You Think Fat Meat Ain’t Greasy

In Southern speech, "You think fat meat ain’t greasy" means you’re ignoring something obvious or refusing to believe what should be plain.

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #FoodandDrink #Southern #ScoldingandTeasing

synonyms: you ought to know better, don’t play dumb, it’s plain as day

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I didn't grow up hearin' 'You think fat meat ain’t greasy!' - I've only read it. But it's another good one.

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I didn't grow up hearin' 'You think fat meat ain’t greasy!' - I've only read it. But it's another good one.

Pronunciation

[yoo THINK fat MEET ayn’t GREE-zee]
/ju ˈθɪŋk fæt mit eɪnt ˈɡriːzi/

Meaning & Usage

- Refusing to believe something obvious (saying)

Mae:

He told you that boy was trouble.

Earl:

Yeah, but she thinks fat meat ain’t greasy.

- Ignoring consequences despite clear signs (saying)

Mama:

I done told you three times that stove’s hot!

Mama:

You think fat meat ain’t greasy, don’t you?

variations: you don’t think fat meat’s greasy

★ This saying shows up when someone won’t take a warning seriously. It’s half frustration, half humor - a reminder that the truth is right in front of you. ★

Origin and Etymology

A traditional Southern expression comparing an obvious truth to the fact that fat meat is naturally greasy. The phrase is documented in 20th-century Southern family talk and remains common in households across the region.

Usage Notes

Used throughout the South, usually by parents, grandparents, teachers, or anyone trying to point out a clear truth someone refuses to accept. Tone decides whether it’s light teasing or a firm warning.

Often used when someone ignores advice or repeated warnings.
Appears most often in moral lessons or family discipline.
The imagery highlights how obvious the point should be.

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does it mean someone is foolish?

Not exactly - it means they’re ignoring what should be obvious.

Is it always scolding?

Usually, but it can also be playful if spoken with a grin.

Do Southerners still use it today?

Yes - especially in the Deep South and in families who keep older expressions alive.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, December 10). You Think Fat Meat Ain’t Greasy. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/you-think-fat-meat-aint-greasy
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "You Think Fat Meat Ain’t Greasy." HillbillySlang.com, 10 Dec. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/you-think-fat-meat-aint-greasy.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "You Think Fat Meat Ain’t Greasy." HillbillySlang.com. December 10, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/you-think-fat-meat-aint-greasy.