   Daggum!In Appalachian and Southern speech, "daggum" is a folksy exclamation used for emphasis - to show surprise, frustration, or admiration without harsh cussin’. Hillbilly Dude Says...  Not only do I use 'daggum!' regularly, but I also hear Angus Young in my head screamin' in ACDC's 'Big Gun' - 'Daggum! Daggum!' Pronunciation[DAG-uhm] Meaning & Usage- Exclamation / Emphasis (interjection)
Earl:
Daggum! I left my hat in the truck again.
Mae:
That’s a daggum pretty quilt you stitched.other spellings: daggum, dadgum, and doggum ★ "Daggum" is versatile - it can mean you’re mad, impressed, or just filling space in a sentence. The tone of voice tells the story more than the word itself. ★ OriginA softened form of something blasphemous turned into a polite minced oath. Scots-Irish settlers and early Southerners favored softened curses like "doggone," "dadgum," and "dadgummit" so they could vent without swearing outright. Notes"Daggum" stands on its own more often than "dadgummit." You’ll hear it in playful teasing, mild annoyance, or exaggeration. It’s common in rural speech, old TV shows, and modern Southern storytelling. Say It Like a SouthernerSay "dag" quick and sharp, then let "uhm" roll out easy, almost like "gum." It usually comes out in one breathy burst, with the emphasis on "dag." | 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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