Good Night a-Livin’!

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "Good night a-living!" is an old-time exclamation of surprise, frustration, or amazement. It’s a colorful phrase you’d mostly hear from older generations.

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #OldTimers #Southern #Exclamations #Euphemisms

synonyms: good grief, heavens above, well I never, land sakes

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I've only read 'Good night a-living!,' so I'm assuming it's more regional and old timers.

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I've only read 'Good night a-living!,' so I'm assuming it's more regional and old timers.

Pronunciation

[GUD nahyt uh-LIV-in]
/ɡʊd naɪt əˈlɪvɪn/

Meaning & Usage

- Exclamation of surprise, shock, or frustration (interjection)

Clara:

The preacher’s here already!

Elmer:

Good night a-living! I ain’t even got my shoes on.

Origin and Etymology

First recorded in Southern and Appalachian speech in the early 20th century. The phrase uses "a-living" as an intensifier - a creative flourish common in rural exclamations. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it’s part of the South’s tradition of colorful, folksy outbursts.

Usage Notes

Most common among older Southerners; younger generations may recognize it but rarely use it.
Often expresses mild shock, irritation, or disbelief - more colorful than angry.
Closely related to other Southern exclamations like Heavens to Betsy and Great day in the morning!

Kin Topics

Common Questions

What does "Good night a-living" mean?

It’s an exclamation of surprise, shock, or frustration - like saying "Good grief!"

Is it really Southern?

Yes. While not common outside the South, it appears regularly in older Southern/Appalachian writing and oral speech.

Do people still say it today?

It’s mostly heard among older speakers. Younger Southerners might use it jokingly, but it’s widely recognized as an old-timey Southernism.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, October 2). Good Night a-Living!. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/good-night-a-living
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Good Night a-Living!." HillbillySlang.com, 2 Oct. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/good-night-a-living.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Good Night a-Living!." HillbillySlang.com. October 2, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/good-night-a-living.

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