09-10-2021, 12:22 AM
The 95 Most Common Irish Slang Words
Sham - A friend.
Gowl - Annoying stupid person.
Feek - Gorgeous girl.
Quare - Another meaning for very or unuasl.
Yoke - Thing. any thing or object or person. ...
Savage - Very can be good or bad.
Pure - Really/very.
Cat - An effusive way to say that something is awful or terrible.*********************************
Irish slang phrases and meanings
Come here to me – You’ll hear this, usually, at the start of a conversation or sentence when someone wants to get your attention or has something important to me. When I was starting to put together this list with my husband, I wanted to run this list by him. He’d been in the middle of something on his computer, but when he turned around to me, I said “come here to me” (ie the first phrase) and his response was “I’m listening, haven’t I turned around”. He thought I was trying to get his attention, even though I already had it. I laughed until my belly hurt!
Jesus, Mary and Joseph – This is one of those Irish things to say that every Irish mammy will utter, over and over again. It can be used in all manner of situations as an exasperation. For example, if my son spills milk because he is not being careful pouring it, you’ll often hear me say “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, can you watch what you’re doing!”
I’ll burst ye – Can be used to indicate you’re going to swing for someone/hit them. This is quite a common Irish expression in Dublin.
Go away outta that – This is another Irish phrase that has a few meanings, depending on the situation. It can mean “you’re joking me” or “really” or for my Welsh readers, go away outta that = “never”.
Yer man over there – (with pointing or nodding of the head) This indicates that man over there.
Mocking is catching – If you are mocking or teasing someone about something, be careful karma doesn’t come to bite you in the backside!
Taking the piss – People say someone was taking the piss when they mean they were either being silly/stupid or they are teasing you. It can also mean they are taking advantage of you.
There’s 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. There is not one Irish person I don’t know that doesn’t utter this at least once after the clocks have changed.
A picture of the sun setting in the distance, lighting up the Cliffs of Moher along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Were you born in a barn? – Leave a door open unnecessarily in an Irish house and you’ll hear this expression coming your way. Barns in Ireland often do not have doors, which is why you’ll hear this being asked of those who forget to close the door behind them.
Are you going for the ‘cure’? – You’ll hear this being asked of people who are hungover after a heavy night. The ‘cure’ denotes a pint of beer/Guinness to cure the hangover. Whether it actually cures the hangover is up for debate.
I will, yeah – This has the opposite meaning to what is implied. 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!
Sure look – People might say “sure look, it’ll be grand” to respond to a question. In this case it is a vague answer of “it’ll be ok”. People can also use this Irish expression to say “it is what it is”.
Sure you know yourself – A confirmation of knowledge or unspoken acknowledgement about something or a situation. It can mean you understand. You can also use it to avoid making decisions, using it instead of “it’s up to you”. You can also use it to respond to a greeting without giving too much away about how you are doing.
You jammy sod – Meaning you are very lucky. When my sister told me she’d won €50 on a bet during the Irish Grand National my immediate response was “you jammy sod”.
A picture of a horseshoe on wood with a few shamrocks on it
She’s away with the fairies – An Irish expression used to describe someone who is living in their own little bubble (la la land) or isn’t all there. Can also be used to describe someone who isn’t facing reality about something or a situation.
If you fall and break your legs, don’t come running to me! – 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.
My stomach thinks my throat’s been cut – An Irish slang phrase to indicate you are hungry.
Good luck – A different way of saying goodbye to someone. My brother-in-law uses this term all the time.
It’s lashing/bucketing outside – Means it is pouring with rain outside. And I mean heavy rain.
It’s a grand, soft day – Means it’s a rainy day, but more so fine, misty rain than pouring rain.
A picture of colourful umbrellas strung across buildings in Dublin in the air
It’s 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. Given the lack of dry days in Ireland, you’ll be lucky to hear this said too often! If you hear this you should expect sunshine and warm weather, possibly a light breeze.
Cop on to yourself – Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. Or to tell someone to get sense about something.
Fair play – This Irish phrase is used a lot to tell someone “well done” for something they have done, completed or achieved. Or something they themselves wouldn’t attempt. For example, Mary says “John bungee jumped in Costa Rica last week”, to which Patrick, who would never do a bungee jump, responds “fair play to him”.
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. It can also be used to indicate someone is irritated or angry.
Giving out – Means someone is complaining about someone or something. “She’s always giving out” means she’s always complaining or moaning.
She’d talk the hind legs off a donkey – This girl/woman is a right chatterbox, never stops talking.
She’s 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. 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).
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.
Stall it – An Irish way of saying wait, stop, pause. You’ll hear “stall it” when someone wants to pause at a shop and pop inside and they need their friends to stop and wait.
