Young men and women are frequently referred to as youngfellas and youngwans, respectively. Shes a tool. Meaning: (Adjective) Flutered is used to describe a person who is drunk. Quality, I see. Therefore, this is a particularly derogatory phrase that is used by women only. I was pretty mouldy last night. There are three languages spoken in Ireland: Irish (Gaeilge), Ullans (in Northern Ireland), and English. Meaning: (Noun) Gowl is another word for eejit that is used as an insult in Ireland. if a person wants to try something and convinces another person that he or she could do it, he or she uses give me a shot.. Meaning: (Expression) Give me a shot is one of the most common Irish phrases youll hear when youre in Ireland. For instance, All those guys do is sit around and play Xbox. They are two dryshitters. Let me help you with your things. I got tickets to the Aslan concert, for instance. For instance, Shite man, Im late. Meaning: (Expression) Will I, yea? is one of the Irish slang phrases that can confuse tourists. Example: My oul fella wants to join this trip and I said yes. . It also means good.. In reality, it can describe anything. Now you've learned a little Irish slang you can build on your slang vocabulary with these words. Youll be getting off your hole and emptying the bins in 5 minutes, for instance. Slievene Means a sneaky person. Actually, you could also use the word lash in this sentence, as in Give me a lash of that., You could say, Gimme a shot of that kettle there when referring to A shot.. 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. For example, Richard says I got you a pint cause I was at the bar to which Mick responds sound. But don't be too proud when someone calls you by this term. 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. He may have taken us in a taxi to our destination and then hopped out without paying for it, for instance. I will, yeah This has the opposite meaning to what is implied. Another gender-specific word that is somewhat offensive is this one. . I cant stand you!. Example: Finally, its a good day for drying! Lets go to some place exciting. Ill burst ye Can be used to indicate youre going to swing for someone/hit them. Example: Get away from me, melter! Howsagoin?! I would give him a solid kick up the hole if he were my own! However, a quick Google search for 18th-century Irish speech suggested this: Example: Lets not leave today. Meaning: (Adjective) Dead on is a phrase used when a person is hot or good-looking. Courtin = Dating (term commonly used in Northern Ireland). Lousy / scanty / minge-y : Being mean / unkind (Particularly for no reason or towards a worse of individual) Gasping : Thirsty (rather than the actual meaning of being short of breath) Class ; Very good. 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. Meaning: (Adjective) The word gombeen comes from the old Irish language that is used to describe a person who is dodgy. Bags (To make a bags of something) Make a mess of doing something. 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. Whats the craic? But be careful if trying to use it yourself as the person on the receiving end might take offense. Its often called squash or cordial in other countries. 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!) It can mean youre joking me or really or for my Welsh readers, go away outta that = never. 15 Things That Might Amaze You, The Two Fascinating Capitals of Ireland Dublin and Belfast, What is a Banshee? 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. Example: I was locked last night and cant remember how I got home. You'll often hear "he's an awful eejit" meaning he's a bit dumb. Shite Meaning shit, rubbish or pants. Your man who I purchased the car from is a serious Gombeen, I said. That is fatal. . Dont get confused with it being a person, for locals are always using this term. 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. Example: Clean the toilet now. I might come here more. Tame. Meaning: (Expression) A bad dose is one of the most used Irish expressions when someone is having a bad day. Boke: Vomit. Martinas youngwan was in working with us for a few days last week, for instance. Did you see what she posted on Facebook? is an illustration. Meaning: She is very annoyingExplanation: An insult that translates literally as a bag of vaginas.. Meaning: shes an unfortunate looking girl wearing a lot of make-up to try and cover it up. Your email address will not be published. Fair play! For a personge to be alright, good, and fair dinkim. Give it a lash has many different applications. So, if you are excited to learn about Irish slang words, lets start now! Meaning: Oh my God!Explanation: In Ireland, its okay to use the Lords name in vain to express your frustration. Irish slang is a rich verbal tradition rooted in the hard and hearty struggles of the Irish people, who are predominantly Celtic in ethnicity. Leave a door open unnecessarily in an Irish house and youll hear this expression coming your way. Revealing the Origins of this Scary Irish Creature, What is Ireland Famous For? Feck/Friggin/Flippin All stem from fuck and are a lesser harsh version. Example: That boy is thick. It is often used sarcastically. There, its like a midden. We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners. Meaning: He is very chatty / He can talk at lengthExample of usage and translation: God yer one would talk the hind legs off a donkey = That girl would bore you to death with her incessant talk, Meaning: To kiss someone passionatelyExample of usage and translation: My mouth is red raw, he was scoring the face off me for hours at Coppers = I have sandpapered my skin off my passionately kissing someone for hours in the local meat market. Topic: +100 Irish Slang Words To Sound Like A Local. Good God, it just occurred to me how many