Took a Notion
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "took a notion" means suddenly decided to do something, often on impulse or for no clear reason.
It’s a common storytelling phrase for quick, unexpected decisions.
synonyms: decided suddenly, felt like, had the urge
Hillbilly Dude Says...
I use and hear 'took a notion' - it's pretty common out in the country. Hillbilly Dude Says...
I use and hear 'took a notion' - it's pretty common out in the country. Pronunciation
[TOOK uh NO-shun]
/tʊk ə ˈnoʊ.ʃən/
/tʊk ə ˈnoʊ.ʃən/
Meaning & Usage
- To act on a sudden whim or impulse
Mama:
Why’s he out mowin’ in the dark?
Why’s he out mowin’ in the dark?
Daddy:
Guess he took a notion.
Guess he took a notion.variations: take a notion, got a notion, take the notion
Origin and Etymology
From older English use of "notion" meaning "a whim" or "idea." The phrase "take a notion" or "took a notion" has been recorded in Southern and Appalachian speech since at least the 1800s. It reflects a storytelling rhythm-quick, personal, and lightly humorous-used to explain why somebody did something for no particular reason.
Usage Notes
Used in everyday conversation to describe sudden or impulsive action, often with a grin or shake of the head.
Common across the South, especially among older speakers and in family storytelling.
- "She took a notion to bake six pies at once." → did it suddenly.
- "Every spring I take a notion to plant too many tomatoes." → recurring habit.
Kin Topics
Related Pages
How to Cite This Page
- APA (7th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, October 6). Took a Notion. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/took-a-notion
- MLA (9th edition)"The Hillbilly Dude." "Took a Notion." HillbillySlang.com, 6 Oct. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/took-a-notion.
- Chicago (17th edition)The Hillbilly Dude. "Took a Notion." HillbillySlang.com. October 6, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/took-a-notion.
Most Popular
About
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...