Looky There

In Appalachian and Southern country talk, "looky there" (or "lookie there") is an exclamation used to draw attention to something, often with surprise, admiration, or amusement.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

This is one I hear all the time, when something is a pretty big deal. Usually preceded by "well". If you haven't seen somebody in a long time, you might say "well looky there."

Pronunciation

[luhk-uh thair]

Meaning & Usage

- Call Attention (exclamation)

Mae:

Looky there - that fox is bold as brass, walkin’ right up the driveway.

Elmer:

Lookie there at Clyde’s new truck - shiny as a new dime.

variations: lookie there

★ "Looky there" works whether you’re pointing out a sunset, a bargain, or trouble on the horizon. The "lookie" spelling is more phonetic, but "looky" is just as common in dialect writing. ★

Origin

Forms like "looky" and "lookie" come from adding the -y/-ie ending to verbs, a habit in older and rural English that softens the sound and makes it more conversational. The phrase "looky there" has been recorded in American English since at least the 19th century, especially in Southern and Appalachian storytelling.

Notes

The phrase can be used with genuine excitement, gentle teasing, or mock surprise. Context and tone make all the difference.

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it in two easy bursts: LUCK-ee thair. The first word starts like "look," but relax the vowel so it’s closer to "luhk." Keep it light and a little drawn out - the tone should sound like you’re inviting someone else to notice what you see. The "there" is quick and natural, without over-pronouncing the "r."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Which is correct - "looky there" or "lookie there"?

Both are accepted in dialect writing. "Looky" is slightly more common in print, while "lookie" reflects the exact pronunciation for some speakers.

Is it ever used sarcastically?

Yes - a dry "looky there" can poke fun at something obvious.

Do people outside the South use it?

Occasionally, but it’s most at home in Southern, Appalachian, and rural Midwestern speech.

Is it the same as "look there"?

Essentially, but "looky/lookie there" is friendlier and more expressive.

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