Good Night a-Living!

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

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.

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

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.

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

Kin Words, Stories and More

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.

...