Such as, Story horse?! Buzzing: Very happy. I dont know, but it sounds like some Irish slang Ive heard my entire life. 1222: Jokes and slang from Ireland that my nonIrish friends didnt understand when we first met Irish Slang Words, Common Irish proverbs that you hear every day from 23 to 36 Irish Slang Words, Craic, the most misunderstood Irish slang (verses 3740) Irish Slang Words, Common Irish expressions to use when referring to someone you dont like, from 41 to 56 Irish Slang Words, Dope (a word my aul lad frequently uses in Irish slang!) Another relatively calm one. . Example: he yer wan last night gave me her number but I dont remember her name. Learning the most commonly used Irish slang words and phrases can significantly improve your chances of blending in with the community in an instant. This is one of those funny Irish phrases that an Irish parent will shout after their children when they insist on doing something that might hurt them. Example: Get away from that sleeveen! Can also mean someone is a fool. If someone says the craic was 90 it means the fun, laughter and joviality was amazing. Meaning: (Expression) One of the funny Irish phrases today is suckin diesel because who would want to do that, right? Hes a gowl and a half that boy, for instance. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyone's breath away. When my sister told me shed won 50 on a bet during the Irish Grand National my immediate response was you jammy sod. Example: Dont forget your raincoat and boots. We use the same turns of phrase a lot apparently, mind you Im in Dundee which had a huge Irish influx in the 18th & 19th centuries. Sure, yer one was caught shifting yer man last week, for instance. We dont want him to see all these drinks. Meaning: Little brats /little shitsExplanation: shitehawk can be used affectionately. Example: My oul fella wants to join this trip and I said yes. Although I personally dont use the word feck, it is one of my favorites because it is associated with the wonderful Father Ted series. Example: You were with him all night and all you did was lob the gob? Here are some more typical expressions using Irish slang words, from "the messages" to "jammy." The letters For some strange reason, "the shopping" or "the groceries" are referred to as "the messages" in Ireland. Meaning: (Noun) A goon is Irish slang for a man whos so drunk he becomes too loud and too much to handle. That new car Jerry picked up is cracking, for instance. You can also use it to avoid making decisions, using it instead of its up to you. 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. Im not sure when hell be back. Although Ireland became a country that spoke English as its primary language around the turn of the 19th century, the English that is spoken there differs significantly from the original. I don't know, but it sounds like some Irish slang I've heard my entire life. This is a phrase that is frequently used to indicate how long it has been since someone has been seen or something has been done. This way, you wont have a hard time understanding locals that often use Irish expressions. The word comes from how Irish people pronounce idiot.. I will, yes. Another one for extremely inebriated people. Meaning: (Phrase) A cute hoor is used to describe a person who can turn any situation into one that can benefit him or her using crafty ways. Example: Im up to high doh about this trip! Leg it means to move quickly. Meaning: Stop acting upNote: Most often said by ones mother, it basically means stop doing what youre doing right now, or suffer the consequences. Leg it This is used to tell someone to run. 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. According to Irish Central, the craic was 90 signifies "the nirvana of craic," though it can also be used sarcastically. Example: Im glad to see you suckin diesel. Oh, I do. Meaning: (Adjective) Dryshite is used in Ireland to describe a person, thing, or situation that is boring. Additionally, it occasionally tends to lead to some confusion. For instance, She wants to be f****d out of the club. She is arranged in rags. Acting the maggot - messing around Someone acting the maggot is messing around, playing around, or being silly. Did you see her taking a piss in front of the Garda station?" = "Oh my god, she was a disgrace. You appear healthy. a way of describing someone in a good way "he/shes sound", Irish Slang Words, Jokes, Funny Irish images, Irish memes, Irish Sayings, Irish Slang Terms, Irish Phrases and more. Meaning: (Noun) Latchio is a form of derogatory word used for a male person with a low social status. Im having the craic this instant. Example: Howsagoin? Meaning: (Expression) Cmere to me is an expression that has a few meanings. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hes going home to a tongin from the wife. Meaning: (Noun) Yoke is Irish slang that is used to call something with a name you cant remember, even when you think hard enough. Meaning: Shes overly excitedExample of usage and translation: Shes seen Jamie Dornan walking around Belfast and now she up to high doh.. I loved this article, thank you! Be wide, my friend! Muppet Another word for stupid and can be substituted for eejit. See what I did there! Meaning: (Expression) Its rotten is another way of saying its raining in Ireland. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Someone having notions may think they are better than others or their situation is better than it actually is (whether they realise it or not). Example: You have an excellent eye for art. For instance, Stop, I know. If something is inferior or ugly, you cannot change it into something of value or attractive. In Irish slang, people who live in the countryside are called culchie.. Ask me arse Usually said to someone in response to a question to do something. Example: Yer man here needs a bottle of beer. Im very proud of him. Our website is full of tips, reviews and travel deals to help you plan your next trip away. Lashing You'll hear this one on a regular basis in Ireland. Gaff The Irish slang word for house. Meaning: (Phrase) The Irish phrase be wide is what the locals used to tell a person to be careful. The car wont start, for instance. Another lovely Irish expression is banjaxed. Usually when a child has a near-miss at hurting themselves, youll hear grandparents saying he put the heart across me. is really familiar. Lets go on a picnic! To make a long story short This can be used at the start of an explanation but beware, it doesnt always mean itll be a short story. Ive missed you so! Youll often hear Irish mammies say ah feck instead of the f-word around kids. Give it a lash has many different applications. Taking the piss People say someone was taking the piss when they mean they were either being silly/stupid or they are teasing you. But he was raging with her means he was so angry with her. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyones breath away. Meaning: (Expression) The expression the craic was 90 means that a person is having an exceptionally good time. Let me help you with your things. Example: Youre so dope, you cant even pass a simple exam. Youre jammy to find it again. Meaning: (Noun) The word beour is Irish slang for an attractive girl. But you may also hear people refer to someone as Sound when they are endorsing them, as in That guy from around the corner fixed the engine. Hes a good young man. someone who wastes things. Example: "Stop acting the maggot." 24. Is it true that your cousin is getting married just after a few weeks of dating? He still has his communion money Another expression used to describe a person who is tight with their money. When something is so incredible that its difficult to believe it, we use the adjective unreal. Dye see me new runners, for instance. Meaning: (Expression) The expression good of it is another way of saying that something is great. So, I actually believed that the term giving out was used widely. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. It can also be used to indicate someone is irritated or angry. Example: Gosh, she was stumbling out of the pub last night. 10. And I mean heavy rain. There are many different ways to use the word fine: If you hear someone say Its fine, they are saying Its OK. When someone calls someone a Fine thing, it typically means they find them attractive. For instance, She won money down the bingo this week once more. Jammy hoor! Did you do that thing for yer man? is an example. Shite Meaning shit, rubbish or pants. Another gender-specific word that is somewhat offensive is this one. Example: Hey, hows the form? For instance, That car needs to be cleaned up well. Example: Its spitting outside but it might rain harder, so dont forget your umbrella. Example: The man you were with is gombeen. Meaning: (Noun) An eejit is a person who acts stupid or is just a plain idiot. What were you thinking?! Do you want to be in an ogeous handling? Why? Say, Theres your change, for instance. Example: Hey, young wan! Meaning: (Adjective) Unreal is yet another word for good. It is used when you experienced something unbelievably or unexpectedly good. Example: Come meet my mucker. Maybe they are culchie. Bang on is a way to describe a person or a circumstance. The jacks is also. Stop acting the maggot. Can you use your jumper cables to give it a lash? Most frequently, it is used in response to the questions Hows it going and How are you feeling? How are you doing today? Translation: Im not planning on getting absolutely hammered, but one might very well turn into 15. This term, which is pronounced Flue-tered, designates a person who has consumed more alcohol than 9 pints. Like, "I'll see you in 20." Example: Nice one! Bring your wishes there. Meaning: (Noun) A pox is a slang used in Ireland for a person who causes nuisance. This is said often in my area of Dublin as a bit of humour. Go away outta that This is another Irish phrase that has a few meanings, depending on the situation. Meaning: (Noun) The term glunterpeck is another word for a stupid person. Meaning: Youre a disgraceExample of usage and translation: Oh my god, she was an absolute state. For example: 'Will you put the bins out later?' 'Yeah, grand.' It is also the. Youll hear Dubliners saying town was jammers in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers. That must be why you have good penmanship. