scat there, tom

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "scat there, Tom" is a playful variation of the sneeze response "scat there," adding a friendly name for rhythm and fun.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

This is what I normally say in response to a sneeze myself - "scat there, tom!". If there's another sneeze after, they get the upgraded version.

Pronunciation

[skat th-air tahm]

Meaning & Usage

- Sneeze Response (interjection)

Mae:

ACHOO!

Elmer:

Scat there, Tom!

other spellings: scat there tom, scat, tom, scat there, tommy, and scat there tomcat

★ The "Tom" doesn’t have to be your name - it’s just a folksy tag that makes the phrase roll off the tongue and stick in the memory. ★

Origin

"Scat" has long been used to shoo away bad luck, animals, or trouble. In sneeze responses, adding a name like "Tom" likely started as a playful or rhyming addition, and in Appalachian tradition it became a familiar, friendly turn of phrase.

Notes

"Scat there, Tom" is still remembered by many in rural Appalachia and the South. It’s rarer than a simple "scat there," but more likely to get a chuckle.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "Tom" mean the person’s name is Tom?

Not at all - it’s just part of the phrase.

Is it always "Tom"?

Usually, but some folks swap in other names for fun.

Is it used outside sneeze responses?

Not typically - this version is almost always tied to sneezing.

Where is it still heard?

Mostly in rural or older Appalachian and Southern communities.