If a Knife, Fork, or Spoon Falls, Company’s Coming
Some of these I can only vaguely familiar, and this one of those. I can't remember whether or not I heard this one growin' up. Some of these I can only vaguely familiar, and this one of those. I can't remember whether or not I heard this one growin' up. Origin
This superstition has deep roots in Appalachian and broader Southern folk tradition, passed down through families and everyday kitchen life. In homes where visitors often arrived unannounced, small household events were closely watched for signs of who might be on the way.
The belief likely blends European folk customs with Appalachian storytelling habits, where ordinary domestic moments - especially in the kitchen - took on predictive meaning. Over time, the saying became common table talk rather than a serious prophecy.
Notes
- Fork falls - a woman is coming to visit.
- Spoon falls - friendly or familiar company.
- Knife falls - a man is coming, sometimes unexpected.
- Any utensil falls - company is on the way.
- Direction matters - some say the handle pointing toward the door confirms it.
Legacy
This superstition remains one of the most commonly remembered household signs in Southern and Appalachian folklore. Even today, many people repeat it jokingly when silverware drops - half in fun, half in tradition.
Like many domestic signs, its staying power comes from familiarity: it turns an ordinary clatter into a moment of shared folklore and conversation.
Related Pages
- Risk It for the Biscuit
- Folklore: If the Rooster Crows at the Door, Company’s Coming - Southern Superstition and Appalachian Folklore
- Folklore: If You Drop a Dishrag, Company’s Coming - Southern Superstition and Appalachian Folklore
- Folklore: If Your Nose Itches, Company’s Coming - Southern Superstition and Appalachian Folklore
- Folklore: Ears Burning - Southern Saying and Old Superstition
How to Cite This Page
- APA (7th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, December 16). If a Knife, Fork, or Spoon Falls, Company’s Coming. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/folklore/utensil-falls-company-coming
- MLA (9th edition)"The Hillbilly Dude." "If a Knife, Fork, or Spoon Falls, Company’s Coming." HillbillySlang.com, 16 Dec. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/folklore/utensil-falls-company-coming.
- Chicago (17th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. "If a Knife, Fork, or Spoon Falls, Company’s Coming." HillbillySlang.com. December 16, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/folklore/utensil-falls-company-coming.
Dislaimer
What you're reading here is traditional Southern and Appalachian folklore - including stories, old wives' tales, planting lore, signs, and superstitions - not medical advice and not meant to guide health, pregnancy, agricultural, or personal decisions. These beliefs reflect how people once made sense of the world, passing knowledge and traditions through families, midwives, farmers, and community storytelling. Some entries draw from Cherokee and other Native American traditions historically present in the region and are shared respectfully as part of the broader cultural landscape of Appalachia, not as lived instruction or authoritative teaching.
If you have any medical questions or concerns, talk with a qualified healthcare professional.
