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. That was shite can means that was rubbish. Hence, a precarious situation. Did you see her going to the toilet in front of the police station?" Example: Nice one! Example: Where did you get these eggs, you glunterpeck? This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Example: he yer wan last night gave me her number but I dont remember her name. I'm steamin' - you might hear this at the pub 18. Key Irish Slang Words when Visiting Ireland 1. Everyday Irish Slang Words and Phrases The exact meaning and usage of these words and phrases from Ireland may vary from one area to another, so be sure and pay close attention to the context in which they're being used. Gas is used when someone or something is funny. Both deadly and class are not always used to describe a lesson. It refers to a bad situation or a bad person. There are three languages spoken in Ireland: Irish (Gaeilge), Ullans (in Northern Ireland), and English. Meaning: (Adjective) In Ireland, if one person calls you thick, he or she thinks you are stupid. However, I may be getting older and going out less as a result. 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. Translation: I will never get around to it. I was pretty mouldy last night. Example: Dont be such a pox. I cant understand the news! It can also mean they are taking advantage of you. The slang was taken from the original word and is now one of the common Irish sayings today. 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!. Its lashing/bucketing outside Means it is pouring with rain outside. 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? Example: Yer man here needs a bottle of beer. Its pissing down today. Example: Where do you get this bizarre craic? Example: Let me see the video again. Same as whats the story. 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. The Jacks An Irish slang word for the toilet. To be pissed off/fucked off Means to be annoyed with something/someone/a situation. Therefore, Ireland has been one of the most recommended destinations for people who love to travel and explore the world. 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. Meaning: (Noun) The messages is an Irish term for shopping or groceries. This term, which is pronounced Flue-tered, designates a person who has consumed more alcohol than 9 pints. Ah no. Meaning: She is very annoyingExplanation: An insult that translates literally as a bag of vaginas.. 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. Example: If we want to arrive on time, we need to leg it. My advice is not to use them unless you are certain of their meaning and the situation is appropriate. Meaning: Oh my God!Explanation: In Ireland, its okay to use the Lords name in vain to express your frustration. If someone says the craic was 90 it means the fun, laughter and joviality was amazing. Im very proud of him. It is often used vulgarly, but can also be used in day-to-day conversations. Meaning: (Noun) Fella is Irish slang for a boy or a man at any age. Meaning: (Noun) An eejit is a person who acts stupid or is just a plain idiot. Meaning: (Adjective) Kip is another slang term in Ireland used in everyday speech that means dirty. 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! Howanever and anyways 12. Dont go anywhere alone with him. Hes going home to a tongin from the wife. Im in a hurry, so lets talk soon! The cure denotes a pint of beer/Guinness to cure the hangover. For a personge to be alright, good, and fair dinkim. She regularly returns to Ireland to explore more of the wonderful island with her family. likely to wake up the next day with a bad hangover. Its manky! Unfortunately, it was all I could find. Meaning: (Expression) Bucketing down is one of the most used Irish slang phrases when there is a heavy downpour of rain. People can also say Im roasting meaning Im really hot. Im truly sad for his parents. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hes a slievene means hes a sneaky so-and-so. To slag someone is to mock them. All of these Irish slang words can be used to describe someone who is drunk. Example: Thats so funny. Jammy essentially means good fortune. Meaning: (Verb) The old Irish slang beamer means that a person is going red all over the face because of embarrassment. Another gender-specific word that is somewhat offensive is this one. Fear no more. Example: You gowl! Meaning: (Adjective) The word dote is used to describe a person who is adorable. Whats the craic can also be used to say hello to someone meaning hi, any gossip/how is it going. Someone who causes trouble. Why? But be careful if trying to use it yourself as the person on the receiving end might take offense. . Shes always giving out means shes always complaining or moaning. I havent seen Tony in donkeys years, for instance. Youre jammy to find it again. As in "it is absolutely lashing". Learning the most commonly used Irish slang words and phrases can significantly improve your chances of blending in with the community in an instant. Cop on to yourself Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. Since there are so many different ways to use the word craic, Im giving it its own section. I got tickets to the Aslan concert, for instance. Whats the craic? Catch yourself on . 