A picture of a chalk board with the words "wait a moment" written on it in chalk
Give it a lash – This is used to tell someone to give it a go, try it, give it a whirl. Not to be confused with the following.
Going on the lash – Means going on a pub crawl, going for as many alcoholic drinks it takes to get drunk. “I’m going on the lash at the weekend” means I am going out drinking this weekend.
He put the heart across me – Means that person gave me a real scare/frightened me. Usually when a child has a near-miss at hurting themselves, you’ll hear grandparents saying “he put the heart across me”.
He wouldn’t spend Christmas – This slang Irish phrase is used to describe someone who is mean with their money.
He still has his communion money – Another expression used to describe a person who is tight with their money.
He’s a right chancer – This Irish term is used when talking about someone who chances their arm. Can also describe someone who takes risks.
To make a long story short – This can be used at the start of an explanation but beware, it doesn’t always mean it’ll be a short story. It might still be long, just a slightly shorter version of the whole story. You’ve been warned!
Wait till I tell you – This term is used at the start of a conversation that will entail gossip and scandal. 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.
Donkey’s years – Used to refer to a very long time. “I haven’t seen him in donkey’s years” means that you haven’t seen that person for a very long time. You will often hear Irish expats say “I haven’t heard that in donkey’s years” meaning whatever it is being said to them, they haven’t heard that in years and years. A bit like some of these phrases for me!
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”. Irish mammies say this when children are not paying attention or don’t hear them and implies there is enough dirt in their ears, preventing them from listening, to grow potatoes.
You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear – This is a common phrase you’ll hear older Irish people sayings which implies you cannot make something good from something that is naturally bad. If something is inferior or ugly, you cannot change it into something of value or attractive.
May God strike me down/dead – When someone uses this term it can often be in conjunction with “if I’m lying” to indicate that they are telling the truth and being honest with you.
It’s Baltic/It’s roasting – Baltic indicates it is absolutely freezing outside, while roasting means it is really warm outside. People can also say “I’m roasting” meaning I’m really hot.
On me tod – People use this Irish slang phrase to let others know they were alone when doing something or going somewhere.
Leg it – This is used to tell someone to “run”. “I legged it for the bus” means I ran for the bus.
Get outta that garden – A fun Irish phrase used to get a laugh or reaction or can also be said to someone who is being nosy or doing something they shouldn’t. This is said often in my area of Dublin as a bit of humour.
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. If she thinks five is not enough, she’ll repeat it. And I can tell you it’s not only my family that does this. Ask any Irish person!
The word "bye" written in sand on a beach
Irish slang words and meanings
Eejit – This is probably one of the most commonly used Irish slang terms that I know of. It can mean someone is an idiot, a bit silly or just plain stupid. You’ll often hear “he’s an awful eejit” meaning he’s a bit dumb.
Gobshite – An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person.
Muppet – Another word for stupid and can be substituted for eejit. Can also mean someone is a fool.
Grand – This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. “Sure, it’ll be grand” means it will be ok. Or if someone responds to the questions “how are you” with grand, it means they’re ok/fine.
Culchie/Langer – These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives “down the country” and isn’t a Dub. These can be a derogatory term or meant lightly. But be careful if trying to use it yourself as the person on the receiving end might take offense.
A picture of lush green fields in the countryside of Ireland with hills in the background
Dryshite – A term used to describe someone who is boring, really boring. Someone who has no life or laughs in him. You may hear people saying “ he’s an awful dryshite”.
Sound – A word that can often be used instead of grand or okay. It can also sometimes be used instead of thanks. For example, Richard says “I got you a pint cause I was at the bar” to which Mick responds “sound”. Sound is also used to describe someone who is cool/alright. “He’s sound” means he’s alright as a person.
Scarlet – Is an Irish slang word for embarrassed. I remember kids in school saying “scarlet for you” meaning “I’m so embarrassed for you”. Comes from the fact that some people’s cheeks go red with embarrassment.
Deadly – Indicates that something is cool or awesome. People often answer with this expression when someone tells them something great. For example, “I managed to book tickets for that concert you were telling me about Paddy”, to which Paddy replies “deadly”.
Leppin – Another word for starving or hungry.
Craic – A word with a few meanings. It can mean fun, going’s on or gossip. “What’s the craic” can also be used to say hello to someone meaning “hi, any gossip/how is it going”. If someone says “the craic was 90” it means the fun, laughter and joviality was amazing.
A group of people in a pub raising their pint glasses in a cheers motion
Yoke – A word used instead of saying “thing”. Can also be used to mean a person. For example, “that yoke over there” means that thing over there but can also mean that person over there.
