fairy diddle
In Appalachian and Southern speech, a "fairy diddle" is a small woodland critter-most often the Southern flying squirrel, but also sometimes a chipmunk or other tiny, darting animal. The name combines "fairy" for its small, elusive nature and "diddle" for its quick movement.
Sayin' 'fairy diddle' is definitely an old timer and regional thing. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- A small flying squirrel or chipmunk (noun)
What’s that little critter?That’s a fairy diddle-flies from tree to tree at night.- By extension: a small, quick or sneaky person/animal (noun, figurative)
You’re dartin’ ’round like a fairy diddle.Origin
Recorded in the Dictionary of American Regional English and Appalachian word lists as a regional name for the Southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) and sometimes chipmunks. Reflects the region’s tradition of whimsical animal names.
Notes
Still heard today among older speakers and naturalists in Appalachia. Outside the region it’s rarely recognized but is beloved in local folklore and children’s nature lore.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it natural: stress "fairy" lightly and "diddle" quick-sounds playful, almost like a child’s rhyme.