drunk and banned. For example, Richard says I got you a pint cause I was at the bar to which Mick responds sound. 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. Example: Theres a long line at the jacks. Burgers for free. Whats the craic? Example: I have never seen these people in the city. Youve been warned! Example: Dont forget your raincoat and boots. Meaning: (Verb) giving out is Irish slang for complaining or ranting about something unpleasant. Meaning: (Verb) When visiting Ireland, youll often hear the word manky which is used to describe something dirty. He still has his communion money Another expression used to describe a person who is tight with their money. Example: Its so sad to see a shitehawk, but I have no money to spare. Scarlet for ya 11. Most frequently, it is used in response to the questions Hows it going and How are you feeling? How are you doing today? 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. HEY. Will you wait for me in this spot? Taking the piss People say someone was taking the piss when they mean they were either being silly/stupid or they are teasing you. Example: This food is quality! Example: The man you were with is gombeen. 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. That must be why you have good penmanship. Example: Youre acting like a goon! This word is often associated with the expression go and bollox and is deemed offensive. Dont get confused with it being a person, for locals are always using this term. 2. Yer man over there (with pointing or nodding of the head) This indicates that man over there. If a teenager says theyve a free gaff it usually means their parents are away/out and a party may ensue. Meaning: (Expression) The expression Did I fuck is used when a person sarcastically means he or she did not do the thing the other person was asking. Meaning: (Noun) The slang yer wan in Ireland is usually used to call a female person youve forgotten. Wow, what a dope. 50+ Best Irish Slang Words And Phrases To Try Out Thinking of going on a trip to Ireland and fit in with the locals? This article is the combined work of four writers: Sorcha OHiggins, Tara Povey, Sarah Arnold, and Niall Colbert. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For instance, He had three bottles of Coke and a bag of Skittles an hour ago; hes been on high doh ever since.. His sister told his Mam about what happened, for instance. . Meaning: (Expression) Its pissing down is a term used in Ireland when its a rainy day. Can also mean someone is a fool. Example: Where did you get these eggs, you glunterpeck? Example: Hes a bog. We actually do not want a casual acquaintance arriving on our doorstep expecting to be put up and shown the town. Example: Please dont tease me, Im banjaxed. Meaning: (Adjective) The Irish slang all lured denotes a feeling of delight towards someone or something. There is no way I would wait there for a bus. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. +100 Irish Slang Words To Sound Like A Local - Travel Pixy I bet she was in rag order. The car wont start again because the engine is banjaxed, or No, the things banjaxed sure., In an Irish bar anywhere in the world, if you hear someone say theyre Going to the jacks or ask you, Where are the jacks, they are referring to the restroom. Its gas! 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. Do you mean to say Susans here? Howya/Hewya How are you cobbled into a one-word expression. Ive missed you so! Its bucketing down outside. For instance, She ultimately passed her exams. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The Black Stuff What locals call a pint of Guinness. Meaning: (Expression) The expression houl yer whisht is used when a person is trying to tell others to keep quiet. A full glossary of Irish slang terms has just been released It's worth noting that when someone says that they're 'grand', they may not necessarily be so. Example: Dont be skeptical. I got tickets to the Aslan concert, for instance. About ten years since I last saw you. This *might* give you an insight. Example: Get away from that sleeveen! My stomach hurts so badly. 10. Example: Shes giving out in the living room, but I dont understand her. For instance, Please let me know he canceled training. The outside is rotten. Youre better off without him, anyway. I need a barrel of Soudafed, for instance. People often answer with this expression when someone tells them something great. I would give him a solid kick up the hole if he were my own! Meaning: (Adjective) Class is another term for good in Ireland. You dropped your wallet. Another relatively calm one. Meaning: (Noun) The word mucker is used as another name for a friend. Boke: Vomit. Meaning: (Greeting) The greeting How ya getting on? is used when two people have not seen or talked to each other in a while. Even more deadly slang that is unique to Ireland and the Irish. The slang is much similar to the Irish word ciotach, meaning clumsy. Meaning: (Expression) The expression bout ye means how are you doing? in Irish slang. You are such a gobshite! Example: Story horse! You appear healthy. Sure look, what can ye do? is one example. Example: Im not in the mood to go out. I cant stand you!. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. I only have it for a week and its gone to shit. Would you mind helping me carry my belongings? Example: I was locked last night and cant remember how I got home. For instance, I gave him a kick in the bollox because he was slagging me.. Funny phrases Irish use that Americans don't I loved this article, thank you! Im going on the lash at the weekend means I am going out drinking this weekend. It can also be used in annoyance. Im truly sad for his parents. Just substitute drunk in hes drunk or I was drunk with one of the following words: These Irish words and phrases include swear words or insults. For instance, Oh man, my heads are in shambles. Such as, Story horse?! Meaning: (Verb) The old Irish slang beamer means that a person is going red all over the face because of embarrassment. 