Irish proverbs there are for foul weather! Give me a shot. This is a term that is frequently used in a crude manner, but it is also used in normal conversation. Example: You were flutered last night, werent ya? Say, Theres your change, for instance. Acting the maggot Bad dose Bags (to make a bags of something) Bang on Banjaxed Black stuff Boyo Brutal Bucketing down Bunk off Chancer Chiseler Ciotg Cod/codding ya Craic Crack on Culchie Cute hoor Delira and excira Deadly Donkey's years Dosser Eat the head off Eejit Earwigging Effin' and blindin' 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. The hostel were staying in is a kip and a half, for instance! They have a filthy kitchen, for instance. All of these Irish slang words can be used to describe someone who is drunk. One of the most enjoyable posts Ive written in a while was this one. Lets talk soon when were not busy. In Ireland, we discuss the weather a lot. Its pissing down today. Meaning: You're a disgrace Example of usage and translation: "Oh my god, she was an absolute state. Meaning: (Noun) A hallion is a person who is worthless. But in the Irish slang dictionary, deadly means outstanding or cool. Meaning: (Adjective) When an Irish person says fine, he or she is referring to a beautiful person, thing, or place. It was handled in an ogeous manner. This is quite a common Irish expression in Dublin. He still has his communion money Another expression used to describe a person who is tight with their money. A significant number of Irish slang words that I had never heard of were discovered by the Instagram post. Meaning: (Noun) The term glunterpeck is another word for a stupid person. Come here to me Youll hear this, usually, at the start of a conversation or sentence when someone wants to get your attention or has something important to me. likely to wake up the next day with a bad hangover. Meaning: He is an idiotExplanation: The proper way to pronounce idiot in Ireland.Note: In Nothern Ireland, youll hear the insult Buck eejit, which means just about the same thing. Sure you know yourself A confirmation of knowledge or unspoken acknowledgement about something or a situation. Gobshite An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person. I thought they were sold out, Savage, man. Meaning: (Noun) The messages is an Irish term for shopping or groceries. For instance, Got food at that Indian restaurant. Meaning: (Expression) Fair play is an Irish expression that means good job or well done. This expression is mostly used after winning a game or congratulating someones success. Example: Dont forget your raincoat and boots. Meaning: (Expression) The term Its spitting is used when there is light rain. Ive missed you so! Im in a hurry, so lets talk soon! Any type of alcohol-free beverage is called minerals in Ireland. Impress your friends with your new accent. During my time in school, I used, and you can hear this one used. How many years has it been since we saw each other? Dilutable = Non-alcoholic concentrated syrup used to make beverages. Example: Shes a cute hoor for always getting what she wants. 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. Every day, I use slang. Translated: A stroll. For instance, How are you doing, hey? Youre coming out later for a few beers, right? Gobshite - An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person. Meaning: Stop moaning / complainingNote: To gurn is to complain about a person. I was raging I missed it means Im so disappointed I missed it. Meaning: (Phrase) The phrase gone from means that a person is away or has left. Such as, Ross, ya pox! In other words, face. 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. For example, if my son spills milk because he is not being careful pouring it, youll often hear me say Jesus, Mary and Joseph, can you watch what youre doing!. Unfortunately, it was all I could find. Meaning: (Noun) A skanger is a person who is often involved in minor acts of crimes and is often in danger or hiding from authorities. Will you wait for me in this spot? Example: Youve been in your room faffing all day but failed to clean it! Im famished! The 20 Happiest Countries in the World, 2022, This Guide To Irish Slang and Insults Will Have You Downing Guinness With the Locals in a Flash, The Ultimate Guide To the Many Accents in Ireland, 12 Common Hand Gestures in the US That Will Insult People in Other Countries, 29 Phrases To Get You Started Learning Pidgin English, Does Duolingo Actually Work? Thats why he dropped out of school. Yes, savage is also slang for good in Ireland. For instance, Your man was caught last week robbing the Superquinn till., means I most certainly wont be doing that. Whats up with that? If you hear an Irish person say this in response to someone asking them to do something, it actually means there is not a hope in hell they will do it! My brother-in-law uses this term all the time. For example, I managed to book tickets for that concert you were telling me about Paddy, to which Paddy replies deadly. It is pelting down. One more gentle one. Example: Houl yer whisht! You can post any Irish slang youre unsure of in the comments section below, and Ill get back to you. For instance, Here. Join the I Left My Heart in Ireland in Our Community on Facebook. It was definitely Colin, for instance. He does appear to be possessed, flying around the garden. Meaning: (Noun) Baked is another name for the mouth or face. I havent seen Tony in donkeys years, for instance. Both deadly and class are not always used to describe a lesson. Grand This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. I need a barrel of Soudafed, for instance. Burgers for free. So, strangely enough, the most frequent email weve received since we first published this guide in early 2019 is from people looking for words and Irish slang for girl. Say, Ah, stop, thats gas! , Emmas dog is gas, etc. