Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
tarheel
noun
/ˈtɑːr hiːl/
Definition
A nickname for a resident of North Carolina, often used to denote pride in being from the state.
Examples
- The Tar Heels won the NCAA championship this year.
- She proudly identifies as a Tar Heel, having grown up in North Carolina.
- The university’s sports teams are known as the Tar Heels.
Meaning
The term ‘tarheel’ historically refers to the state of North Carolina and its residents, originally stemming from the tar and pitch industry in the area.
Synonyms
- North Carolinian
- Carolinian