It is pelting down. And that while for the most part, people are speaking English, there are certain Irish slang words and phrases that may leave you baffled and confused. Whats the craic? This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Giving out literally translates as to whine. 111: My favorite Irish slang expressions Irish Slang Words, Grand (an iconic bit of Irish slang) (an iconic bit of Irish slang), Cut it some slack (one of my favourite Irish phrases), Giving out (I recently learned that this expression is an Irish one), St Patrick's Day Origin - What is The Meaning Behind St Patrick's Day, 1222: Jokes and slang from Ireland that my nonIrish friends didnt understand when we first met , Common Irish proverbs that you hear every day from 23 to 36 , Craic, the most misunderstood Irish slang (verses 3740) , Common Irish expressions to use when referring to someone you dont like, from 41 to 56 , Dope (a word my aul lad frequently uses in Irish slang!) Meaning: (Phrase) The Irish phrase be wide is what the locals used to tell a person to be careful. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Where's your mot? Jesus, Mary and Joseph This is one of those Irish things to say that every Irish mammy will utter, over and over again. You jammy sod Meaning you are very lucky. Meaning: (Noun) A pox is a slang used in Ireland for a person who causes nuisance. . Example: You went to the beach? Story horse? Meaning: (Expression) The Irish phrase give it a lash is used to encourage a person to pursue something or give it a go.. The island comprises lush fields, but thousands of years ago, it was covered in a thick blanket of ice. Usually only used informally among friends. 5863 Irish Slang Words, 20 Famous Funny Irish Sayings to Get You Laughing, [Ireland Attractions] Top Places to Visit in Ireland in 2023, Four Countries With A GREEN WHITE ORANGE Flag (and their meanings), Is Wicklow Worth Visiting? To learn more about affiliate links, read my Disclosure Policy here. If you want to visit Ireland and experience the culture, food, and history of the country, then you should get to know Irish slang words so you can sound like an Irish person. THE IRISH WAY with words is a complex one. Meaning: (Adjective) The word gombeen comes from the old Irish language that is used to describe a person who is dodgy. Example: The man you were with is gombeen. Ribena is a blackcurrant dilutable very popular in Ireland. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! Leg it This is used to tell someone to run. Its pissing down today. Fair play! One more gentle one. Its lashing/bucketing outside Means it is pouring with rain outside. Even more deadly slang that is unique to Ireland and the Irish. For instance, That lads just a goon,. For example, Richard says I got you a pint cause I was at the bar to which Mick responds sound. Irish Slang Words, Irish proverbs for describing the weather, pp. For instance, Hes banjxxed, sure hes been on the pints all day.. Youll hear this being asked of people who are hungover after a heavy night. But don't be too proud when someone calls you by this term. Example: Youre acting like a goon! Im not sure when hell be back. Like, Ill see you in 20. I must first gather the messages. Its finely stopped pissing down. The day is suitable for drying. Used when it is raining especially hard outside. This way, you wont have a hard time understanding locals that often use Irish expressions. The most useless scut Ive ever seen. This guide to Irish slang words and phrases, insults, and expressions will assist you in deciphering some of what the locals are saying while in Ireland. Meaning: (Adjective) To many of us, deadly means something dangerous that could lead to death when done. a term from old Irish slang used to describe a chancer. If you love the series Father Ted, then youll hear this expression often used throughout the series. For instance, She wants to be f****d out of the club. She is arranged in rags. But he was raging with her means he was so angry with her. Example: Tell the kids to come in now because its rotten. Surely your feet are dragging. It can also sometimes be used instead of thanks. Meaning: (Expression) Cmere to me is an expression that has a few meanings. Pronounced as ki-togue, it is an Irish slang that usually refers to a left-handed person. Example: Why dont we go on dander and have a picnic? Meaning: (Verb) The Irish slang shifting is used when two people are making out. Youll often hear Irish mammies say ah feck instead of the f-word around kids. Example: Let me see the video again. Translation: Im not planning on getting absolutely hammered, but one might very well turn into 15. She might get upset even if its only a joke. Example: Im glad we