Pronunciation: [kˈuːnz ˈe͡ɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "coons age" may seem strange, but it actually has a phonetic explanation. The first word, "coons," is a shortened form of "raccoons" and is pronounced as [kunz]. The second word, "age," is pronounced [eɪdʒ]. Together, the phrase is pronounced [kunz eɪdʒ] and means a long period of time. While the origin of the phrase is unclear, it has been used in American English since the 1800s.
"Coon's age" is an idiomatic phrase predominantly used in American English as a colloquial expression to describe a long and indeterminate period of time. The term is derived from the word "coon," which is a shortened form of "raccoon." In this phrase, "age" is employed metaphorically to emphasize a significant duration rather than an actual lifespan.
The phrase "coons age" is often used to imply that a considerable amount of time has passed since a particular event or occurrence. It carries connotations of durability, endurance, and longevity, suggesting that the period referred to as a "coons age" is notably long, even if the exact duration is uncertain. While the phrase originally had a rural or regional usage, it has become more widespread in contemporary informal speech across different regions of the United States.
"Coon's age" is an example of vernacular American English that is rooted in colloquial culture and is often used in informal conversation or storytelling. It is worth noting that the phrase may carry racial undertones due to its origin, as the term "coon" has historically been used as a derogatory slang term for African Americans. However, in the context of "'coon's age," it is generally understood as a harmless colloquialism referring to an extended period of time rather than having any racial connotation.
The term "coon's age" is a colloquial expression commonly used in the United States, especially in the South and Midwest regions. It refers to a long period of time, generally implying a considerable length of time or a very long time indeed.
The etymology of the term "coon's age" is associated with the raccoon, a nocturnal mammal native to North America. In the early 1800s, "coon" was a shortened version of "raccoon" that became a slang term for the animal.
At some point, the phrase "as old as a coon" or "raccoon's age" emerged, suggesting that raccoons live for a significant amount of time. In the wild, raccoons can live up to 3-5 years on average, with some individuals surviving for longer periods. However, the exact origins of the phrase "coon's age" are unclear.
