   Hug Your NeckIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "hug your neck" is a warm way of saying "give you a hug." It emphasizes affection at the point of parting or greeting, often from older generations. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #People&Relationships #Southern Hillbilly Dude Says...  I don't know any Granny growin' up that didn't say 'lemme hug your neck before you go.' It's still in use today out in the country. Pronunciation[HUG yer neck] Meaning & Usage- A friendly or affectionate embrace (idiom)
Mae:
Thanks for stoppin’ by.
Earl:
Come here and let me hug your neck.- A cultural marker of warmth (idiom, cultural use)
Mae:
When Granny seen me, first thing she done was hug my neck.other spellings: lemme hug your neck ★ Necks weren’t singled out for hugs - it’s just the Southern/Appalachian way of saying "give you a hug," often with an extra dose of tenderness. ★ OriginLikely developed in rural Southern and Appalachian families, where kinship terms and affectionate phrases carried a strong physical sense. "Hug your neck" became the natural shorthand for giving someone a hug. NotesStill common today in Appalachian and Southern families, especially among older generations. Outsiders often find it quaint or poetic, but within the region it’s an everyday expression of love. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "hug yer neck." Often said gently, almost like a blessing. | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
Slang and folklore change from place to place - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use →
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content may not be reused without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home