Gas – If an Irish person says “That’s gas”, they are not referring to an actual gas, they mean something is funny! You could say some of these Irish funny phrases are gas. See what I did there!
The “Jacks” – An Irish slang word for the toilet.
Banjaxed – This is used to describe something that is broken or not working. “The TV is banjaxed” simply means it’s not working.
Manky – Used to describe something that is dirty, horrible, ugly or disgusting. “A manky day out” refers to a day that is grey, miserable and probably raining too.
Janie (mac) – An expression to denote shock or exasperation.
Slievene – Means a sneaky person. “He’s a slievene” means he’s a sneaky so-and-so.
Raging – An Irish expression means someone is angry or disappointed with themselves. “I was raging I missed it” means I’m so disappointed I missed it. But “he was raging with her” means he was so angry with her.
Kip – This Irish slang word has two meanings. 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. It is often used to refer to rougher parts of Dublin in particular.
Gaff – The Irish slang word for house. If a teenager says they’ve a “free gaff” it usually means their parents are away/out and a party may ensue.
A picture of a traditional house with thatched roof in Ireland and an old red cart with old milk pails on it
Jammers – when someone says “it was jammers” this means the bus/pub/train was packed with people. You’ll hear Dubliners saying “town was jammers” in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers.
Slagging – This Irish term means teasing someone or means insulting someone behind their backs.
Dose – Means a case of illness. So, to have a “bad dose” means to have a bad case of the flu or a cold.
Irish expressions for greeting someone
Howya/Hewya – “How are you” cobbled into a one-word expression.
What’s the story? – Simply means what’s happening. This is often combined with howya/hewya, especially in Dublin so you may hear “howya, what’s the story?” as a greeting between people.
Story horse? – As above, usually instead of saying something like “hi buddy, any news”.
What’s the craic? – Same as what’s the story.
Hewya, me auld segotias – An old Irish way of saying “hi my friend”.
How’s the form?
How’s she hanging?
A graphic with the word Hello in various languages
Irish slang for drunk
All of these Irish slang words can be used to describe someone who is drunk. Just substitute drunk in “he’s drunk” or “I was drunk” with one of the following words:
pissed (as a fart)
locked
shit-faced
fucked
plastered
hammered
bollixed
fluthered
langered (a very country thing to say)
paralletic
ossified
banjaxed
scuttered
in tatters
in a heap
rat-arsed
in rag order/ribbons
steaming
half cut
paralytic
legless
A picture of three pints of beers being clinked together to say Cheers
Irish swear words and insult phrases
These Irish words and phrases include swear words or insults. They can often be used in jest as well as in spite.
Feck/Friggin/Flippin – All stem from fuck and are a lesser harsh version. You’ll often hear Irish mammies say “ah feck” instead of the f-word around kids.
Bloody – Can be used instead of the f-word or its connotations above. For example, “it’s bloody freezing” means it is really, really cold.
Shite – Meaning shit, rubbish or pants. “That was shite” can means that was rubbish.
To be pissed off/fucked off – Means to be annoyed with something/someone/a situation.
Ask me arse – Usually said to someone in response to a question to do something.
Bollocks/bollix – Can be used instead of saying bullshit. It can also be used in annoyance. For instance, John spills his pint of Guinness and shouts “Bollix” in annoyance. “Ah bollix” can also be used if you have forgotten something or done something wrong. It can be subsitited for “ah feck” but not around little ears!
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. My advice is not to use them unless you are certain of their meaning and the situation is appropriate. If in doubt, don’t!
A picture of a horseshoe in shamrocks with the words "Irish slang words and phrases" written above
Cath is an Irish expat now living in Portugal. She regularly returns to Ireland to explore more of the wonderful island with her family.
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Right, our first section is dedicated to the common Irish insults that you’ll likely encounter at one point or another.
It’s here that you’ll find the ‘Dopes’ and the ‘Gobshites’. I’ll pop a little note beside the more offensive phrases and words so that you don’t end up getting yourself in trouble.
1. Tool
Ah, tool. This is one of those Irish insults that isn’t overly offensive, and it’s one that I find myself using a fair bit.
For example, “Dad – you’re after blocking me in with your car again, you tool” or “Did you hear Tony clipped the pillar when he was reversing out of the drive the other day? Ah, shtap – he’s some tool that lad”.
2. Dryshite
I haven’t heard this one used that much as of late. It was one you’d hear a lot when you were in your first few years of college, and it’s usually used when someone won’t do something / go somewhere.
For example, “Here, we’re heading for a few pints in O’Toole’s before going into the match – are you coming?” “I can’t, man, I was out last night and I’m dying” “Ah, for fu*k sake, man, you’re some dryshite”.
