In Appalachian and Southern speech, "jabberjawin’" (commonly written as "jabberjawing") means talking too much, often fast or without much to say. It can be playful - just chattin’ away - or critical, meaning someone won’t hush.
I hear 'jabberjawin’' ever once in awhile, but not as much now as I used to.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I hear 'jabberjawin’' ever once in awhile, but not as much now as I used to.
Pronunciation
[JAB-er-jaw-in]
/ˈdʒæb.ɚ.dʒɔː.ɪn/
Meaning & Usage
- Talking too much or too fast (verb)
At the store
Mae:
How long you been here?
Earl:
Too long - fella’s just jabberjawin’ away.
- Playful talk or chatter (verb)
At a gathering
Mae:
They’s just sittin’ on the porch jabberjawin’.
variations: jawin’, flappin’ his jaws, jawjackin’, chatterin’, talkin’ too much, running his mouth, gabbin’
★ Sometimes said with a grin, sometimes with an eye-roll. Tone tells whether "jabberjawin’" is harmless chatter or plain annoyance. ★
Origin and Etymology
Formed from "jabber" (to chatter quickly) and "jaw" (mouth or face). The blend likely spread through Appalachian and Southern speech in the 20th century, alongside similar sayings like "flappin’ his jaws."
Usage Notes
Still common in Southern and Appalachian talk. Outside the region, people may know the cartoon *Jabberjaw* (1970s), but in the mountains "jabberjawin’" was already a live saying.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "jabber-jaw-in." The final "g" drops - always "jabberjawin’."
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 hear 'jabberjawin’' ever once in awhile, but not as much now as I used to.