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Example: Shes giving out in the living room, but I dont understand her. Did you see her taking a piss in front of the Garda station? = Oh my god, she was a disgrace. Irish In origin. Irish people will say, Fair play, when they want to congratulate someone. For instance, Declan has been in there for the past hour looking around., To eat the head off someone is to become extremely enraged with them. Below, we have 125 Irish slang words and Irish slang phrases you should learn. Meaning: (Noun) A hallion is a person who is worthless. Going for a kip means going for a sleep, while saying somewhere is a kip means the place is dirty or bad in some way. Meaning: (Greeting) This Irish greeting is often used when a person comes home from the pub. Example: Wow, you really did get me a concert ticket. It was handled in an ogeous manner. Youve been warned! Gobshite An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person. The words Class and Pure are frequently used together. Ah, another Irish proverb that describes something brilliant with a word that is actually used to describe something dangerous. For instance, Dont worry about it; its great., Up to 90 means completely occupied with something. But dont think for a second that, because the people of this lovely island speak English, it will be easy for you to befriend the locals. One of the most enjoyable posts Ive written in a while was this one. Irish slang words and meanings Eejit - This is probably one of the most commonly used Irish slang terms that I know of. It was definitely Colin, for instance. Example: All she does is show meaningless videos. This one, which is pronounced Ban-jacks-d, is also for someone who has overindulged significantly. Dose Means a case of illness. THE IRISH WAY with words is a complex one. For instance, Mrs. Example: This party is dryshite. When describing something or someone who is in a bad situation, the phrase in bits is used. Ask me arse/bollix/hole 14. Fair play! Its pure shit today. Meaning: (Noun) The term oul fella is an older man. Shut your bake, you clown, for instance. Meaning: (Adjective) Dead on is a phrase used when a person is hot or good-looking. Convert from English to Irish speak. Im truly sad for his parents. Example: I cant believe you turned into a hallion! For instance, That new pub on the corner is deaaaaadly!. Meaning: (Noun) Ciotog is Irish Gaelic for left-handed people. Meaning: (Adjective) The word dote is used to describe a person who is adorable. Example: Please dont tease me, Im banjaxed. Ireland is the second largest island in the world, just next to Great Britain. For instance, Since she got home and saw what the dog did to the couch in the living room, shes been up to 90.. 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. Unfortunately, it was all I could find. Meaning: (Verb) The Irish slang phrase leg it means that the person saying this to you wants you to move quickly or run to avoid being late. Yes, savage is also slang for good in Ireland. It wasnt until after I used it in a sentence and a friend from the UK commented that he didnt understand what I was talking about when we first met. Buncrana: A popular holiday destination. Depending on the county, greetings tend to differ quite a bit. Sure look, what can ye do? is one example. Meaning: (Noun) The word chiseler in the Irish language means a small child or a youngster. Im at a loss for words for this one. Broke: Embarrassed. The smell off those runners, for instance. Howya/Hewya How are you cobbled into a one-word expression. You can also use it to respond to a greeting without giving too much away about how you are doing. Shes right on or Last week, I fixed the bike in Riordains yard. It was spot on and only cost ten pounds. This *might* give you an insight. Meaning: (Phrase) In a heap/hoop is a person who is overly intoxicated. If you fall and break your legs, dont come running to me! It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Bloody Can be used instead of the f-word or its connotations above. C'mere 'til I tell ya 15. Tbf Irish phrases / idioms are better than the slang words, If yer . Example: Do you still want to go to the park? Howanever and anyways 12. 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. When something (or someone) is not functioning properly, it is said to be broken. There are three languages spoken in Ireland: Irish (Gaeilge), Ullans (in Northern Ireland), and English. First, you can use this to ask someone to come near you because he or she wants to say something to you. Meaning: You're a disgrace Example of usage and translation: "Oh my god, she was an absolute state. That yung wan 18. Not sure if it will help. Here are 20 Northern Irish phrases and what they mean in plain English. In this case, we will define soft drinks according to Irish slang. Fair play This Irish phrase is used a lot to tell someone well done for something they have done, completed or achieved. So much so that I always thought that they WERE Scots. Meaning: (Adjective) Gobshite is used to describe an incompetent person. Meaning: (Expression) Sound, in Ireland, is an affirmative response to something a person says. See how hes pulling a beamer. Meaning: (Noun) The messages is an Irish term for shopping or groceries. Its finely stopped pissing down. The day is suitable for drying. 