3. Pup
This is another relatively tame one. I use this a fair bit when describing someone that’s been a bit bold, but you’ll often hear people say it about a child that has misbehaved.
For example, “I caught him eating cake from the fridge with his hands, the little pup” or “I heard about you on Saturday night, ya pup”.
4. Huair/Hoor (an Irish insult with both an offensive and a playful meaning)
I love the word ‘huair’ although I’m never sure whether or not it’s spelt ‘Huair’ or ‘Hoor‘. Anyway, this can be hugely offensive or it can be tame, depending on the context and who it’s being said to.
The word huair is often used to describe a promiscuous woman and is deemed to be severely offensive.
You’ll also hear it used when someone refers to a person as ‘a cute huair’, which loosely means the person is a bit of a rogue, but also pretty clever. This use isn’t seen to be offensive.
For example, “I heard you managed to wiggle your way into that concert on Friday, you cute huair. How’d you manage that? It’s been sold out for weeks”.
5. Wagon
This is another one that’s often used to describe women. Now, personally I’ve only ever really heard my girl mates use this when talking about other women.
For example, “Your one Deirdre got with Sarah’s boyfriend the other night. She’s a little wagon that one”.
6. Thick
In some countries, like the UK, you’ll hear someone being referred to as ‘thick’ as a way of describing them as stupid.
In Ireland, at times, you’ll hear someone being referred to as ‘a thick’ or ‘the thick’. You can also say ‘an awful thick’. It’s used to describe someone stupid, also, but for whatever reason, we throw in a ‘the’ or an ‘a’ before it.
7. Gobshite (a much-loved Irish insult)
Another one for describing someone that’s done something stupid or for using against someone that you just don’t like. This Irish insult is arguably one of the best known, thanks to its use in the magnificent Father Ted series.
For example, “That Maura one is some gobshite. She’s only after putting diesel in her aul one’s petrol car. The things f*cked”.
8. Bollocks
So, the word ‘Bollocks’ is Irish slang for, eh, testicles. I can safely say I never thought I’d be writing a guide that included the word ‘testicles’…
You can use the word ‘bollocks’ in a number of different ways.
‘Bollocks’ as an Irish insult is usually used like this, “You’re some thick bollocks, Martin. Why on earth would you get sick on the kitchen door, when you could have opened the fu*king thing”.
You can also use it to describe a frustrating situation, for example, “I’ve a pain in my bollocks with the dog, man. He keeps biting me. Constantly. He’s also pissing everywhere.”
9. Dope
You can’t bate the word ‘Dope’.
This is another Irish insult for someone that’s either 1, a bit dense or 2, has done something a bit dense.
For example, “That dope Conor’s after calling in sick. He says he has to mind his Mam. Apparently she’s after getting food poisoning from some dodgy chicken. Now, I know Conor’s Ma. And she’s a fu*king vegetarian.”
10. Gombeen (an old Irish insult)
This is a weird one. And I’ve only actually heard it used in Ireland once.
I was in a quiet little pub in Allihies in West Cork. As I was on my own, I was sat at the bar, chatting to the bloke behind it.
At one point, a fella came in and the two exchanged words at the end of the bar. After a minute, the fella left and the barman walked back up to me, referring to the chap as ‘Some Gombeen’.
When I asked him who he was he replied that the man was the local salesman for a whiskey company who kept trying to sell them bottles of whiskey.
A Gombeen is an old Irish insult/word that’s used to describe someone shady, or someone that’s a bit of a del-boy/wheeler-dealer-looking-to-make-a-quick-profit.
11. Eejit
Another one for describing someone that’s a bit dense.
For example, “That eejit is after locking his keys inside the house again. I’m going to have to go over there with a clothes hanger and try and get the door open”.
12. Sap
Ah, sap. My dad has been calling me this since I was about 5. It’s at the point now where it’s nearly a term of endearment.
The word ‘sap’ is usually used to describe someone you dislike – “That sap Karen was here again on Tuesday. She’s the most ignorant huair you’ll ever come across”.
13. Geebag
Right. This is another one that you need to be careful with. This is used solely for women and it can vary in offensiveness depending on the person.
What does it mean? God only knows. But it’s usually used to describe someone that’s being irritating. For example, “Some geebag spilt her drink all over me and then had the cheek to say that I knocked into her!”
14. Langer
A word used in Cork to describe someone dense. There’s a lot of Irish insults to describe someone stupid…
For example, “Johnny’s little brother was seen last week riding that bike with no fu*king lights, the langer. I was tempted to clip him with the wing mirror to teach him a lesson”.
15. Lickarse
Ah. Another favourite. The word ‘lickarse’ is an insult that’s often used in schools and the workplace.
