  Big Ol’ HugIn Appalachian and Southern talk, "big ol’ hug" means a strong, hearty embrace. It emphasizes size and warmth - not just a hug, but a squeeze full of love. Hillbilly Dude Says...  Gimme a "big ol' hug" is in everday speeach. That's the best kind of hug really. Pronunciation[big ohl huhg] Meaning & Usage- Strong embrace (noun phrase)
Mae:
Come here, I ain’t seen you in months.
Earl:
C’mere for a big ol’ hug.- Affection / warmth (noun phrase)
Ruby:
She was cryin’ somethin’ awful.
Estel:
Gave her a big ol’ hug to settle her down.other spellings: bear hug, squeeze, embrace, good ol’ hug, and big hug ★ "Big ol’ hug" isn’t about size alone - it’s about the strength of affection. It’s what you give kin, friends, and folks you’ve missed. ★ Origin"Big ol’" is a Southern/Appalachian intensifier that makes anything sound larger or stronger. Paired with "hug," it became a stock phrase for an embrace that’s bigger than the ordinary. NotesYou’ll hear "big ol’ hug" in Appalachian families, churches, and gatherings. It shows up in country music and pop culture too, reinforcing its role as a warm, down-home phrase. Say It Like a SouthernerDraw out the middle: "big OL’ hug." Said with affection, it makes the hug sound larger than life. | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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