Peckerwood vs. Redneck — What's the Difference?

Peckerwood originated as a Southern African American slang adaptation of "woodpecker," turning into a derogatory term aimed at poor white people, often with racist attitudes. On the other hand, redneck is a broader term that initially described farmers with sunburned necks, and while it can carry pejorative connotations, it often embodies a sense of rural pride and working-class ethos.

While peckerwood carries stronger connotations of racism and is closely associated with white supremacy, particularly within prison and gang cultures, redneck more generally suggests rural working-class values and can be used self-referentially with pride among individuals in the rural South. Meanwhile, the term redneck can be seen in a more positive light, embodying traits of self-reliance and a straightforward, no-nonsense attitude.

In popular culture, "redneck" has been reclaimed by some as a symbol of rural pride and cultural identity, featured in music, television, and comedy. Conversely, peckerwood remains largely negative, rarely used outside of contexts highlighting racial tension or derogatory uses.

Both terms have been loaded with racial and class implications, but redneck has undergone a more significant transformation in public perception. While some people still use it derogatorily, others wear it as a badge of honor. Peckerwood, however, has not seen a similar redemption and is less commonly used in everyday language.