2. Banjaxed This is used to describe something that is broken or not working. He thought I was trying to get his attention, even though I already had it. I havent seen Tony in donkeys years, for instance. A person who is able to shape circumstances to their advantage is referred to as a cute hoor because they are relatively crafty. Many of us in Ireland use slang terms so frequently that we forget they are slang. Catch yourself on . This term is used for an acquaintance and even for your father. To be pissed off/fucked off Means to be annoyed with something/someone/a situation. Meaning: (Noun) A sleeveen is a person whos often rogue. In this case it is a vague answer of itll be ok. Hes a sad little bugger. Thank you so much is what thanks a million means. Oi / / is an interjection used in various varieties of the English language, particularly Australian English, British English, Indian English, Irish English, New Zealand English, and South African English, as well as non-English languages such as Chinese, Tagalog, Tamil, Hindi / Urdu, Japanese, and Portuguese to get the attention of another . For instance, John spills his pint of Guinness and shouts Bollix in annoyance. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! You cant make a silk purse out of a sows ear This is a common phrase youll hear older Irish people sayings which implies you cannot make something good from something that is naturally bad. Wind yer neck in - shut up 17. Example: Let me see the video again. Example: Cmere to me and tell me why your mother is furious again. For more information read our privacy policy. Usually only used informally among friends. About ten years since I last saw you. Shamey Brannagin was once more caught stealing from Kerrigans, for instance. Email: Word: Define: This is a formal gathering. An Irish proverb that expresses approval of behavior is nice one. Such as, Ah, nice one! Its bucketing down outside. or when asking about a specific circumstance, such as Hows that lad doing? He and I havent spoken in ages. A person who is having the craic is having fun, as in Ah, man, Im dying. We returned from the pub at 2:00, but we continued to have fun until 7:00. Give it a lash This is used to tell someone to give it a go, try it, give it a whirl. For instance, How are you doing, hey? Youre coming out later for a few beers, right? How are things going? Translated: A stroll. Add your Slang. Whats the craic? Can you still walk? It originates in rhyming slang of the early-20 th Century, and was derived from "donkey's ears ", which are naturally pretty long. Hold on for a moment, and Ill pass it to you right away! Contextualized as embarrassed. Meaning: (Expression) The Irish expression grand is used as a response to questions like How are you?, How are you doing? and many more. This expression means that he or she is truly and deeply thankful for the help he or she received. Severe illness. Youll hear stall it when someone wants to pause at a shop and pop inside and they need their friends to stop and wait. Example: My son is a chancer, alright. You threw away all the important documents! Locked is just one such term - others include mouldy, ossified, polluted, twisted and langers. In other words, I didnt. Please share your feedback in the box below. Slievene Means a sneaky person. Meaning: (Noun) A young wan is Irish slang word for a young lady, maybe a teenager. Irish mammies say this when children are not paying attention or dont hear them and implies there is enough dirt in their ears, preventing them from listening, to grow potatoes. . For some strange reason, the shopping or the groceries are referred to as the messages in Ireland. The Black Stuff What locals call a pint of Guinness. Meaning: (Greeting) Howsagoin' is an Irish greeting when two people come across each other but dont have time to talk. Even more deadly slang that is unique to Ireland and the Irish. Giving out Means someone is complaining about someone or something. Example: Houl yer whisht! . A nice way to say f*ck is feck. Feck this, Im not listening to him shitting on for any longer, or That fecker was in here mooching about the place again this morning, for instance. . Example: Wow, your boyfriend sure is dead on! Meaning: (Noun) Baked is another name for the mouth or face. Hes a shnakey little shitehawk, that man. Glad you enjoyed the post . Shes always giving out means shes always complaining or moaning. . It also means good.. We actually do not want a casual acquaintance arriving on our doorstep expecting to be put up and shown the town. She has fluted. But in the Irish slang dictionary, deadly means outstanding or cool. These cookies do not store any personal information. Meaning: (Phrase) One of the Irish phrases that are popular anywhere in Ireland is Up to 90, which means a person is extremely busy and cannot be bothered. Example: How could you come to this kind of place? Here are a few slang terms that are employed to describe girls and women. May God strike me down/dead When someone uses this term it can often be in conjunction with if Im lying to indicate that they are telling the truth and being honest with you. Lazy person is the correct translation. Meaning: (Noun) Even though Ireland seems to only have vast fields and beautiful views, they also have cities. Example: How ya doin, hey? 25. Well done, her. , For instance, Oh, Kayla. Im interested in 18th century Irish slang, particularly the word they used to make denigrating remarks about the British. Meaning: (Noun) The word wean is used to identify a small child. For instance, I gave him a kick in the bollox because he was slagging me.. 15 . Meaning: shes an unfortunate looking girl wearing a lot of make-up to try and cover it up. WHY did I have the second bottle of wine, for instance. Example: I heard he turned in to a skanger. You will often hear Irish expats say I havent heard that in donkeys years meaning whatever it is being said to them, they havent heard that in years and years. Hammered is the word Irish people use when they drink too much and get intoxicated. Now you've learned a little Irish slang you can build on your slang vocabulary with these words. Some of my favorites are listed below. Example: I cant stay here a second longer. However, there are a few different ways youll hear it used more frequently: There is absolutely no way that I am doing that. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. There is not one Irish person I dont know that doesnt utter this at least once after the clocks have changed. Scarlet Is an Irish slang word for embarrassed. Scundered/scunnered - different meanings depending on your location 16. Meaning: (Expression) In Irish slang words, the term eat the head off is used when someone is furious with another person. Can also be used to mean a person. It was in this paper bag, but its not inside anymore. Work on your Irish accent, practicing the inflection and sound of consonants and vowels. You are such a clown! all lured - feeling delighted banjaxed - a multipurpose word that can mean broken, tired or drunk be wide - be careful Meaning: A scoldingExample of usage and translation: He spent the whole evening drinking at the pub. I cant be arsed. Lets go to some place exciting. It usually refers to someone who willingly does a favour, asked or not, although usually unexpected - Like when you ask for one rollie and your given two, or the bouncer to an over 21s let's you in when your 20. Therefore, this is a particularly derogatory phrase that is used by women only. Meaning: (Noun) Bollox is Irish slang for testicles. Here we've rounded up 20 common Dublin slang phrases and what they mean. As in, Bout ye, chief! Like a pint? The Jacks An Irish slang word for the toilet. Craic A word with a few meanings. In other words, face. Example: What were you thinking when you joined them? Full of Tips, Reviews, Travel Blogs 7 Coronation Road, Launchese, London, NW10 7PQ, UNITED KINGDOM Contact us: [emailprotected] Read more. Meaning: (Adjective) The Irish slang all lured denotes a feeling of delight towards someone or something. Yes, its just spitting. For instance, Hes a terrible latchio., In other words, how are you? It is often used sarcastically. The weather is wet. Its manky! Give it a lash! Ever. Youre a savage! As in "it is absolutely lashing". These can be a derogatory term or meant lightly. Example: I need to grab the messages. I bet she was in rag order. 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. Meaning: This is not a threat, but a person offering a lift to another person. HEY. Dye see yer wan over there with the red hat? is one example. For instance, Cmon. We should go outside and get some fresh air. Are you going for the cure? Here are some terms youll need to know, whether youre a first-time visitor or just trying to watch an Irish movie without needing subtitles. Many of the words below were unfamiliar to me as well, but Ive included them in a section specifically for slang used in Belfast. There are many different Irish slang terms for drunk or for someone who has consumed excessive amounts of alcohol. drunk and banned. Ah no. Meaning: (Expression) Give me a shot is one of the most common Irish phrases youll hear when youre in Ireland. It can mean you understand. Example: Sure look like its going to rain. Would you mind helping me carry my belongings? Example: Are you done with schoolwork? This Irish slang dictionary will guide you through some of the common Irish slang phrases and words you may encounter during a trip to Ireland and will help you decipher and understand what is being said or referred to when you hear these terms. Example: That boy is thick. I havent seen him in donkeys years means that you havent seen that person for a very long time. For instance, What an eejit, he used cooking oil on the lettuce thinking it was salad dressing.. How will he give you the life youve always dreamed of? Shame the color is so awful. Dilutable = Non-alcoholic concentrated syrup used to make beverages. Example: I need rest today. The island comprises lush fields, but thousands of years ago, it was covered in a thick blanket of ice. Sound A word that can often be used instead of grand or okay. Bollocks/bollix Can be used instead of saying bullshit. 5863 , 65-70: Irish slang and expressions for addressing people Irish Slang Words, 7179: Irish slang for excellent Irish Slang Words, 15 BEST Castles In Ireland 2023 (with Photos), 8087: Irish slang for intoxicated Irish Slang Words, 88-89: Irish slang for a woman or girl Irish Slang Words, Ive never heard of the Irish slang between 90 and 93 Irish Slang Words, Slang from Belfast, 94101 Irish Slang Words. Broke to the bone: Hugely embarrassed. Youre a clown, they say. Shes cutting how? Meaning: (Expression) The expression houl yer whisht is used when a person is trying to tell others to keep quiet. It is mostly heard in Northern Ireland. No need to be embarrassed. Meaning: (Adjective) The word gombeen comes from the old Irish language that is used to describe a person who is dodgy. Meaning: (Expression) The expression donkeys years in the Irish slang dictionary is used when a long time has gone without seeing another person or doing something a person wants. Sure you know yourself A confirmation of knowledge or unspoken acknowledgement about something or a situation.