Mushmelon 
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "mushmelon" means cantaloupe or muskmelon. It’s a folksy name for the orange-fleshed melon that shows up in summer gardens.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've only heard 'em called 'mushmelons' by my Dad all my life. But outside of the house... truth be told - canteloupes ain't a topic that comes up as often as you might think. So I'm not sure how widespread this is. But we eat 'em salted. Pronunciation
[MUSH-meh-lun]
Meaning & Usage
- Cantaloupe / Muskmelon (noun)
Estel:
Want a big hunk o'this mushmelon?
Want a big hunk o'this mushmelon?
Elmer:
Not without some salt.
Not without some salt.variations: mush melon, muskmelon
★ If someone offers you "mushmelon," they’re talking about cantaloupe - not a new kind of melon. Expect it cold, sweet, and prolly salted. ★
Origin
"Mushmelon" is a dialect form of "muskmelon," the broader name for fragrant melons that includes cantaloupe. Over time, Appalachian and Southern speech dropped the middle consonant and blended it into "mushmelon."
Notes
"Mushmelon" usually means cantaloupe in Appalachia, though technically it can mean any muskmelon. It’s a summertime staple at farm stands, church suppers, and family tables.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say "mush" like the soft cornmeal dish, then "melon" with a lazy middle - "meh-lun." In mountain talk, it runs together quick: "mush-m’lon."