Every Tub Must Sit on Its Own Bottom
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "Every tub must sit on its own bottom" is an old-time proverb meaning each person must take responsibility for themselves. It’s a classic piece of folk wisdom passed down by older generations.
#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #OldTimers #Proverbs
'Every tub must sit on its own bottom' isn't one I've heard that I can remembers - so I assume it's regional and old timers. 'Every tub must sit on its own bottom' isn't one I've heard that I can remembers - so I assume it's regional and old timers. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Everyone must take responsibility for themselves (proverb)
Nobody’s gonna pay your rent for you.Yep - every tub must sit on its own bottom.- Each person or project must stand alone (proverb)
They won’t bail you out at that job.Every tub must sit on its own bottom - best learn quick.Origin and Etymology
Collected in Appalachian folk speech since at least the 1800s and noted in WPA oral histories. Strongly associated with the American South and still quoted by older generations.
Usage Notes
Less common among younger speakers today but instantly recognizable to older Southerners. Rare outside the South and Appalachia, which makes it a distinctive regional proverb.
Say It Like a Southerner
Said plain: "every tub must sit on its own bottom." Sometimes "each tub’s gotta sit on its own bottom."