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. So, whats the craic? It might still be long, just a slightly shorter version of the whole story. To learn more about affiliate links, read my Disclosure Policy here. The island comprises lush fields, but thousands of years ago, it was covered in a thick blanket of ice. Deadly Indicates that something is cool or awesome. Young men and women are frequently referred to as youngfellas and youngwans, respectively. Irish Slang Archives - Lets Learn Slang Oh, I do. For instance, Oh well! Or something they themselves wouldnt attempt. Broke: Embarrassed. The cure denotes a pint of beer/Guinness to cure the hangover. Fair play This Irish phrase is used a lot to tell someone well done for something they have done, completed or achieved. We only had a few shots of whiskey. Shes got notions In this sense, the word notions can be used as a dismissive put down or to indicate someone has ideas above their station. Give me a try is an additional option. Its a grand, soft day Means its a rainy day, but more so fine, misty rain than pouring rain. He is a smooth-talker and gets what he wants, even in the wrong way. Meaning: (Adjective) When an Irish says youre jammy, he or she means you are lucky. This term is used as a derogatory word. Culchie/Langer These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives down the country and isnt a Dub. . Meaning: (Adjective) To many of us, deadly means something dangerous that could lead to death when done. It was completely lacking in fun. For instance, That car needs to be cleaned up well. Leg it to the shops, or leg it to meet one of the lads around the corner. The term used to describe filthy or dung-filled people. Shes a terrible wagon. Youll be getting off your hole and emptying the bins in 5 minutes, for instance. Where's your mot? . Any type of alcohol-free beverage is called minerals in Ireland. Meaning: (Verb) The term dander is used in everyday conversation and means to walk.. Example: Shes a cute hoor for always getting what she wants. For instance, Mam made you some dinner. Later, Ill drop it off. Example: hey, dawn! Shes a wagon! It can mean someone is an idiot, a bit silly or just plain stupid. Youre acting the maggot. Give it a lash! Meaning: (Noun) Even though Ireland seems to only have vast fields and beautiful views, they also have cities. Maybe they are culchie. For instance, What an eejit, he used cooking oil on the lettuce thinking it was salad dressing.. To slag someone is to mock them. Jesus, Mary and Joseph This is one of those Irish things to say that every Irish mammy will utter, over and over again. How will he give you the life youve always dreamed of? Example: I need to grab the messages. Giving out Means someone is complaining about someone or something. You jammy sod Meaning you are very lucky. Rainey weather type. Example: Hey, there, young fella. 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. And I can tell you its not only my family that does this. In Ireland, we discuss the weather a lot. My stomach thinks my throats been cut An Irish slang phrase to indicate you are hungry. Example: Do you still want to go to the park? This Irish expression, which is overused and not unique to any one county, is used frequently. The most comprehensive online dictionary of Irish Slang. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite Irish proverbs. What were you thinking?! Bags (To make a bags of something) Make a mess of doing something. Learn more? Meaning: (Expression) The expression good woman is an exclamation used when a person is surprised or in disbelief. Meaning: (Expression) Bucketing down is one of the most used Irish slang phrases when there is a heavy downpour of rain. 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.. Cath is an Irish expat now living in Portugal. For instance, Im going in there right now and eating his head off! 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. Its pissing down today. Example: Its spitting outside but it might rain harder, so dont forget your umbrella. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Cop on to yourself Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. rinnai condensate drain installation Likes. You pup : You brazen individual. Example: Shell never find a man. Meaning: A scoldingExample of usage and translation: He spent the whole evening drinking at the pub. It is often used to refer to rougher parts of Dublin in particular. Example: You went to the beach? This term is used for an acquaintance and even for your father. For instance, Cmon. We should go outside and get some fresh air. Meaning: A person from the country, or basically anyone that comes from anywhere other than Dublin. The slang was taken from the original word and is now one of the common Irish sayings today. For the benefit of any American readers, let me clarify that when we say Craic in Ireland, we dont mean either the substance you smoke on a street corner or the crack in your arse. Its a grand day for drying This term is used to describe a day in which you can hang your clothes out on the washing line and get them dry. This is yet another mild example of Irish slang for someone you dont particularly like. Scarlet Is an Irish slang word for embarrassed. Shes a tool. Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more! Bang on. 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) Go and bollox is the Irish way of saying you are not agreeing with what a person is saying to you. Good luck A different way of saying goodbye to someone. Brit: A member of the British armed forces. Grand : good / okay. Broke to the bone: Hugely embarrassed. Thanks a million! Meaning: (Greeting) This Irish greeting is often used when a person comes home from the pub. If you hear this you should expect sunshine and warm weather, possibly a light breeze. Not sure if it will help. Top 25 Irish phrases and slang words used in daily life When people greet one another, a lot of crazy Irish slang words are frequently used. Example: You have an excellent eye for art. Howaya! Glad you enjoyed the post . 