In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Hawgatha" is a playful insult for somebody who’s being greedy - eatin’ too much, eatin’ too fast, or trying to grab seconds before ever’body else. The word blends "hawg" with the name "Agatha" for comic effect.
I've heard 'Hawgatha' as long as I can remember. And I pull it out when I need to still't.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've heard 'Hawgatha' as long as I can remember. And I pull it out when I need to still't.
Pronunciation
[HAWG-uh-thuh]
Meaning & Usage
- A greedy person who takes too much food (noun)
At the supper table
Mae:
Don’t be a Hawgatha - there’s still folks waitin’.
- Someone who eats too fast or rushes for seconds (noun)
During dessert
Earl:
He was first in line for cake and first back for more - a real Hawgatha.
★ Calling somebody a "Hawgatha" is usually more teasing than mean - it’s a humorous way to call out greedy behavior at the table. ★
Origin and Etymology
Formed by blending "hawg" (regional form of hog) with the woman’s name "Agatha." Folks used it jokingly to personify greediness, giving it a playful, nickname feel.
Usage Notes
Most common in Appalachian and Southern families, especially around the supper table. Rarely heard outside the region, though its meaning is easy to catch from context.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "hawg-uh-thuh." The "hawg" part is drawn out, the "-atha" light at the end.
Mostly, yes. It’s almost always said at mealtime when somebody’s eatin’ too much or too fast.
Is it meant to be mean?
Not usually - it’s playful teasing, though it can sting if somebody’s sensitive.
Do people outside Appalachia know the term?
Rarely. It’s a regionalism that sticks out as funny and unique.
How to Cite This Page
APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 22). Hawgatha. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/hawgatha
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Hawgatha." HillbillySlang.com, 22 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/hawgatha.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Hawgatha." HillbillySlang.com. September 22, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/hawgatha.
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Created by a true, actual, proper, real-life hillbilly, HillbillySlang is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...
I've heard 'Hawgatha' as long as I can remember. And I pull it out when I need to 