What's the Craic?

5:41 PM

   




   Now, you may remember a few blogs back when I talked about some of the Nirish-isms that may throw just about everyone but the Nirish off. The first day I walked into the Embassy, I found a little book that has proved quite handy in understanding Norn Irish. So, here are some quotes and some insights of my own into this unspeakable language. I would recommend reading these aloud for the full effect.


Yer Ma- this is a Nirish take off of the atypical "your mom" joke commonly found in provincial USA.

Are Far wart Nevin- the opening words of the Lord's prayer.

Bap- as in "Use your bap", meaning "Think before you speak".

Cattle- container or device for heating water.

Cupola- as in "Gissa cupola pints", meaning "Two pints when you have a minute"

Flay- wingless, bloodsucking insect

Banter- To speak with, also used in reference to good times being had.

Man flu- a type of flu known typically to only those of the male gender, generally felt to be untreatable, though seemingly, evincing large amounts of pain and suffering.

Ha- as in "See ya at ha fate", meaning " I will meet you at half past eight".

Ya got a bake on ya like a mango- You have a beak on you like a mango.

How's she cuttin'?- How are you doing?
Correct response: - Full to the blade!

Dead on- That's right, very good.

That's good banter- Good times.

What's the craic?- What's going on? or  How ya doing?

The craik is mighty (or ninety)- Also good times

*Much of these references are from the book "Yer Ma's Guide to Norn Irish"

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2 comments

  1. You forgot "wee" as in small, tiny, or just because you feel like making it an adjective to any noun, as in 'wee boy, wee book, wee babe in a manger"?

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