Sumpin’
In Appalachian and Southern talk, "sumpin’" is a slurred form of "something." It often carries a hint of mischief - like you’re up to trouble or a sneaky plan.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
Instead of 'something', all the locals around here say 'sumpin'.' Hillbilly Dude Says...
Instead of 'something', all the locals around here say 'sumpin'.' Pronunciation
[SUM-pin]
Meaning & Usage
- Something, often suspicious (noun)
Mae:
What’s that young’un doin’ out there?
What’s that young’un doin’ out there?
Earl:
Looks like he’s up to sumpin’.
Looks like he’s up to sumpin’.- Just "something" in casual speech (noun)
Ruby:
What you makin’ in the kitchen?
What you makin’ in the kitchen?
Estel:
Oh, just sumpin’ quick.
Oh, just sumpin’ quick.variations: somethin’, sumthin’, something
★ If somebody says you’re "up to sumpin’," they probably don’t mean it’s good. But used lightly, it’s also just the mountain way of saying "something." ★
Origin and Etymology
A phonetic variant of "something," where the "th" drops out and the word contracts. Common in Appalachian, Southern, and rural American speech. The form dates back centuries in informal English.
Usage Notes
"Sumpin’" usually shows up in casual conversation and storytelling. It often implies either mischief ("up to sumpin’") or a vague filler ("cookin’ sumpin’"). Writers sometimes use it to capture regional dialect on the page.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it quick: "SUM-pin." The "th" in "something" disappears, and the ending slides down to "-pin." Used casually, often when suspicion or joking is in the air.