Heap

In Southern and Appalachian speech, a "heap" means a large amount or a lot of something. It’s a plain, folksy word for plenty, used both for things and for how much you like something.

#SouthernWords #Appalachia #Measurements #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...

Yep, you still hear 'heap' around here.

Hillbilly Dude Says...

Yep, you still hear 'heap' around here.

Pronunciation

[HEEP]

Meaning & Usage

- A large amount (noun)

Mae:

How many jars you got?

Earl:

A heap of ’em - enough to last all winter.

- Very much (intensifier, adverb-like)

Mae:

You enjoy the supper?

Earl:

Sure did - I liked it a heap.

★ "Heap" works both ways - it can mean a pile of something or just "a lot." Southerners even use it for affection: "I love y’all a heap." ★

Origin and Etymology

From Old English "heep," meaning a pile or mass. Over time, in Southern and Appalachian speech, it took on the figurative meaning of "a lot" or "plenty."

Usage Notes

Still heard in the South and Appalachia, though outside the region it can sound old-fashioned or country. Common in both everyday talk and old-time storytelling.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "heap." Simple and clipped, often stretched a bit in country talk: "heeeep."

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does "heap" always mean a literal pile?

No - in Southern talk it usually just means "a lot" or "very much."

Is "heap" only Southern?

The word exists everywhere, but the figurative use for "a lot" is strongest in Southern and Appalachian speech.

Do folks still use it today?

Yes - especially in rural areas and family talk, it’s still alive and well.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 7). Heap. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/heap
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Heap." HillbillySlang.com, 7 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/heap.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Heap." HillbillySlang.com. September 7, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/heap.

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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...