Daggum!In Appalachian and Southern speech, "daggum" is a folksy exclamation used for emphasis - to show surprise, frustration, or admiration without harsh cussin’. Hillbilly Dude Says... Hillbilly Dude Says... Pronunciation[DAG-uhm] Meaning & Usage- Exclamation / Emphasis (interjection)
Earl:
Mae:
variations: daggum, dadgum, doggum ★ "Daggum" is versatile - it can mean you’re mad, impressed, or just filling space in a sentence. The tone of voice tells the story more than the word itself. ★ Origin and EtymologyA softened form of something blasphemous turned into a polite minced oath. Scots-Irish settlers and early Southerners favored softened curses like "doggone," "dadgum," and "dadgummit" so they could vent without swearing outright. Usage Notes"Daggum" stands on its own more often than "dadgummit." You’ll hear it in playful teasing, mild annoyance, or exaggeration. It’s common in rural speech, old TV shows, and modern Southern storytelling. Say It Like a SouthernerSay "dag" quick and sharp, then let "uhm" roll out easy, almost like "gum." It usually comes out in one breathy burst, with the emphasis on "dag." | ...
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