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. Example: All she does is show meaningless videos. This is said often in my area of Dublin as a bit of humour. Dye see yer wan over there with the red hat? is one example. Here are a few Irish expressions that I frequently use. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. I remember kids in school saying scarlet for you meaning Im so embarrassed for you. The weather is wet. 101 Irish Slang Words Locals Use in 2023 - The Irish Road Trip This expression means he or she wont be doing something. Meaning: Stop acting upNote: Most often said by ones mother, it basically means stop doing what youre doing right now, or suffer the consequences. For instance, Last night, her new fella was here. In recent years, Ive heard much less of this one. After that, we all returned to Sharons. Meaning: (Adjective) Gas, in Irish slang, is not the gas we used to operate a car or cook our food. Full of Tips, Reviews, Travel Blogs 7 Coronation Road, Launchese, London, NW10 7PQ, UNITED KINGDOM Contact us: [emailprotected] Read more. So, I actually believed that the term giving out was used widely. Banjaxed This is used to describe something that is broken or not working. Meaning: (Expression) Thanks a million is how an Irish person thanks another person for doing him or her a solid. She was down here last Sunday, for instance. We dont want him to see all these drinks. Hes going home to a tongin from the wife. But, this expression means a certain person is moving on from a negative relationship or situation. They can often be used in jest as well as in spite. The following section delves into Irish idioms and slang terms that Ive used in the past but that were completely lost on listeners. . Slang Define: What is Sound Out? - meaning and definition Im at a loss for words for this one. 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. Developed "straight from the horse's mouth". Meaning: (Noun) Midden was originally a Scottish word that later on was used to call an unattractive person from Ireland. It can be used in all manner of situations as an exasperation. Meaning: (Expression) The phrase Its pure shit means that its a rainy day. Were you born in a barn? For instance, Did you hear Bernie and Martins youngster cheated on the Garda exam. That young man is the Gobdaw, if there ever was one. 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. Hewya, me auld segotias An old Irish way of saying hi my friend. 15 . Courtin = Dating (term commonly used in Northern Ireland). Meaning: (Adjective) In Ireland, if one person calls you thick, he or she thinks you are stupid. This is hilarious! Its pure shit today. I dont know, but it sounds like some Irish slang Ive heard my entire life. The TV is banjaxed simply means its not working. So, to have a bad dose means to have a bad case of the flu or a cold. Please enter your username or email address to reset your password. Sarahs new fella was out last night, for example. My friend Mayo Declan is an expert in this field. Youll hear Dubliners saying town was jammers in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers. 15 Things That Might Amaze You, The Two Fascinating Capitals of Ireland Dublin and Belfast, What is a Banshee? Shes up there giving out to Tony about something, for instance. Example: You were in a heap last night! 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. Im famished! 19. 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. Example: Let me see the video again. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! I frequently use this one. Its Baltic/Its roasting Baltic indicates it is absolutely freezing outside, while roasting means it is really warm outside. Take a look below! Something that is dirty is referred to as manky. Meaning: (Expression) The word cracking is another Irish slang for good. It is mostly used in Northern Ireland. It can mean someone is an idiot, a bit silly or just plain stupid. 50+ Best Irish Slang Words And Phrases To Try Out - Ling App For instance, Mary, what a wonderful day it is today.. Travel Around Ireland is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. These cookies do not store any personal information. 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!) What are some must-know Irish slang words? : r/ireland - reddit He does appear to be possessed, flying around the garden. Fooling and messing around. , It is referred to as a yoke to describe the object. Sure you know yourself A confirmation of knowledge or unspoken acknowledgement about something or a situation. Ah, man, the heads are bouncing off of me, as an example. Meaning: (Phrase) Ogeous handling is a situation wherein the people are in danger. An Irish proverb that expresses approval of behavior is nice one. Such as, Ah, nice one! A significant number of Irish slang words that I had never heard of were discovered by the Instagram post. With my guide to certain Irish lingo, you will understand what the phrases mean and fit right in! Irish slang words and phrases and how to use them The state of you! Gammy : Useless. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Here are 20 Northern Irish phrases and what they mean in plain English. Hence, a precarious situation. It can mean you understand. Grand This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. It can also be used to indicate someone is irritated or angry. Stop acting the maggot. Bang on is a way to describe a person or a circumstance. IRISH SLANG: Top 80 words & phrases used in daily life In other words, face. Example: You gowl! Depending on the county, greetings tend to differ quite a bit. Although craic generally refers to fun, there are several other ways to use it, as with many Irish slang terms. Did you do that thing for yer man? is an example. He may have taken us in a taxi to our destination and then hopped out without paying for it, for instance. Another lovely Irish expression is banjaxed. 