  Madder Than a Wet HenIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "madder than a wet hen" means very angry or upset. It comes from the sight of a chicken flapping and fussing when splashed with water. Hillbilly Dude Says...  Madder'n a old wet hen is sumpin' you'll definitely still hear. Although... we have hens, and they're way madder when they're broody! Pronunciation[MAD-ur than a wet hen] Meaning & Usage- Extremely angry (saying)
Mae:
She was madder'n a old wet hen when she saw the mess.
Earl:
Can’t say I blame her none.★ The phrase works because folks know hens get flustered when wet. It’s a colorful, down-home way of saying "very mad." ★ OriginRooted in farm life. A hen that’s been splashed or dunked will fluff her feathers, squawk, and fuss something fierce. By the 1800s, "madder than a wet hen" was a common American rural saying, especially in the South and Appalachia. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it with rhythm: "madder than a wet hen." Works best when you really stretch "madder." | 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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