pole cat
An Appalachian (and Southern) term for a skunk - known for its strong smell and knack for trouble.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
My Dad ONLY calls skunks 'polecats'. Never heard him use a different term. We use both in our family. Pronunciation
[POHL-kat]
Meaning & Usage
- Skunk
Elmer
Best not mess with that pole cat under the porch.
Best not mess with that pole cat under the porch.
Estel
I know better - I like breathin’ fresh air.
I know better - I like breathin’ fresh air.- Unpleasant Person
Elmer
That feller shorted me two dollars.
That feller shorted me two dollars.
Estel
Dern pole cat. Don’t trust him far as you can throw him.
Dern pole cat. Don’t trust him far as you can throw him.★ If you hear your dog tanglin’ with a pole cat, get the tomato juice ready. ★
Origin
"Polecat" has been used in the U.S. since the 17th century to mean skunk, likely borrowed from European settlers who used "polecat" for a weasel-like animal back home. In Appalachia, the term stuck.
Notes
While most Americans say "skunk," many rural Appalachian and Southern folks still call them pole cats. The insult sense ("ornery person") grew naturally from the animal’s reputation.