Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tar-heel

Noun

/ˈtɑːr hiːl/

Definition

A term used to refer to a person from North Carolina, particularly in connection with the state’s basketball team and culture.

Examples

The Tar Heels are a collegiate basketball team representing the University of North Carolina.
As a proud Tar Heel, she proudly wore her Carolina blue jersey during the game.

Meaning

The phrase ‘tar heel’ historically referred to workers in North Carolina’s tar and pitch industries. Over time, it has come to represent pride and identity for the people of North Carolina.