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. First, check out this brief guide to 10 of the more common words that may trip up the unsuspecting traveller. For instance, I called over yesterday and he talked for an hour about his new tractor. It wasnt very fun. Lets go somewhere else. When someone is Acting the maggot, they are dossing or messing around, which means they are not carrying out their intended task. He wouldnt spend Christmas This slang Irish phrase is used to describe someone who is mean with their money. Example: Hey, young wan! Wind yer neck in - shut up 17. Although I personally dont use the word feck, it is one of my favorites because it is associated with the wonderful Father Ted series. If youre unfamiliar with the terms, Bollox or Bollocks refer to a mans testicles in slang. If in doubt, dont! It is often used sarcastically. Why? Its important to remember that not everyone who describes themselves as grand actually is. Ah, another Irish proverb that describes something brilliant with a word that is actually used to describe something dangerous. 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, its like a midden. Gas If an Irish person says Thats gas, they are not referring to an actual gas, they mean something is funny! Add your Slang. Im tired already! Ill burst ye Can be used to indicate youre going to swing for someone/hit them. Some of my favorites are listed below. Example: This ice cream is just class. Can also describe someone who takes risks. . It also means good.. Example: Wow, you really did get me a concert ticket. For instance, She won money down the bingo this week once more. Jammy hoor! Example: Im glad to spend time with you this summer. Example: Sure look like its going to rain. 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. Meaning: (Noun) The word beour is Irish slang for an attractive girl. Hes sound means hes alright as a person. It can often be heard from irritated parents telling off their offspring. Keep doing that and youll be a pro in no time. Example: That boy is thick. Thats why he dropped out of school. 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?'. People can also say Im roasting meaning Im really hot. is really familiar. Meaning: (Expression) One of the funny Irish phrases today is suckin diesel because who would want to do that, right? Combine this piece of Irish slang with 'pound' (before 2002, the Irish currency used to be pounds) and . Bye, bye, bye, bye, bye One of my sisters in particular cannot hang up a phone call or WhatsApp conversation without at least saying bye five times or more. Usually only used informally among friends. This is a term that is frequently used in a crude manner, but it is also used in normal conversation. This is quite a common Irish expression in Dublin. Example: Theres no place for a latchio here! One of the most famous Irish words is 'grand.' Unfortunately it has a multitude of meanings depending on context. sound out irish slang. Did you see her taking a piss in front of the Garda station? = Oh my god, she was a disgrace. Urban Dictionary: Sound These can be a derogatory term or meant lightly. I had a rotten drunken night. It makes for a good conversation starter and is frequently up for discussion in both bars and retail establishments. Every day, I use slang. This is a phrase that means "a long time" or a "number of years". Shes away with the fairies An Irish expression used to describe someone who is living in their own little bubble (la la land) or isnt all there. 16. See what I did there! 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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: Why are you with that geebag? For more information read our privacy policy. This one, which is pronounced Ban-jacks-d, is also for someone who has overindulged significantly. Example: Lets not leave today. There is not one Irish person I dont know that doesnt utter this at least once after the clocks have changed. You may hear people saying hes an awful dryshite. Sound is also used to describe someone who is cool/alright. 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. 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. Meaning: (Expression) Minus craic is an Irish expression that means a person, thing, or situation is boring. Meaning: (Adjective) Dryshite is used in Ireland to describe a person, thing, or situation that is boring. A lot of the time, when Im speaking to someone who isnt Irish, I forget that the words Im using are actually slang. Your email address will not be published. For instance, Mrs. 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. Meaning: (Greeting) The term hows the form? is a greeting when you unexpectedly see a friend you havent spoken to in a while. Youre a clown, they say. Meaning: Im alrightExplanation: Often the answer to How are you?, Meaning: PartyExplanation: This is a blanket term for any kind of social gathering that has the potential to get a little loose.Example of usage and translation: Fair auld session last night there lads, great to get the lock in = Great night of merriment and music last night boys, delighted to be able to stay after hours in the pub, Meaning: Kissing with the tongueExamples of usage and translation: Here, will ye shift me mate? = Hey, will you kiss my friend? / Yer mans a great shift = That guys a really good kisser, Meaning: That guy / that girlExample of usage and translation: You know yer man, the ginger fella whos friends with Cathal = You know, that ginger guy whos friends with Cathal, Meaning: Im drunkNote: Gee is also a slang term for vagina, Meaning: Good looking person / sexExamples of usage and translation: Did ye get the ride off yer one last? = Did you have sex with that girl last night? / OMG, Brian ODriscoll is suuuuuuuuuuuuch a ride = Brian ODriscoll is hot. Giving out literally translates as to whine. 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. Example: Lets go home. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.