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Ugly as Homemade Sin

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "ugly as homemade sin" means extremely unattractive. It’s a humorous, colorful way to exaggerate how unpleasant something looks.

#SouthernSayings   #Appalachia   #People&Relationships   #Southern

Pronunciation

[UHG-lee az HOHM-mayd sin]

Meaning & Usage

- Extremely unattractive (simile)

Talking about a dress
Mae:
What’d you think of that outfit?

Earl:
It was ugly as homemade sin.

- Figurative use for anything unpleasant or rough

Describing a car
Mae:
That thing runs?

Earl:
Yeah, but it’s ugly as homemade sin.

★ This phrase is usually playful or teasing, not meant to be cruel. It adds humor to criticism by using an over-the-top comparison. ★

Origin

"Homemade sin" suggests something especially rough or unrefined, with "ugly" as the punch. It grew out of Southern rural humor, combining exaggeration with moral language.

Notes

Still used in the South and Appalachia, especially among older generations. Younger folks may prefer milder versions, but the saying is still recognized for its wit.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "ugly as homemade sin." Stretched out a little on "ugly."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "ugly as homemade sin" only apply to people?
No - it can describe clothes, furniture, cars, or anything unpleasant-looking.
Why "homemade" sin?
It exaggerates the idea of sin by making it sound even rougher and uglier.
Is it offensive?
It can be sharp if aimed at a person, but most often it’s used in a joking, good-natured way.
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