gallivantin’

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "gallivantin’" means roaming around for fun, wasting time, or socializing instead of tending to work. Often used by elders as a playful scolding.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

My Momma used 'gallivantin’' all the time when I was a young'un. And I still do myself.

Pronunciation

[GAL-uh-vant-in]

Meaning & Usage

- To roam around for pleasure or fun (verb)

Mae:

Did you get your chores done?

Earl:

Naw, I was just gallivantin’ down at the creek.

- To loaf or waste time instead of working (verb)

Mae:

Them young’uns been gallivantin’ all afternoon instead of splittin’ wood.

★ When Momma says you’ve been "gallivantin’," it usually means you weren’t where you were supposed to be - and she’s not impressed. ★

Origin

From French *galer* (to enjoy oneself) and *vagabond* (wanderer). The word entered English in the 1600s as "gallivant." While it faded in most regions, in Appalachia and the South it stuck in everyday family speech.

Notes

Still common in Appalachia and the South, especially in older generations. Outside the region, folks may know it, but it sounds old-fashioned or bookish rather than natural.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "gal-uh-vant-in." The "g" in "-ing" is dropped: "gallivantin’."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "gallivantin’" always mean having fun?

Not always - it can also mean just running around with no purpose.

Do people outside the South say it?

Rarely in casual speech. It survives strongest in Appalachian and Southern talk.

Is it meant as an insult?

Not really - it’s usually playful or half-scolding, often from parents or grandparents.