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hoppin John

noun

ˈhäpə̇n-
variants or less commonly hopping John
: a stew of cowpeas, rice, and bacon or salt pork especially popular in the southern states and traditionally served on New Year's Day

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hoppin John was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Hoppin John.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hoppin%20John. Accessed 30 Nov. 2025.

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