It’s used to describe someone that’s falling about the place trying to impress a figure of authority.
For example, “He’s such a lickarse. He was in here at half 4 this morning preparing that report, the prick”.
16. Lazy Hole
Unsurprisingly enough, this one is used to describe someone that’s afraid of doing a bit of work.
For example, “Get out of the bed, lazy hole – we need to clean the gaff after the party last night. There’s shit everywhere”.
17. Pox bottle
When I was a kid there were several Irish curses that my dad used to use (before I got to an age that he’d curse in front of me).
Pox bottle was always one of them. To this day I’ve absolutely no idea what it means and it’s one you don’t tend to hear used that often.
Rolls off the tongue nicely, though… Pox. Bottle.
18. Narkey Hole
Ah, narkey hole. I fell like I’ve been using this one forever.
Although this falls into the Irish phrase/insult category, I’ve only ever really used it with friends, in a reasonably tame manner.
It’s used to describe someone that’s in a bit of a mood. For example, “Come on narkey hole – if you don’t hurry up and get ready we won’t get a seat.”
Related read: Check out our guide to 101 Irish slang words and phrases: a locals guide.
irish curse words and phrases guide
@ Tourism Ireland photographed by Tom Archer
Longer Offensive Irish Phrases and Insults
There’s a load of longer Irish phrases and insults that you can use to describe a variety of people and use in a number of situations.
Some of the below are playful enough, while others are reasonably offensive. I’ll add a little note to the more offensive ones so you know before you use them.
19. He could peel an orange in his pocket
In Ireland, we’ve many different ways to describe someone that’s cheap (tight with money).
This is one of my personal favourites – “Tom fu*ked off again without buying his round. Ah, shtap. Sure that lad could peel an orange in his pocket”.
20. He’s as thick as shite and only half as handy
The only two people that I know who use this are lads from Mayo, so this is possibly a west of Ireland insult.
Unsurprisingly enough, this ones used to describe a lad or lassie that’s a little bit dense. For example, “Carol’s young one was in working with us last week.” “Ah, she was on the same shift as me a few months back. She charged some lad 2 grand instead of 200 Euro. She’s as thick as shite and only half as handy – if even.”
21. If work was the bed he’d sleep on the floor
Another one for lazy fu*kers.
This is probably fairly obvious, but this Irish insult is basically describing how far a certain person would go to avoid doing a hard days work.
For example, “I asked Declan to take that bin out twice now, but it’s still there. If work was the bed, that lazy bollocks would sleep on the floor”.
22. Tighter than a camels hole in a sandstorm
This is another Irish phrase you can use to describe someone that’s tight with their money.
For example, ” That lad has owed me a tenner for the past 3 years. He’s tighter than a camels hole/arse in a sandstorm”.
23. An apple through a tennis racket
This Irish insult is fairly offensive. If you have a think about it for a second, you’ll probably be able to guess the facial feature that it makes fun of.
This is usually used when someone is referring to a person with fairly large front teeth. For example, “He has some chompers on him that fella – he’d have no bother knawing an apple through a tennis racket”.
24. The sea wouldn’t give him a wave
I’m laughing while typing this one as I haven’t heard it in years.
This is another one that could be fairly offensive, but the only time I’ve ever heard it used is between lads when they’re slagging each other.
It’s basically saying that the person isn’t attractive. Another similar Irish phrase that you hear used is “Sure the tide wouldn’t take him out”.
25. The head on you/ye/ya (multi-functional Irish phrase)
There are a million different ways to use “The head on ya” and while some are in no way offensive, others are. It all depends on the context.
For example, “Good God the head on you. How many pints did you have last night?” This is the non-offensive use of the phrase and you’ll hear it used when someone hungover walks into a room.
Another example (more offensive) would be, “The big thick head on your one over there.”
26. Face like a smacked arse
You tend to head this one used a fair bit to describe someone with a bright red face, either from physical excursion or embarrassment.
For example, “He’s been playing wrestling in the living room with his brother for the past hour. The state of him. He has a face like a smacked arse”.
27. The bleedin’ state of ye
This is a very North Dublin insult and one that I used to hear used a lot when I was a kid.
It’s used in a variety of ways and tends to be used by people who can’t muster the creativity to come up with a proper insult.
“The state of ye” is normally used to describe someone with a scruffy physical appearance, but you can also hear it used when one person is trying to hit someone with a hurtful insult but can’t think of one.
28. If she was any longer she’d be late
This Irish insult is used to describe someone that’s very tall.
For example, “The height of your man over there – if he was any longer he’d be late”. “That’s Tommy Monaghan’s young fella. They’re all big huairs in that family”.
