Ain’t Much Count

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "ain’t much count" means "not worth much" or "of little value or reliability." It’s the mountain form of "no account," preserved from older English.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

Growin' up, I heard 'ain’t much count' plenty - and still do out in the country.

Pronunciation

[AYNT much KOUNT]

Meaning & Usage

- Of little value, not reliable, not good quality (adjective phrase)

Mae:

How’s that new hand?

Earl:

He ain’t much count - showed up late twice already.

- Of poor character or low standing (adjective phrase)

Mae:

Heard about that feller?

Earl:

Yeah - folks say he’s ain’t much count round here.

variations: no account, ain’t no count, not worth much, no good

★ "Ain’t much count" comes from an older English sense of "account" meaning "value." Appalachia and the South dropped the "ac-," leaving "count." It’s a classic mountain expression for calling something or someone no good. ★

Origin

Documented in the Dictionary of American Regional English as chiefly South Midland and Appalachian. Dates back at least to the 19th century. Reflects older British and American English usage ("of no account" = "worthless").

Notes

Still heard today in Appalachian and Southern rural talk. Outside the region it may be unknown or confused with "ain’t much account."

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it plain and quick: "ain’t much count." The "count" rhymes with "mount," and the phrase rolls together with no pauses.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "ain’t much count" mean the same as "no account"?

Yes - it’s the local form of "of no account" or "not worth much."

Do people still say it today?

Yes - especially older speakers and in storytelling.

Is it unique to Appalachia?

Strongest in Appalachia and the Southern Highlands, though historically present in other rural areas.

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