met your mot. I cant be arsed. Meaning: (Noun) Gowl is another word for eejit that is used as an insult in Ireland. Grand This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. Cant stop, Im sorry. Rainey weather type. Hold on for a moment, and Ill pass it to you right away! She was down here last Sunday, for instance. Work on your Irish accent, practicing the inflection and sound of consonants and vowels. Meaning: Well done!Example of usage and translation: Jaysus, you did well there, good woman yourself! = Jesus man, well done, congratulations!, Meaning: ThingyExample of usage and translation: Wheres that yoke gone? = Where has that random thing gone that I was looking for?, Meaning: My girlfriendNote: You can also refer to a group of females as mots., Meaning: VeryExample of usage and translation: Its fierce windy out = Its very windy outside, Meaning: Equivalent the F wordExample of usage and translation: wheres me bleedin phone? = Where my F****** phone?, Meaning: That sucks / How unfortunate for you. Meaning: (Adjective) Kip is another slang term in Ireland used in everyday speech that means dirty. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Cath is an Irish expat now living in Portugal. Youre a savage! Lets go to some place exciting. Example: Gosh, she was stumbling out of the pub last night. 25. Wow, what a dope. Be wide, my friend! Meaning: (Noun) A young wan is Irish slang word for a young lady, maybe a teenager. Hes a gowl and a half that boy, for instance. Irish slang is a rich verbal tradition rooted in the hard and hearty struggles of the Irish people, who are predominantly Celtic in ethnicity. Meaning: (Expression) The Irish expression grand is used as a response to questions like How are you?, How are you doing? and many more. During a trip to Northern Ireland, where we visited way too many pubs, I frequently heard the word cracking used. Hed been in the middle of something on his computer, but when he turned around to me, I said come here to me (ie the first phrase) and his response was Im listening, havent I turned around. For instance, Since she got home and saw what the dog did to the couch in the living room, shes been up to 90.. Example: We were hammered last night, but I loved every minute of it! Meaning: (Noun) The term oul fella is an older man. Although I personally dont use the word feck, it is one of my favorites because it is associated with the wonderful Father Ted series. After that, we all returned to Sharons. The Jacks An Irish slang word for the toilet. Im interested in 18th century Irish slang, particularly the word they used to make denigrating remarks about the British. Meaning: (Adjective) The Irish slang all lured denotes a feeling of delight towards someone or something. . Add your Slang. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Use with caution as these Irish slang phrases can range from mild to offensive. Meaning: (Greeting) The term hows the form? is a greeting when you unexpectedly see a friend you havent spoken to in a while. For instance, Stop, I know. Meaning: (Noun) Ciotog is Irish Gaelic for left-handed people. Say, That chicken fillet roll was class, for instance. Gobshite - An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person. Ever. Example: Wow, your boyfriend sure is dead on! 2. Rainey weather type. Example: Wow, this hotel is the good of it! Example: The craic was 90 at your birthday party last night! It is a book containing the gallows speeches from over 100 offenders. Example: Finally, its a good day for drying! Scundered/scunnered - different meanings depending on your location 16. Gammy : Useless. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyone's breath away. HEY. When absolutely no fun was being had, it was said to be minus craic, which is the complete opposite of having the craic. For instance, Last night, we went to the new club. You are such a gobshite! Example: How ya doin, hey? Example: Why are going out with a midden? Meaning: (Adjective) Dead on is a phrase used when a person is hot or good-looking. Meaning: (Noun) The word wean is used to identify a small child. 15 Things That Might Amaze You, The Two Fascinating Capitals of Ireland Dublin and Belfast, What is a Banshee? I might come here more. Brit: A member of the British armed forces. Ill burst ye Can be used to indicate youre going to swing for someone/hit them. Example: Dont be such a pox. Hes a right chancer This Irish term is used when talking about someone who chances their arm. Example: Houl yer whisht! This term is used for an acquaintance and even for your father. 2. For instance, Last night was a serious one, but I was out of it and ordered 7 bags of chips on the way home.. Meaning: This is not a threat, but a person offering a lift to another person. He is an absolute melter. Learn more? Oh, I do. Meaning: (Noun) In Irish words, The jacks means toilet. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. You'll often hear "he's an awful eejit" meaning he's a bit dumb. For instance, All those guys do is sit around and play Xbox. They are two dryshitters. Example: Its minus craic here. Meaning: (Noun) A sleeveen is a person whos often rogue. Meaning: (Adjective) Gas, in Irish slang, is not the gas we used to operate a car or cook our food. Example: Dont forget your raincoat and boots. He spends his day traveling between the bookies and the pub, for instance. Kip This Irish slang word has two meanings. It also means good.. My stomach hurts so badly. This term is used as a derogatory word. There are only a few left-handed people compared to right-handed people even today. Another relatively calm one. What a complete jerk. Get up the yard 13. Meaning: (Adjective) The word savage originally means a person who is wild or untamable that has no manners or decency. It is mostly heard in Northern Ireland. I know. . He does appear to be possessed, flying around the garden. Thank you so much is what thanks a million means. Its bucketing down outside. Did I mess up? or Ive never tried that before, but Ill definitely give it a lash. She only needed four years. Example: I cant believe youre graduating with the highest remarks. When something (or someone) is not functioning properly, it is said to be broken. For instance, She ultimately passed her exams. one who is uninteresting. The hostel were staying in is a kip and a half, for instance! My advice is not to use them unless you are certain of their meaning and the situation is appropriate. Shite Meaning shit, rubbish or pants. It can mean someone is an idiot, a bit silly or just plain stupid. I cant understand the news! I dont know, but it sounds like some Irish slang Ive heard my entire life. Meaning: (Expression) Its rotten is another way of saying its raining in Ireland. When you arrive in Ireland, particularly for the first time, you may be forgiven for thinking youve landed on an alien planet. For instance, Cmon. We should go outside and get some fresh air. The TV is banjaxed simply means its not working. Meaning: (Noun) In Irish slang, the word clown is a person who is silly and loves to joke all the time. Why? For instance, Last night, her new fella was here. Donkeys years Used to refer to a very long time. Wind yer neck in - shut up 17. If you fall and break your legs, dont come running to me! . Meaning: (Expression) The phrase Its pure shit means that its a rainy day. drunk and banned. The weather is fine. Example: Its so sad to see a shitehawk, but I have no money to spare. Give it a lash This is used to tell someone to give it a go, try it, give it a whirl. Courtin = Dating (term commonly used in Northern Ireland). That young lad was acting the maggot in here last night.. , It is referred to as a yoke to describe the object. I only have it for a week and its gone to shit. It's worth noting that when someone says that they're 'grand', they may not necessarily be so. Slievene Means a sneaky person. Im at a loss for words for this one. Whats the craic? Therefore, Ireland has been one of the most recommended destinations for people who love to travel and explore the world. Severe illness. Sound A word that can often be used instead of grand or okay. Would you mind helping me carry my belongings? Can also describe someone who takes risks. Jammy essentially means good fortune. These are all bad! Culchie/Langer These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives down the country and isnt a Dub. Mocking is catching If you are mocking or teasing someone about something, be careful karma doesnt come to bite you in the backside! Bring your wishes there. It is often used vulgarly, but can also be used in day-to-day conversations. Meaning: (Adjective) The word gobdaw is Irish slang thats used to describe a stupid person. 125 Irish Slang Words and Phrases to Sound Like a True Local Ireland is the second largest island in the world, just next to Great Britain. Bang on. Irish slang words and phrases and their meaning, Best Things to Do in Donegal, Ireland (County Guide), 15 Prettiest and Best Coastal Towns in Ireland to Visit, https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/1100284, What are the Irish known for? Meaning: (Noun) Fella is Irish slang for a boy or a man at any age. The car wont start, for instance. Fear no more. Nobody knows when the rain will stop in Ireland. Feck/Friggin/Flippin All stem from fuck and are a lesser harsh version. Hes a shnakey little shitehawk, that man. Hewya, me auld segotias An old Irish way of saying hi my friend. It can be subsitited for ah feck but not around little ears! Meaning: (Noun) Baked is another name for the mouth or face. And this is the one that the fantastic Father Ted series popularized. Moderate precipitation. Join the I Left My Heart in Ireland in Our Community on Facebook. Acting the maggot This Irish slang term is used to say someone was acting the eejit, being stupid, fooling around and is often prefaced by the word STOP. This Irish slang has been used for years. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. It has the same meaning in the English language. Dose Means a case of illness. Top 10 Foods in Hawaii You Must Try 2023, [Best Hawaiian Songs] 20+ Most Famous Hawaiian Songs You Need to Hear (2023), Moving to Scotland & Pros and Cons of Living in Scotland, Dos and Donts in Hawaii Planning A Trip to Hawaii 2023, Top 8 Munich Attractions Every Local is Proud Of, Things Not To Do in Melbourne 13 Mistakes Tourists Make, The 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Netherlands 2023, 12 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Hawaii 2023, The History of Scottish Clans & 10 Most Common Scottish Surnames, [Hawaiian Beaches] 21 Best Beaches in Hawaii for a Memorable Trip 2023, [Hawaii Must Do] 21 Best Things To Do in Hawaii 2023. She's only an aul wagon 8. Its definitely Irish slang once more. For instance, That new full-back theyve brought on is pure class.. For instance, Got food at that Indian restaurant. As above, usually instead of saying something like hi buddy, any news. This Irish expression, which is overused and not unique to any one county, is used frequently. Example: Im glad to spend time with you this summer. So much so that I always thought that they WERE Scots. Meaning: (Noun) The word chiseler in the Irish language means a small child or a youngster. Meaning: (Adjective) Locked is another term used when a person is blackout drunk. And I mean heavy rain. rinnai condensate drain installation Likes. Meaning: Stop moaning / complainingNote: To gurn is to complain about a person. Now you are prepared for your trip to Ireland with this dictionary of slang Irish words and phrases, and most importantly, their meanings to ensure you understand what people are saying around you. Cop on to yourself Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. Example: Lets go. Your man who I purchased the car from is a serious Gombeen, I said. Meaning: (Phrase) The phrase one can short of six means that a person is not thinking straight or is not fully present in a certain situation. Our website is full of tips, reviews and travel deals to help you plan your next trip away. Example: You are a fine young lady, so dont let any man break your heart. One of the most famous Irish words is 'grand.' Unfortunately it has a multitude of meanings depending on context. As in, Bout ye, chief! Like a pint? In reality, it can describe anything. You can also use it to respond to a greeting without giving too much away about how you are doing. Meaning: (Expression) A grand aul day is an expression used in Ireland when the weather is perfect. This is said often in my area of Dublin as a bit of humour. Meaning: (Phrase) When you hear someone say sure look, it means it is what it is or a person is bored but does not want to talk more. Shes always giving out means shes always complaining or moaning. Deadly Indicates that something is cool or awesome. That is fatal. Meaning: (Expression) Give me a shot is one of the most common Irish phrases youll hear when youre in Ireland. Example: Im up to high doh about this trip! Burgers for free. We dont want him to see all these drinks. For instance, Hes a terrible latchio., In other words, how are you? Meaning: (Noun) A chancer is a person who takes a chance on anything, especially when theres an opportunity for him or her to become successful. Example: Please dont tease me, Im banjaxed. Therefore, this is a particularly derogatory phrase that is used by women only. See how hes pulling a beamer. Example: Shes giving out in the living room, but I dont understand her. Howaya! He thought I was trying to get his attention, even though I already had it. Irish In origin. That was shite can means that was rubbish. For instance, Shes a terrible gobshite., This is yet another mild term for someone who is dense. Yer man is used to refer to a man, but it can also be used when you dont know their name. That lad keeps texting me, for instance. Last night, after Foleys, I was in a hoop. Below, we have 125 Irish slang words and Irish slang phrases you should learn. The term used to describe filthy or dung-filled people. Dope is another word for a stupid person in Ireland. Meaning: (Greeting) The term story horse is used as a greeting and when a