29. If he had brains he’d be dangerous
This is another one for describing someone that’s stupid/after doing something stupid.
“That tool Michael Carthy was caught up in Cronin’s yard last Monday night with young Tony Slattery. The pair of them sniffing glue and drinking gin.”
“Young Slattery’s like his aul lad. If either of them had brains they’d be dangerous”.
30. He wouldn’t give you the steam off of his piss
A slightly more vulgar Irish insult up next that’s used to describe someone that’s cheap/tight with their money.
For example, “I got a taxi home with Shane last Friday. It was 70 poxy Euro and he only told me when he was getting out that he had no money with him.” “He’s a miserable f*cker that lad – wouldn’t give you the steam off of his piss”.
31. Scarlet for your ma for having you
This is a Dublin insult that’s generally pronounced, “SCAR-LEEEEH FOR YER MAH FER HAVIN YEEEE”.
I haven’t heard this one used in a while, but it’s generally used on someone that’s done something embarrassing or stupid.
For example, “I heard you got sick all over Sheamus Morrisey’s front door last night, you mess. Scarlet for your ma for havin ye. You’d want to avoid his Mother for the next few months.”
32. He’s a Stingy bollocks
Good God there’s a lot of Irish phrases for describing someone that’s tight with cash. Right, this is another one.
For example, “That stingy bollocks tried to get a discount on the Toyota we have out back. Sure I’ve already knocked 2 grand off of the asking price”.
33. She’s minus craic
‘Minus craic’ and ‘dry shite’ are both fine ways to describe someone that’s being boring.
For example. “Will you stop being minus craic and come out for a few pints. You can’t sit in here all night like a dry shite”.
Irish curses and insults
Creamy pints from the 2018 markets
What Irish curse words and insulting Irish phrases have we missed?
Have something that you think we should add?
Pop a comment into the comments section below and I’ll take a look!
Keith O'Hara
Howaya! Thanks for visiting the Irish road trip! This site exists to inspire and guide you on an Irish adventure that’ll give birth to a lifetime of memories (sounds very arsey altogether, I know!) You'll find everything from things to do in Ireland to where to stay in Ireland (unique and unusual places) if you have a nosey around!
6 COMMENTS
Jarmo Hautakoski January 7, 2020 At 7:45 pm
Many thanks for this you tool.
Reply
Irish steve February 3, 2020 At 4:01 pm
You forgot
Dickweed
Ballbag
Best part of ye ran down yer ma”s leg
Soup drinker
Reply
Christopher April 9, 2020 At 5:25 am
‘Prick’ is an oft used term in my family. A ‘prick’ is someone you don’t like, or if someone calls you out on something. Especially if it’s someone you know… almost a term of endearment in our house.
You coming for pints?
No.
Prick.
Also, you left out ‘I willin’mehole’… (I won’t)
Will you go to the shops for groceries?
I willin’mehole
Reply
Maree December 5, 2020 At 9:12 pm
Where I’m from (Clare), ‘wagon’ has a double meaning similar to ‘hoor’ (never seen that spelled any other way, BTW)
1) An insult, as in the example you gave above: ‘She’s a little wagon, that one.’
2) An expression of admiration, much like ‘Shut uuup’: ‘You paid only only 5 euro for that dress? You wagon!’
Reply
Ewan April 3, 2021 At 1:35 am
Ya forgot one saying…… they look like a bulldog eating a wasp. Meaning a sour puss on there face
Reply
Annemarie Killeen September 8, 2021 At 5:56 pm
I don’t know how to spell it, but I love the word ‘galpín”, or in Ulster Scots “gulpin”. Also “loother” (again, phonetic spelling), a favourite of Pat Shortt’s character in Killinaskully
If'n u r easily offended, move on, please!
Sham - A friend.
Gowl - Annoying stupid person.
Feek - Gorgeous girl.
Quare - Another meaning for very or unuasl.
Yoke - Thing. any thing or object or person. ...
Savage - Very can be good or bad.
Pure - Really/very.
Cat - An effusive way to say that something is awful or terrible.*********************************
Irish slang phrases and meanings
Come here to me – You’ll hear this, usually, at the start of a conversation or sentence when someone wants to get your attention or has something important to me. When I was starting to put together this list with my husband, I wanted to run this list by him. He’d been in the middle of something on his computer, but when he turned around to me, I said “come here to me” (ie the first phrase) and his response was “I’m listening, haven’t I turned around”. He thought I was trying to get his attention, even though I already had it. I laughed until my belly hurt!
Jesus, Mary and Joseph – This is one of those Irish things to say that every Irish mammy will utter, over and over again. It can be used in all manner of situations as an exasperation. For example, if my son spills milk because he is not being careful pouring it, you’ll often hear me say “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, can you watch what you’re doing!”
