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Grinnin’ Like a Possum Eatin' a Sweet Tater

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "grinnin’ like a possum" means smiling widely, often with pride, mischief, or slyness. The image comes from opossums baring their teeth, which looks like a big grin.

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #FoodandDrink   #Animals   #Southern   #FarmTalk   #BodyandHealth

Hillbilly Dude Says...
We still say 'grinnin’ like a possum' - and some will add 'eatin’ a sweet tater.' 

Pronunciation

[GRIN-in like uh POSS-um]

Meaning & Usage

- Smiling widely, sometimes slyly (saying)

Mae:
Why you grinnin’ like a possum?
Earl:
Won the raffle, that’s why!
variations: grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater, smilin’ wide, cheesin’, toothy grin, smilin’ proud, smirkin’
★ The phrase can be affectionate ("he’s happy as can be") or teasing ("look at him grinnin’ like a possum, up to somethin’"). ★

Origin

From the opossum, a nocturnal animal common in the South and Appalachia. When startled or feeding, they often bare their teeth, which looks like a big grin. By the 1800s, "grinnin’ like a possum" was a popular rural simile.

Notes

Still common in Appalachian and Southern speech. The longer form "grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater" adds humor and is still heard today.

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it quick: "grinnin’ like a possum." Drop the "g" in "grinning."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does it mean a happy grin or a sly grin?
Both - it can mean happy, proud, or a little sneaky.
Do people still say it today?
Yes, it’s still a colorful Southern/Appalachian saying.
Why a possum?
Because possums naturally bare their teeth in a way that looks like they’re grinning.
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