People from rural areas (often considered unsophisticated), or a surname; can also be considered a derogatory term.
From 'hick,' which comes from Hickory, a rural area in Virginia, or possibly from the name 'Hicks.' The term emerged in early American English as a dismissive word for rural people.
The word 'hick' became popular in the 1800s when cities were growing fast and city people wanted to feel superior to country people—it's a perfect example of urban vs. rural prejudice baked right into the English language!
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