I’ll burst ye – Can be used to indicate you’re going to swing for someone/hit them. This is quite a common Irish expression in Dublin.
Go away outta that – This is another Irish phrase that has a few meanings, depending on the situation. It can mean “you’re joking me” or “really” or for my Welsh readers, go away outta that = “never”.
Yer man over there – (with pointing or nodding of the head) This indicates that man over there.
Mocking is catching – If you are mocking or teasing someone about something, be careful karma doesn’t come to bite you in the backside!
Taking the piss – People say someone was taking the piss when they mean they were either being silly/stupid or they are teasing you. It can also mean they are taking advantage of you.
There’s 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. There is not one Irish person I don’t know that doesn’t utter this at least once after the clocks have changed.
A picture of the sun setting in the distance, lighting up the Cliffs of Moher along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Were you born in a barn? – Leave a door open unnecessarily in an Irish house and you’ll hear this expression coming your way. Barns in Ireland often do not have doors, which is why you’ll hear this being asked of those who forget to close the door behind them.
Are you going for the ‘cure’? – You’ll hear this being asked of people who are hungover after a heavy night. The ‘cure’ denotes a pint of beer/Guinness to cure the hangover. Whether it actually cures the hangover is up for debate.
I will, yeah – This has the opposite meaning to what is implied. 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!
Sure look – People might say “sure look, it’ll be grand” to respond to a question. In this case it is a vague answer of “it’ll be ok”. People can also use this Irish expression to say “it is what it is”.
Sure you know yourself – A confirmation of knowledge or unspoken acknowledgement about something or a situation. It can mean you understand. You can also use it to avoid making decisions, using it instead of “it’s up to you”. You can also use it to respond to a greeting without giving too much away about how you are doing.
You jammy sod – Meaning you are very lucky. When my sister told me she’d won €50 on a bet during the Irish Grand National my immediate response was “you jammy sod”.
A picture of a horseshoe on wood with a few shamrocks on it
She’s away with the fairies – An Irish expression used to describe someone who is living in their own little bubble (la la land) or isn’t all there. Can also be used to describe someone who isn’t facing reality about something or a situation.
If you fall and break your legs, don’t come running to me! – 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.
My stomach thinks my throat’s been cut – An Irish slang phrase to indicate you are hungry.
Good luck – A different way of saying goodbye to someone. My brother-in-law uses this term all the time.
It’s lashing/bucketing outside – Means it is pouring with rain outside. And I mean heavy rain.
It’s a grand, soft day – Means it’s a rainy day, but more so fine, misty rain than pouring rain.
A picture of colourful umbrellas strung across buildings in Dublin in the air
It’s 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. Given the lack of dry days in Ireland, you’ll be lucky to hear this said too often! If you hear this you should expect sunshine and warm weather, possibly a light breeze.
Cop on to yourself – Used to tell someone to pull themselves together. Or to tell someone to get sense about something.
Fair play – This Irish phrase is used a lot to tell someone “well done” for something they have done, completed or achieved. Or something they themselves wouldn’t attempt. For example, Mary says “John bungee jumped in Costa Rica last week”, to which Patrick, who would never do a bungee jump, responds “fair play to him”.
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. It can also be used to indicate someone is irritated or angry.
Giving out – Means someone is complaining about someone or something. “She’s always giving out” means she’s always complaining or moaning.
She’d talk the hind legs off a donkey – This girl/woman is a right chatterbox, never stops talking.
She’s 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. 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).
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.
Stall it – An Irish way of saying wait, stop, pause. You’ll hear “stall it” when someone wants to pause at a shop and pop inside and they need their friends to stop and wait.
A picture of a chalk board with the words "wait a moment" written on it in chalk
Give it a lash – This is used to tell someone to give it a go, try it, give it a whirl. Not to be confused with the following.
Going on the lash – Means going on a pub crawl, going for as many alcoholic drinks it takes to get drunk. “I’m going on the lash at the weekend” means I am going out drinking this weekend.
He put the heart across me – Means that person gave me a real scare/frightened me. Usually when a child has a near-miss at hurting themselves, you’ll hear grandparents saying “he put the heart across me”.
He wouldn’t spend Christmas – This slang Irish phrase is used to describe someone who is mean with their money.
He still has his communion money – Another expression used to describe a person who is tight with their money.
He’s a right chancer – This Irish term is used when talking about someone who chances their arm. Can also describe someone who takes risks.
To make a long story short – This can be used at the start of an explanation but beware, it doesn’t always mean it’ll be a short story. It might still be long, just a slightly shorter version of the whole story. You’ve been warned!