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. This Irish proverb is frequently used in a crude manner to describe someone who is feeling queasy, as in Ive had a bad dose of the shits all day.. For instance, That new full-back theyve brought on is pure class.. Did you see her taking a piss in front of the Garda station? = Oh my god, she was a disgrace. But in Irish slang, savage means outstanding or amazing. So, if you are excited to learn about Irish slang words, lets start now! You appear healthy. Meaning: (Adjective) Gobshite is used to describe an incompetent person. . Example: My son is a chancer, alright. You can post any Irish slang youre unsure of in the comments section below, and Ill get back to you. Good God, it just occurred to me how many Irish proverbs there are for foul weather! Example: I cant explain it but Im in bits after the meeting. If you hear this you should expect sunshine and warm weather, possibly a light breeze. A lot of the time, when Im speaking to someone who isnt Irish, I forget that the words Im using are actually slang. Meaning: (Expression) Cmere to me is an expression that has a few meanings. Example: What is this mess? Meaning: (Verb) The term dander is used in everyday conversation and means to walk.. Bags (To make a bags of something) Make a mess of doing something. It was definitely Colin, for instance. Dryshite A term used to describe someone who is boring, really boring. Youll often hear Irish mammies say ah feck instead of the f-word around kids. Check out our 25 Irish phrases and slang words below so you can practice them the next time you are at the pub. Wow, what a dope. To learn more about affiliate links, read my Disclosure Policy here. Ribena is a blackcurrant dilutable very popular in Ireland. Raging An Irish expression means someone is angry or disappointed with themselves. Meaning: (Adjective) The word gombeen comes from the old Irish language that is used to describe a person who is dodgy. Meaning: (Noun) A goon is Irish slang for a man whos so drunk he becomes too loud and too much to handle. Shut your bake, you clown, for instance. Meaning: (Expression) The expression the craic was 90 means that a person is having an exceptionally good time. For instance, I observed you conversing with him for about four hours. Did you throw up? Ill speak with you later, okay? THE IRISH WAY with words is a complex one. Sound person. On me tod People use this Irish slang phrase to let others know they were alone when doing something or going somewhere. No need to be embarrassed. Dont worry; slagging is light-heartedly mocking someone and is often witnessed amongst friends. I still cant believe we won that game, for instance. This expression means he or she wont be doing something. And I can tell you its not only my family that does this. Meaning: (Adjective) Dead on is a phrase used when a person is hot or good-looking. Thank you so much is what thanks a million means. . Fair play! Shed talk the hind legs off a donkey This girl/woman is a right chatterbox, never stops talking. Example: Theres a long line at the jacks. Acting the maggot - messing around Someone acting the maggot is messing around, playing around, or being silly. Beautiful cliffs overlooking the ocean will definitely take anyones breath away. I cant stand you!. For instance, I called over yesterday and he talked for an hour about his new tractor. It wasnt very fun. 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. It might still be long, just a slightly shorter version of the whole story. . 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. Maybe they are culchie. 19. Any type of alcohol-free beverage is called minerals in Ireland. When people greet one another, a lot of crazy Irish slang words are frequently used. Im at a loss for words for this one. Depending on the county, greetings tend to differ quite a bit. Example: You were with him all night and all you did was lob the gob? This Irish expression is used to request that someone wait for you or to pause what you are saying. Meaning: (Noun) A geebag is a woman who is not pleasant. 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. Example: This ice cream is just class. You can also use it to avoid making decisions, using it instead of its up to you. For more information read our privacy policy. Bring your wishes there. During my time in school, I used, and you can hear this one used. Example: My oul fella wants to join this trip and I said yes. These cookies do not store any personal information. Culchie/Langer These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives down the country and isnt a Dub. . 