Switchback
In Appalachian and Southern mountain speech, a "switchback" is a sharp, U-shaped curve on a steep road or trail. It’s a common word in mountainous areas but less familiar to folks from flat country.
Hillbilly Dude Says...
Growin' up, the only way around TN, KY, VA and NC was by 'switchback.' I'd be sicker'n a dog. Hillbilly Dude Says...
Growin' up, the only way around TN, KY, VA and NC was by 'switchback.' I'd be sicker'n a dog. Pronunciation
[SWITCH-bak]
Meaning & Usage
- A sharp U-turn on a steep road (noun)
Mae:
Hold on - we’re coming up on a switchback.
Hold on - we’re coming up on a switchback.- A zigzag section of a hiking trail (noun)
Mae:
The path’s steep but full of switchbacks - easier than straight up.
The path’s steep but full of switchbacks - easier than straight up.variations: hairpin curve
★ Switchbacks are built to handle steep grades safely. In Appalachia, everyone knows them; in flatter states, the term may be unfamiliar or only known from hiking or railroads. ★
Origin and Etymology
From 19th-century railroad engineering (switch + back), describing a zigzag track layout to climb steep terrain. Adopted into road and trail talk, especially in mountainous regions such as the Appalachians.
Usage Notes
Common in the Appalachian Mountains and other steep areas. Recognized nationwide among hikers and drivers but less used in flat regions like Illinois or Florida. People there may just say "sharp curve" or "hairpin turn."
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "switch-back." Often with "up," "down," or a landmark: "Watch that switchback by the overlook."