This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
hillbilly
[ hil-bil-ee ]
/ ˈhɪlˌbɪl i /
See the most commonly confused word associated with hillbilly
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun, plural hill·bil·lies.
a term used to refer to a person from a backwoods or other remote area, especially from the mountains of the southern U.S. (sometimes used facetiously).
adjective
of, like, or relating to hillbillies: hillbilly humor.
COMPARE MEANINGS
Click for a side-by-side comparison of meanings. Use the word comparison feature to learn the differences between similar and commonly confused words.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
usage note for hillbilly
Hillbilly is often used with disparaging intent and perceived as insulting, implying that a person who lives far away from a town or city lacks culture or education. However, this term is also used in a humorous way without intent to offend, and it is sometimes a positive term of self-reference.
Words nearby hillbilly
Hildesheim, hilding, hill, Hilla, Hillary, hillbilly, hillbilly music, hill climb, hill country, Hillcrest Heights, Hillel
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use hillbilly in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for hillbilly
hillbilly
/ (ˈhɪlˌbɪlɪ) /
noun plural -lies
usually derogatory an unsophisticated person, esp from the mountainous areas in the southeastern US
another name for country and western
Word Origin for hillbilly
C20: from hill + Billy (the nickname)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012