As you may know, living south of the Mason Dixon Line has its perks. We have fried chicken, sweet tea, and our own unique vernacular that is sure to make you wish you were a Southern Belle! Some of you may disagree with our Southern ways of life, but

Now that we have gotten that out of the way, let's dive into the rich, colorful, and sassy Southern Slang that, whether you choose to admit it or not, everybody knows and loves!

Not only do Southerns pronounce words differently, as mentioned in a previous article, but we also have certain phrases that are specific to our culture such as:

1. "She's as pretty as a peach, isn't she?"

Let me break this down for our northern neighbors. This is one of the best compliments you could receive from a Southerner! We love our peaches! They are like pizza slices to New Yorkers. To be compared to a sweet, juicy, and colorful peach is, well...peachy!

2. "Time to hunker down!"

Hold on tight. Whatever is about to happen is going to take what seems like forever. To "hunker down" simply means to get down to business and get things done. Southerns never shy away from hard work because we know how to hunker down and finish the task at hand!

3. "Yes Sir, Yes Ma'am."

This is a touchy subject, so put on your big boy britches! I understand that being called "ma'am" may be offensive - actually I don't understand that at all- but please do not get mad at me. It is not a derogatory term. I am not pointing out your age. In fact, we call every female "ma'am" regardless of age. It is purely out of respect. I respect if you do not wish to be called "ma'am", but please respect that I am going to do it anyways because old habits die hard, ma'am.

4. "Hush your mouth!"

Chills would go down my spine every time I was told this as a child. Southern Mamas are full of love and kindness, but never, and I mean never, underestimate the power of these three words coming out of a Southern woman's lips. It's times like these that you nod and say "Yes ma'am."

5. "I've got a hankering for ___."

There is nothing worse than having a hankering for something and not getting what you want. A "hankering" is when you are longing or wishing for something that is usually edible. For example: "I have a hankering for something sweet right now."

6. "I'm stuffed as a tick!"

This saying follows suit shortly after "hankering." Being "stuffed as a tick" is the moment after you've eating three servings at Thanksgiving. You cannot move, you are so full, but oddly you still have just enough room for some of Grandma's sweet potato pie! Am I right?

Before you know it, after practicing these slang phrases a few times you'll practically be a Southerner. Just remember to talk low and slow, respect your elders, say your prayers, and you'll fit right in!