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. For instance, Thanks a million makes no sense to non-Irish people (at least, thats what my non-Irish friends tell me!). Example: Im not in the mood to go out. For instance, That new pub on the corner is deaaaaadly!. The words Class and Pure are frequently used together. Janie (mac) An expression to denote shock or exasperation. For instance, Your man was caught last week robbing the Superquinn till., means I most certainly wont be doing that. Whats up with that? Note: A lie. Let me help you with your things. Sound A word that can often be used instead of grand or okay. one who is uninteresting. Lets talk soon when were not busy. It can mean you understand. Example: Youve been in your room faffing all day but failed to clean it! Lets go somewhere else. 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. Are you going for the cure? Posted at 16:45h in lucia marisol williams by colin mclean where is he now. For instance, Last night, the pub was jam-packed with culchies.. Im going to call in sick, for instance. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Donkeys years Used to refer to a very long time. The weather is fine. Youll hear Dubliners saying town was jammers in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Meaning: (Expression) The expression Nice one is used when a person agrees or approves of another persons actions. Buncrana: A popular holiday destination. 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. Example: Lets go. However, a quick Google search for 18th-century Irish speech suggested this: Thank you. Meaning: (Phrase) The phrase In rag order or in ribbons is not that common nowadays, but some locals still used to describe a person who is very drunk. Sure, yer one was caught shifting yer man last week, for instance. That new car Jerry picked up is cracking, for instance. You could eat in Jacks and feel safer. Yer man over there (with pointing or nodding of the head) This indicates that man over there. For instance, use your umbrella to Gway out of that. However, there are a few different ways youll hear it used more frequently: There is absolutely no way that I am doing that. Nice person. He wouldnt spend Christmas This slang Irish phrase is used to describe someone who is mean with their money. 15 Things That Might Amaze You, The Two Fascinating Capitals of Ireland Dublin and Belfast, What is a Banshee? Bang on is another example of Irish slang for good and is typically used as a response. Your email address will not be published. He's a right bowsie 9. 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. We all know that our conversational tone has been hit with the Hiberno-English brush where the construction of sentences comes more from the Gaeilge. 2. Hammered is the word Irish people use when they drink too much and get intoxicated. A place where members can be honest with each other, share their stories and travel photos, and try out a new way to see Ireland together. My stomach thinks my throats been cut An Irish slang phrase to indicate you are hungry. Ive never heard some of these terms before! Brit: A member of the British armed forces. Were you born in a barn? Dilutable = Non-alcoholic concentrated syrup used to make beverages. I dont know, but it sounds like some Irish slang Ive heard my entire life. Grand This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. Convert from English to Irish speak. Read on to find out several ways to say hello to Irish people as well as some other interesting sayings and funny phrases. What a complete jerk. Example: How ya doin, hey? But he was raging with her means he was so angry with her. Example: Continue with that behavior and Ill tell everyone youre a bollox! That is fatal. In reality, it can describe anything. Example: I heard he turned in to a skanger. You dropped your wallet. Youre out of your tree! Full of Tips, Reviews, Travel Blogs 7 Coronation Road, Launchese, London, NW10 7PQ, UNITED KINGDOM Contact us: [emailprotected] Read more. For instance, Please let me know he canceled training. The outside is rotten. During a trip to Northern Ireland, where we visited way too many pubs, I frequently heard the word cracking used. Meaning: You're a disgrace Example of usage and translation: "Oh my god, she was an absolute state. There, its like a midden. You could say, Here, pass me that yoke there on the counter, or you could call someone annoying, That yoke over there.. Sound Out - 1. Meaning: (Noun) Ciotog is Irish Gaelic for left-handed people. Many of the words below were unfamiliar to me as well, but Ive included them in a section specifically for slang used in Belfast. Meaning: (Noun) Yoke is Irish slang that is used to call something with a name you cant remember, even when you think hard enough. Example: Stall the ball! 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. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Martinas youngwan was in working with us for a few days last week, for instance. Example: I cant believe youre graduating with the highest remarks. We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners. 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. Meaning: (Noun) Even though Ireland seems to only have vast fields and beautiful views, they also have cities. Meaning: (Expression) The expression good woman is an exclamation used when a person is surprised or in disbelief. Give it a lash! Meaning: What culchies call people from Dublin. Please share your feedback in the box below. My stomach hurts so badly. Meaning: (Adjective) The Irish slang all lured denotes a feeling of delight towards someone or something. can also be used as a salutation, as in Ah, Tony. Hows the fun? Please enter your username or email address to reset your password. Can you use your jumper cables to give it a lash? 16. First, check out this brief guide to 10 of the more common words that may trip up the unsuspecting traveller. The smell off those runners, for instance. Example: What were you thinking when you joined them? Meaning: (Phrase) Having the craic means a person is ready to listen to the latest news of gossip. My brother-in-law uses this term all the time. I thought they were sold out, Savage, man. When you arrive in Ireland, particularly for the first time, you may be forgiven for thinking youve landed on an alien planet. When someone says Sure look in response to your question while you are conversing, they usually mean it is what it is. Nevertheless, it might also mean that the person youre speaking to is either uninterested in what youre saying or is unsure of how to react. Leg it to the shops, or leg it to meet one of the lads around the corner. Meaning: (Noun) A young wan is Irish slang word for a young lady, maybe a teenager. Say, Theres your change, for instance. Meaning: (Expression) In Irish slang words, the term eat the head off is used when someone is furious with another person. Meaning: (Noun) Latchio is a form of derogatory word used for a male person with a low social status. 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 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. Meaning: (Adjective) Dryshite is used in Ireland to describe a person, thing, or situation that is boring. Meaning: (Adjective) The word savage originally means a person who is wild or untamable that has no manners or decency. Howya/Hewya How are you cobbled into a one-word expression. Ah, another Irish proverb that describes something brilliant with a word that is actually used to describe something dangerous. For instance, He had three bottles of Coke and a bag of Skittles an hour ago; hes been on high doh ever since.. 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' Meaning: (Expression) The expression bout ye means how are you doing? in Irish slang. Meaning: (Expression) Thanks a million is how an Irish person thanks another person for doing him or her a solid. Example: Come meet my mucker. Ask me arse/bollix/hole 14. The jacks is also. Wait till I tell you This term is used at the start of a conversation that will entail gossip and scandal. You could grow potatoes in those ears This is used to tell someone they are not paying attention/hearing you and is used instead of saying clean out your ears. Ah, man, the heads are bouncing off of me, as an example. 20. Tbf Irish phrases / idioms are better than the slang words, If yer . Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Another one for extremely inebriated people. For instance, Hes banjxxed, sure hes been on the pints all day.. Example: Im glad to see you suckin diesel. Or a little shady. Email: Word: Define: Your Michael is a little hallion, for instance. Meaning: (Greeting) The term hows the form? is a greeting when you unexpectedly see a friend you havent spoken to in a while. When someone is Acting the maggot, they are dossing or messing around, which means they are not carrying out their intended task. Meaning: (Phrase) In a heap/hoop is a person who is overly intoxicated. Irish In origin. Example: Finally, its a good day for drying! Leppin Another word for starving or hungry. Im tired already! If you love the series Father Ted, then youll hear this expression often used throughout the series. The car wont start, for instance. He may have taken us in a taxi to our destination and then hopped out without paying for it, for instance. Meaning: This is not a threat, but a person offering a lift to another person. For instance, How are you doing, hey? Youre coming out later for a few beers, right? This article is the combined work of four writers: Sorcha OHiggins, Tara Povey, Sarah Arnold, and Niall Colbert. 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. 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. Example: Wow, you really did get me a concert ticket. . 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.