# hillbilly

/ˈhɪɫbɪɫi/ (US) · /hˈɪlbɪlˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hillbilly
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a person from a rural area who lives a simple or poor life. This word is often used to describe someone who is not well-educated or who lives far away from cities.

For teachers: a person from a rural, often poor, and typically isolated area, especially in the United States. Frequently carries a derogatory or stereotypical connotation regarding social class and education.

## Examples

- The movie features a hillbilly family living in the mountains.
- The documentary explores the lives of hillbilly communities in the Appalachian region and their connection to the land.
- While some hillbilly stereotypes focus on a lack of sophistication, the reality is often a deep-rooted cultural identity shaped by geographic isolation and a distinct oral tradition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.