Papaw
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Papaw" is a common word for grandfather. It’s also used playfully to tease someone acting old before their time - like going to bed early or moving slow.
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I didn't know 'Papaw' was hillbilly 'til I was all growed up. I didn't know 'Papaw' was hillbilly 'til I was all growed up. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- A grandfather (noun, kinship term)
Who’s that sittin’ on the porch?That’s my Papaw.- A playful tease for someone acting old (noun, figurative use)
I’m headin’ to bed.What? It’s only 8 o’clock, Papaw.Origin and Etymology
From older English and Scots-Irish forms of "Papa" and "Pa." In Appalachia and the South, it blended with "paw" to form "Papaw," which became one of the most common grandfather names. The teasing sense grew naturally as families and friends used "Papaw" to rib anyone acting elderly.
Usage Notes
Still widely used in the South and Appalachia. Outside the region, "Papaw" may confuse folks since it’s also the name of a fruit tree, but in the hills it almost always means grandfather - unless it’s a playful jab at someone acting like one.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "Pap-aw" or "Paw-paw." Stress falls on the first syllable.