Plumb

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "Plumb" is an old intensifier meaning "completely" or "entirely," often attached to adjectives for emphasis.

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synonyms: completely, totally, entirely, absolutely

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I use 'plumb' plumb often - and I hear it often. It's common down here.

Pronunciation

[PLUM] /plʌm/

Meaning & Usage

- Completely or entirely (intensifier) (adverb)

Mae:

I’m plumb wore out after that barn raising.

★ "Plumb" originally referred to a plumb line used to measure straightness. In older English, "plumb" came to mean "exactly" or "straight down," then "completely." Southern/Appalachian speech kept this old meaning alive as an intensifier. ★

Origin

From Middle French "plombe" and Latin "plumbum" (lead), referring to a plumb line. English speakers extended "plumb" metaphorically to mean "exactly," then "completely." This sense persisted in rural Southern/Appalachian speech long after it faded from standard English.

Notes

Still very common in Southern/Appalachian speech as a folksy intensifier. Outside the region it sounds old-fashioned or humorous but is easily understood.

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it natural: "plumb" rhymes with "thumb," often said with a soft drawl. It’s not the fruit "plum" but an old English word meaning "exact" or "completely."

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Common Questions

Is "plumb" the same as "plum" (fruit)?

No - it’s a different word entirely, from the plumb line used in carpentry.

How is it used?

To intensify an adjective or state: "plumb broke," "plumb wore out," "plumb crazy."

Is it still used today?

Yes - especially in rural speech or by people wanting a folksy or humorous tone.