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West Virginia hillbillies are called "hoopies" by people
living along the West Virginia border of eastern Ohio. In this
area the word "hoopie" is not only synonymous with, but has
actually replaced the word "hillbilly." The term comes from barrel
making which was a common occupation in the Wheeling, West
Virginia area. Those who made the metal hoops for the barrels were
called "hoopies". Eventually the term "hoopie" became synonymous
with hillbilly.
James Callow comment:
The earliest passage equating hoopie with hillbilly is
dated 1940. See F. G. Cassidy, DARE, s.v. "hoopy."
Where learned: OHIO ; WEST VIRGINIA
| Subject headings: | SPEECH -- Proper Name |
Date learned: 00-00-1960