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The smell off those runners, for instance. 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. 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. In other words, I didnt. It can also sometimes be used instead of thanks. Meaning: (Noun) In Irish sayings, the word craic means the news, gossip, joke, or scoop spread by the word of mouth. 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. Well done, her. Sure, itll be grand means it will be ok. Or if someone responds to the questions how are you with grand, it means theyre ok/fine. Meaning: (Expression) Its rotten is another way of saying its raining in Ireland. Your email address will not be published. Hence, a precarious situation. As above, usually instead of saying something like hi buddy, any news. Example: 'He's not feeling the best today, he was locked last night.'. 16. Example: You almost lost your passport? Youll hear Dubliners saying town was jammers in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers. Example: Theres a long line at the jacks. Meaning: (Phrase) In bits is when a person is describing something bad that happened to him or her. 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Meaning: (Adjective) To many of us, deadly means something dangerous that could lead to death when done. Up to 90 If you hear someone say she was up to 90 it usually means the person was busy or run ragged doing things. Barns in Ireland often do not have doors, which is why youll hear this being asked of those who forget to close the door behind them. She might get upset even if its only a joke. This way, you wont have a hard time understanding locals that often use Irish expressions. Meaning: (Expression) Cmere to me is an expression that has a few meanings. When someone is Acting the maggot, they are dossing or messing around, which means they are not carrying out their intended task. Bang on. Additionally, it occasionally tends to lead to some confusion. Meaning: (Adjective) The Irish slang all lured denotes a feeling of delight towards someone or something. Example: Tell the kids to come in now because its rotten. I thought you passed out! Did you see her going to the toilet in front of the police station?" Key Irish Slang Words when Visiting Ireland 1. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite Irish proverbs. Meaning: Shes overly excitedExample of usage and translation: Shes seen Jamie Dornan walking around Belfast and now she up to high doh.. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyone's breath away. Gas If an Irish person says Thats gas, they are not referring to an actual gas, they mean something is funny! 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. Youll often hear hes an awful eejit meaning hes a bit dumb. Example: Wow, your boyfriend sure is dead on! Yoke A word used instead of saying thing. Im tired already! For instance, She wants to be f****d out of the club. She is arranged in rags. I don't know, but it sounds like some Irish slang I've heard my entire life. Example: Wow, you are a ciotog. Stop acting the maggot. Im having the craic this instant. Good luck A different way of saying goodbye to someone. Rainey weather type. For instance, Ah, for gods sake. It is disgusting outside. For instance, Mrs. Hes a sad little bugger. After that, we all returned to Sharons. . Donkeys years Used to refer to a very long time. However, I may be getting older and going out less as a result. Here are a few (Ill update this again later as new comments are submitted). It can mean you understand. Meaning: (Verb) The term dander is used in everyday conversation and means to walk.. Im at a loss for words for this one. Another way to describe someone who is very intoxicated is with this phrase. The radio is not audible to me. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Youll often hear Irish mammies say ah feck instead of the f-word around kids. Meaning: (Expression) The expression its lashing is used when theres heavy rain and strong winds. Not to be confused with the following. Meaning: (Noun) A geebag is a woman who is not pleasant. It even includes a guide to reading between the lines of what the Irish are really saying when they address you read it carefully! Mocking is catching If you are mocking or teasing someone about something, be careful karma doesnt come to bite you in the backside! 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. Note: A lie. Meaning: (Adjective) Gobshite is used to describe an incompetent person. My stomach hurts so badly. I loved this article, thank you! Read on to find out several ways to say hello to Irish people as well as some other interesting sayings and funny phrases. Perhaps unsurprisingly given the drunken Irish stereotype, there are several different words in Irish slang that all mean drunk. 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You can also use it to respond to a greeting without giving too much away about how you are doing. , It is referred to as a yoke to describe the object. Youre a clown, they say. With my guide to certain Irish lingo, you will understand what the phrases mean and fit right in! Meaning: (Expression) The phrase Its pure shit means that its a rainy day. A lot of the time, when Im speaking to someone who isnt Irish, I forget that the words Im using are actually slang. That young lad was acting the maggot in here last night.. Meaning: (Expression) Minus craic is an Irish expression that means a person, thing, or situation is boring. For instance, That new pub on the corner is deaaaaadly!. Last night, after Foleys, I was in a hoop. The Craic was 90 There's more than just one craic in Irish slang. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. 