   Sicker’n a DogIn Appalachian and Southern talk, "sicker than a dog" (often clipped to "sicker’n a dog") means very sick or miserable. It’s a colorful exaggeration that turns ordinary sickness into plainspoken drama. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #People&Relationships #Southern Hillbilly Dude Says...  Nobody want's to be 'sicker’n a dog' - and that's how most folks would phrase it. Pronunciation[SICK-ur ’n a DAWG] Meaning & Usage- Very sick, unwell, or miserable (adjective phrase)
Mae:
Why didn’t you come to church?
Earl:
I was sicker’n a dog from somethin’ I ate.other spellings: sick as a dog ★ "Sicker’n a dog" doesn’t mean anything about actual dogs - it’s just country exaggeration. The clipped "’n" is what makes it feel especially Southern/Appalachian. ★ OriginThe phrase "sick as a dog" dates back to at least the 1700s in English, when dogs were often seen as dirty or prone to illness. In the South and Appalachia, the form "sicker’n a dog" took root and became part of everyday porch talk. NotesCommon throughout English, not just Southern - but the clipped form "sicker’n a dog" carries a strong Southern and Appalachian flavor. Still heard often today, especially in family talk and storytelling. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "sick-er ’n a dawg." The "than" is shortened to "’n," which gives it that Southern/Appalachian ring. | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
 |