person invites you to tell him or her the latest gossip. Ive split these into sections: slang Irish phrases, slang Irish words, Irish expressions used for saying hello, Irish slang phrases for drunk and also Irish slang insults and swear words. This Irish proverb seemed to make perfect sense to me, but apparently not. Im having the craic this instant. Meaning: (Expression) The term acting the maggot is when an Irish person deems to mess around instead of doing what he or she is supposed to be doing. Example: I cant stay here a second longer. Can you still walk? Do you mean to say Susans here? So, I actually believed that the term giving out was used widely. I had a wild night last night. Meaning: (Noun) Sangers is the Irish slang for a sandwich. If someone says the craic was 90 it means the fun, laughter and joviality was amazing. The radio is not audible to me. Meaning: (Expression) The expression good woman is an exclamation used when a person is surprised or in disbelief. Example: This food is quality! It can mean fun, goings on or gossip. I clipped the wing mirror off the pillar yesterday, as an illustration. I frequently use this one. This is yet another mild example of Irish slang for someone you dont particularly like. Topic: +100 Irish Slang Words To Sound Like A Local. After more than 400 comments, the following guide was created. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyone's breath away. So, whats the craic? Usually when a child has a near-miss at hurting themselves, youll hear grandparents saying he put the heart across me. This is often combined with howya/hewya, especially in Dublin so you may hear howya, whats the story? as a greeting between people. Its often called squash or cordial in other countries. Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more! Did you see her taking a piss in front of the Garda station?" = "Oh my god, she was a disgrace. Note: A show of optimism that relies on nothing but hope. Why? A bit like some of these phrases for me! One of the most enjoyable posts Ive written in a while was this one. . Consider it to be somewhat of an Irish slang translator. For some strange reason, the shopping or the groceries are referred to as the messages in Ireland. Sure look, what can ye do? is one example. Buncrana: A popular holiday destination. You could eat in Jacks and feel safer. When someone is Acting the maggot, they are dossing or messing around, which means they are not carrying out their intended task. The jacks is also. Please share your feedback in the box below. Meaning: (Noun) Latchio is a form of derogatory word used for a male person with a low social status. Example: Lets go home. Or a little shady. Example: I have never seen these people in the city. Meaning: (Expression) The expression houl yer whisht is used when a person is trying to tell others to keep quiet. Example: Cmere to me and tell me why your mother is furious again. , Irish proverbs for describing the weather, pp. Gas If an Irish person says Thats gas, they are not referring to an actual gas, they mean something is funny! For instance, use your umbrella to Gway out of that. I heard from Noley that you were attending to your hemorrhoids. Additionally, it occasionally tends to lead to some confusion. It means good.. It can often be heard from irritated parents telling off their offspring. Dont go anywhere alone with him. 10. Meaning: Youre a disgraceExample of usage and translation: Oh my god, she was an absolute state. Dryshite A term used to describe someone who is boring, really boring. Example: Go and bollox if you think you can get me to agree with you. Boke: Vomit. If you hear this, prepare for a long story about someone else and it is guaranteed to include some secrets or gossip about the person being discussed. Janie (mac) An expression to denote shock or exasperation. Gaff The Irish slang word for house. I'm steamin' - you might hear this at the pub 18. This word is often associated with the expression go and bollox and is deemed offensive. Meaning: (Expression) The expression bout ye means how are you doing? in Irish slang. Something that is dirty is referred to as manky. Example: Are you done with schoolwork? Same as whats the story. This one, which is pronounced Ban-jacks-d, is also for someone who has overindulged significantly. All of these Irish slang words can be used to describe someone who is drunk. Meaning: Oh my God!Explanation: In Ireland, its okay to use the Lords name in vain to express your frustration. Did you see what she posted on Facebook? is an illustration. Example: Get away from me, melter! Meaning: (Phrase) The phrase out of your tree is used when a person is severely drunk that he or she will most likely have a hangover the following day.