Shuckin' and jivin'

From Free net encyclopedia

Shuckin' and Jivin' , a term popularized amongst African Americans of North America primarily, loosely means "to sit around in a group, outdoing each other with lies and exaggerations."

Its origin is unknown, however it most likely originated during the US Slavery period, when African Americans were forced to perform menial labor. To entertain themselves, they were probably taken to playing games similar to playing the dozens or telling tall tales while performing work, such as shucking corn. See also Jive.

Nowadays Shuckin' and Jivin' can also refer to a group of busybodies or other foolish people. For example, "Those guys are always down by the store, shuckin' and jivin' about the new family's business."