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Hoppin’ Mad

In Appalachian and Southern talk, "hoppin’ mad" (commonly written "hopping mad") means extremely angry. It paints a picture of somebody so upset they could practically jump up and down.

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #PeopleandRelationships   #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...
I've heard 'spittin man' more than hoppin’ mad, so it could be regional. 

Pronunciation

[HOP-pin mad]

Meaning & Usage

- Extremely angry (adjective phrase)

Mae:
Why’s Uncle Joe slammin’ doors?
Earl:
He’s hoppin’ mad ‘cause the tractor won’t start.

- Worked up or agitated (figurative)

Mae:
Coach looked hoppin’ mad at that call.
variations: real mad, mad as fire, fit to be tied, "so mad I could spit", hoppin’ mad as a wet hen, just plain hoppin’ mad
★ "Hoppin’ mad" is family-friendly and colorful. It exaggerates anger in a playful way, making it perfect for storytelling. ★

Origin

Likely from the imagery of someone hopping around in frustration, combined with "mad" for angry. Common in rural and Southern English, passed down through everyday speech.

Notes

Still widely heard in the South and Appalachia, especially in family stories. Outsiders understand it easily, but it carries a down-home, old-timey ring.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "hop-pin mad." The final "g" in "hopping" is dropped, making it "hoppin’."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "hoppin’ mad" mean just a little upset?
No - it means really angry, often exaggerating the level of upset.
Is it only Southern?
Strongest in Southern and Appalachian speech, but used and understood across the U.S.
Do people still say it today?
Yes - though a bit old-fashioned, it’s still a recognizable way to say "furious."
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