachian dialect.

Do people still say it today?

Absolutely - it’s alive and well, especially in family talk and storytelling.