Redneck
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "redneck" is often a proud self-description for rural, working-class folks - especially those who work outdoors and aren’t afraid to show it.
Pronunciation
[RED-neck]
Meaning & Usage
- Rural, working-class person (noun)
Elmer:
I guess I’m a redneck, ’cause I’d rather be outside than anywhere else.
I guess I’m a redneck, ’cause I’d rather be outside than anywhere else.
Estel:
- Hardworking outdoor laborer (noun)
Elmer:
My neck’s red ’cause I been workin’ in the hayfield all week.
My neck’s red ’cause I been workin’ in the hayfield all week.
Estel:
That’s the real kind of redneck.
That’s the real kind of redneck.★ If somebody calls themselves a redneck, they probably mean it with pride. ★
Origin
Originally used to describe farmers and field workers who got sunburned necks from working long hours outdoors. Over time, it’s been used both as an insult and a badge of honor - with many in Appalachia and the South proudly claiming it.
Notes
Tone matters - "redneck" can be friendly when self-applied or used among friends, but it can be insulting when used by outsiders in a mocking way.