Looked Like the North End of a Southbound Horse
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "looked like the north end of a southbound horse" is a humorous way of saying someone looked rough, foolish, or like the back end of something-without using a crude word.
#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Animals #PeopleandRelationships #OldTimers #Southern #FarmTalk
I've got an old timer friend that I've heard say, 'like the north end of a southbound horse' as a less in-your-face way of describing somebody's looks. So you still hear it. I've got an old timer friend that I've heard say, 'like the north end of a southbound horse' as a less in-your-face way of describing somebody's looks. So you still hear it. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- To look rough, foolish, or disheveled (humorous insult)
He’s been at that fence all day?Yep-he looks like the north end of a southbound horse now.Origin and Etymology
Found in mid-20th-century Southern and cowboy humor books, this expression is strongest in the South, South Midland, and rural equine culture. It reflects a long tradition of directional euphemisms ("south end of a northbound mule") in Appalachian and Southern speech.
Usage Notes
Still heard today from older speakers in rural communities. Outside the region it’s recognizable as colorful folk humor but not as common.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it natural: often shortened to "looked like the north end of a southbound hoss."