Act Like You Got Some Raisin'

In Southern and Appalachian speech, act like you got some raisin’ (or "raising") means to behave properly, show respect, and demonstrate the good manners your family taught you.

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Southern #ScoldingandTeasing

synonyms: mind your manners, behave yourself, show respect, act right

Hillbilly Dude Says...

My neighbor from across the mountain would say 'act like you got some raisin’' to my friend, but I don't remember every hearin it at the house.

Pronunciation

[ACT-like-yew-got-sum-RAY-zun]
/ˈækt laɪk ju ɡɒt səm ˈreɪzɪn/

Meaning & Usage

- Behave properly; show the manners you were taught (saying/imperative)

Mama:

Act like you got some raisin’ in here, you hear?

Child:

Yes ma’am.

variations: act like you got some raisin’, act like you got some raising, act like you’ve been raised right

★ "Raisin’" here means upbringing, not the dried fruit. It’s one of the most Southern ways to say "behave like you were raised right." ★

Origin

Documented throughout the South and Appalachia as early as the mid-20th century. "Raisin’" is the clipped, dialect form of "raising," which in Southern English means "upbringing" or "family training." The phrase reflects the cultural importance of manners, family reputation, and community standards.

Notes

Act like you got some raisin’ - classic Southern/Appalachian imperative telling someone to show manners and upbringing.
Commonly used by elders toward children in public or formal settings like church, school, or family gatherings.
Highlights the Southern emphasis on public conduct and reflecting well on one’s family.
May be said in jest among friends, but originated as a serious reminder to behave.
Still widely recognized and used, with "raisin’" as the authentic dialect form and "raising" as the search-friendly spelling.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "raisin’" here mean the fruit?

No - it’s the Southern/Appalachian way of saying "raising" or "upbringing."

Is "act like you got some raisin’" still used today?

Yes - especially among older Southerners, but widely understood as a hallmark Southernism.

What’s the difference between "act like somebody" and "act like you got some raisin’"?

Both tell someone to behave, but "act like you got some raisin’" specifically emphasizes your family upbringing.

...