In Appalachian and Southern talk, "internets" is a playful way of referring to the internet. It reflects the regional habit of adding an "s" to names - and sometimes twisting it further into "interwebs."
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard, 'I seen it on the internets.'
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard, 'I seen it on the internets.'
Pronunciation
[IN-ter-nets]
Meaning & Usage
- The Internet (pluralized) (noun)
Sharing news
Mae:
Where’d you hear that?
Earl:
On the internets.
- Playful / joking reference (noun)
Poking fun
Ruby:
Kids sayin’ I need the TikToks on my phone.
Estel:
Next thing you know, you’ll be on the interwebs.
variations: internet, the internet, internets, the internets, interwebs, the interwebs
★ "The internets" isn’t about tech - it’s about tone. Folks add the "s" out of habit, or to poke fun at modern life. ★
Origin and Etymology
The form comes from the same speech pattern that gave us Walmarks and "Krogers." Adding "s" makes the word feel more familiar, and "interwebs" grew as a joking twist, especially once the internet became mainstream.
Usage Notes
You’ll still hear "internets" in rural and Appalachian communities, sometimes sincerely, sometimes with a grin. "Interwebs" leans more humorous, but both reflect the same cultural habit of reshaping words to fit local rhythm.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said casual: "the internets." Sometimes "interwebs" sneaks in, making it sound even more folksy and tongue-in-cheek.
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site 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 lost count of how many times I’ve heard, 'I seen it on the internets.'