  Gussied UpIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "gussied up" means dressed up fancy, often more than the occasion calls for. It can be playful praise or gentle teasing about someone trying to look extra fine. Hillbilly Dude Says...  I've never used 'gussied up' myself, but I've heard it all my life. Pronunciation[GUH-see’d up] Meaning & Usage- Dressed up in fancy clothes (verb phrase)
Mae:
Look at you, all gussied up!
Earl:
Well, figured I’d shine my boots at least.- Overly dressed for the occasion (verb phrase)
Mae:
Why’s she wearin’ pearls out here?
Earl:
Just likes to get gussied up.other spellings: fancy up, doll up, spruce up, fix up, dressed to the nines, done up, and made up ★ "Gussied up" is often said with a smile - it can be a compliment, but also carries a hint of "you didn’t have to go that far." ★ OriginFirst recorded in the mid-1800s, from "Gussy" - a slang name for someone who dressed flashy. The phrase spread widely but took deepest root in Southern and Appalachian speech. NotesStill heard across the U.S., but especially common in the South and Appalachia. Most often paired with "all" - as in "all gussied up." Used for people more than places or things. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "guss-ee’d up." Often stretched a little for emphasis: "all gussied up." | 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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