hit the road
To leave, or to start a trip.
Also called hit the trail.
Updated September 24, 2026
hit the road pronunciation
/hit thuh ROAD/
Meaning
Means you are done hanging around and it is time to go. Around rural Southern folks it often means packing up the truck, saying bye on the porch, and getting back on the blacktop. Said friendly, it is "we better hit the road." Said sharp, "Hit the road!" means get out.
How folks use it
- “We better hit the road before that storm rolls in.”
- “Supper was good, but we need to hit the road.”
Origin and etymology
American slang from the late 1800s for setting out on a journey. Early print uses talk about hitting the road for home. The idea is feet, hooves, or tires striking the road as you leave. Ray Charles later made "Hit the Road Jack" famous as a boot-out line.
Frequently asked questions
Is hit the road always rude?
No. "Let's hit the road" is usually just time to leave. "Hit the road!" by itself can mean go away.