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.
#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Measurements #DialectandGrammar #Southern
Hillbilly Dude Says...
Growin' up, I heard 'ain’t much count' plenty - and still do out in the country. 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?
How’s that new hand?
Earl:
He ain’t much count - showed up late twice already.
He ain’t much count - showed up late twice already.- Of poor character or low standing (adjective phrase)
Mae:
Heard about that feller?
Heard about that feller?
Earl:
Yeah - folks say he’s ain’t much count round here.
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 and Etymology
Chiefly South Midland and Appalachian, this term dates back at least to the 19th century and reflects older British and American English usage ("of no account" meaning "worthless").
Usage 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.
advertisement...
Most Popular
About
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...Slang, folklore, culture, and accent vary from place to place, even ridge to ridge - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use • Privacy Policy
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content not for reproduction or AI training without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home