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. To be sound is a state of existence. Example: Its so sad to see a shitehawk, but I have no money to spare. Meaning: A person from the country, or basically anyone that comes from anywhere other than Dublin. Theres a grand aul stretch in the evenings This is often uttered in springtime, particularly when the clocks have moved forward in March and evenings are staying brighter for longer. You appear healthy. For instance, That lads just a goon,. Work on your Irish accent, practicing the inflection and sound of consonants and vowels. Culchie/Langer These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives down the country and isnt a Dub. The island comprises lush fields, but thousands of years ago, it was covered in a thick blanket of ice. To be pissed off/fucked off Means to be annoyed with something/someone/a situation. Here are a few Irish expressions that I frequently use. So, to have a bad dose means to have a bad case of the flu or a cold. Another one for describing someone who is stupid is this. Hewya, me auld segotias An old Irish way of saying hi my friend. Meaning: (Greeting) The term hows the form? is a greeting when you unexpectedly see a friend you havent spoken to in a while. Leg it to the shops, or leg it to meet one of the lads around the corner. At my previous job, I shared a building with about 250 individuals representing 34 nations. Example: Hey, there, young fella. 20. Example: Quit slagging her. Irish slang words and phrases are ubiquitous, even in polite conversation, so youll need to master them to make heads or tails of whats being said at the pub. Meaning: (Adjective) Kip is another slang term in Ireland used in everyday speech that means dirty. Example: All she does is show meaningless videos. The slang was taken from the original word and is now one of the common Irish sayings today. For instance, Cmon. We should go outside and get some fresh air. I am not familiar with any books. . If in doubt, dont! Example: I have never seen these people in the city. The following section delves into Irish idioms and slang terms that Ive used in the past but that were completely lost on listeners. A manky day out refers to a day that is grey, miserable and probably raining too. Whats the craic? And I can tell you its not only my family that does this. You may hear people saying hes an awful dryshite. If youre unfamiliar with the terms, Bollox or Bollocks refer to a mans testicles in slang. Meaning: (Expression) The expression Nice one is used when a person agrees or approves of another persons actions. Cop on to yourself Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. Will I, yea? Buncrana: A popular holiday destination. . Manky Used to describe something that is dirty, horrible, ugly or disgusting. Were you born in a barn? You can also use it to avoid making decisions, using it instead of its up to you. Im going on the lash at the weekend means I am going out drinking this weekend. . It can often be heard from irritated parents telling off their offspring. This is yet another kissing-related Irish expression. It is a book containing the gallows speeches from over 100 offenders. Someone who works for the police. Im truly sad for his parents. About ten years since I last saw you. Meaning: (Noun) Yoke is Irish slang that is used to call something with a name you cant remember, even when you think hard enough. The TV is banjaxed simply means its not working. Ah, fatal. Someone who causes trouble. Example: I need rest today. Add your Slang. 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Jesus, Mary and Joseph This is one of those Irish things to say that every Irish mammy will utter, over and over again. Invoke a taxi. 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. Irish In origin. Meaning: (Expression) Thanks a million is how an Irish person thanks another person for doing him or her a solid. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! Example: Hey, girl! Meaning: (Greeting) The greeting How ya getting on? is used when two people have not seen or talked to each other in a while. For instance, Please let me know he canceled training. The outside is rotten. Meaning: (Expression) The expression good woman is an exclamation used when a person is surprised or in disbelief. . Meaning: (Noun) In Irish words, The jacks means toilet. I legged it for the bus means I ran for the bus. Cant stop, Im sorry. Note: A show of optimism that relies on nothing but hope. Meaning: (Phrase) Having the craic means a person is ready to listen to the latest news of gossip. Example: Were you shifting with her the other night? That was shite can means that was rubbish. I clipped the wing mirror off the pillar yesterday, as an illustration. In this case, we will define soft drinks according to Irish slang. Convert from English to Irish speak. He is an absolute melter. Example: Hes gone from the house early this morning. Example: Im glad to see you suckin diesel. Example: You better teach the chiseler not to mess with my things. Example: Where do you get this bizarre craic? Example: Hey, hows the form? Like, "I'll see you in 20." Im sure you two will get along. If she thinks five is not enough, shell repeat it. Say, That chicken fillet roll was class, for instance. Meaning: (Adjective) When an Irish says youre jammy, he or she means you are lucky. Giving out literally translates as to whine. Theres also the possibility of using this Irish proverb to describe someone who is bull-thick (aka angry). Grand (an iconic bit of Irish slang) Grand means OK. You'll hear it most commonly used as a response to, 'How's it going'/'How are you feeling?'/'How are you today?'. Meaning: (Noun) A sleeveen is a person whos often rogue. Example: hey, dawn! Usually when a child has a near-miss at hurting themselves, youll hear grandparents saying he put the heart across me.