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Tickled to Death

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "Tickled to Death" means extremely pleased or delighted - an emphatic way to say "I’m thrilled" or "I’m overjoyed."

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #PeopleandRelationships   #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...
'Tickled to death' is really common around here. Didn't really think about how negative it sounds, but it's a good thing. 

Pronunciation

[TIK-uhld tuh DETH] /ˈtɪkəld tə dɛθ/

Meaning & Usage

- Extremely pleased or delighted (expression)

Pearl:
She said yes?
Jeb:
Yep - I was tickled to death when she did.
variations: Thrilled, Overjoyed, Delighted, Extremely Pleased
★ Adding "to death" is a common Southern/Appalachian intensifier ("scared to death," "pleased to death"). "Tickled to death" is the most famous example, meaning you’re absolutely delighted. ★

Origin

From the older English use of "tickle" meaning "delight or gratify." The "to death" intensifier emerged in the American South during the 19th century and became a hallmark of rural speech.

Notes

Still widely heard in Southern/Appalachian speech, often as a genuine expression of joy or surprise. Outside the region it’s understood but sounds quaint or folksy.

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it natural: "tickled to death" - usually said with a smile or laugh. Sometimes shortened to "tickled" but with "to death" added for emphasis.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "tickled to death" literally mean someone died?
No - "to death" is an intensifier, like "thrilled to bits."
Is it still used today?
Yes - especially in rural areas and among older speakers, but younger Southerners recognize it too.
Can you also use "tickled pink"?
Yes - that’s another variation meaning "very pleased," also found nationwide.
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