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."

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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.

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 and Etymology

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.

Usage 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

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.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 23). Tickled to Death. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/tickled-to-death
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Tickled to Death." HillbillySlang.com, 23 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/tickled-to-death.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Tickled to Death." HillbillySlang.com. September 23, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/tickled-to-death.

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