Wait till I tell you – This term is used at the start of a conversation that will entail gossip and scandal. 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.
Donkey’s years – Used to refer to a very long time. “I haven’t seen him in donkey’s years” means that you haven’t seen that person for a very long time. You will often hear Irish expats say “I haven’t heard that in donkey’s years” meaning whatever it is being said to them, they haven’t heard that in years and years. A bit like some of these phrases for me!
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”. Irish mammies say this when children are not paying attention or don’t hear them and implies there is enough dirt in their ears, preventing them from listening, to grow potatoes.
You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear – This is a common phrase you’ll hear older Irish people sayings which implies you cannot make something good from something that is naturally bad. If something is inferior or ugly, you cannot change it into something of value or attractive.
May God strike me down/dead – When someone uses this term it can often be in conjunction with “if I’m lying” to indicate that they are telling the truth and being honest with you.
It’s Baltic/It’s roasting – Baltic indicates it is absolutely freezing outside, while roasting means it is really warm outside. People can also say “I’m roasting” meaning I’m really hot.
On me tod – People use this Irish slang phrase to let others know they were alone when doing something or going somewhere.
Leg it – This is used to tell someone to “run”. “I legged it for the bus” means I ran for the bus.
Get outta that garden – A fun Irish phrase used to get a laugh or reaction or can also be said to someone who is being nosy or doing something they shouldn’t. This is said often in my area of Dublin as a bit of humour.
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. If she thinks five is not enough, she’ll repeat it. And I can tell you it’s not only my family that does this. Ask any Irish person!
The word "bye" written in sand on a beach
Irish slang words and meanings
Eejit – This is probably one of the most commonly used Irish slang terms that I know of. It can mean someone is an idiot, a bit silly or just plain stupid. You’ll often hear “he’s an awful eejit” meaning he’s a bit dumb.
Gobshite – An Irish slang word for fool, eejit, stupid person.
Muppet – Another word for stupid and can be substituted for eejit. Can also mean someone is a fool.
Grand – This is used in Irish phrases instead of using the word okay. “Sure, it’ll be grand” means it will be ok. Or if someone responds to the questions “how are you” with grand, it means they’re ok/fine.
Culchie/Langer – These are terms that usually refer to someone to who lives “down the country” and isn’t a Dub. These can be a derogatory term or meant lightly. But be careful if trying to use it yourself as the person on the receiving end might take offense.
A picture of lush green fields in the countryside of Ireland with hills in the background
Dryshite – A term used to describe someone who is boring, really boring. Someone who has no life or laughs in him. You may hear people saying “ he’s an awful dryshite”.
Sound – A word that can often be used instead of grand or okay. It can also sometimes be used instead of thanks. For example, Richard says “I got you a pint cause I was at the bar” to which Mick responds “sound”. Sound is also used to describe someone who is cool/alright. “He’s sound” means he’s alright as a person.
Scarlet – Is an Irish slang word for embarrassed. I remember kids in school saying “scarlet for you” meaning “I’m so embarrassed for you”. Comes from the fact that some people’s cheeks go red with embarrassment.
Deadly – Indicates that something is cool or awesome. People often answer with this expression when someone tells them something great. For example, “I managed to book tickets for that concert you were telling me about Paddy”, to which Paddy replies “deadly”.
Leppin – Another word for starving or hungry.
Craic – A word with a few meanings. It can mean fun, going’s on or gossip. “What’s the craic” can also be used to say hello to someone meaning “hi, any gossip/how is it going”. If someone says “the craic was 90” it means the fun, laughter and joviality was amazing.
A group of people in a pub raising their pint glasses in a cheers motion
Yoke – A word used instead of saying “thing”. Can also be used to mean a person. For example, “that yoke over there” means that thing over there but can also mean that person over there.
Gas – If an Irish person says “That’s gas”, they are not referring to an actual gas, they mean something is funny! You could say some of these Irish funny phrases are gas. See what I did there!
The “Jacks” – An Irish slang word for the toilet.
Banjaxed – This is used to describe something that is broken or not working. “The TV is banjaxed” simply means it’s not working.
Manky – Used to describe something that is dirty, horrible, ugly or disgusting. “A manky day out” refers to a day that is grey, miserable and probably raining too.
Janie (mac) – An expression to denote shock or exasperation.
Slievene – Means a sneaky person. “He’s a slievene” means he’s a sneaky so-and-so.
Raging – An Irish expression means someone is angry or disappointed with themselves. “I was raging I missed it” means I’m so disappointed I missed it. But “he was raging with her” means he was so angry with her.
Kip – This Irish slang word has two meanings. 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. It is often used to refer to rougher parts of Dublin in particular.
Gaff – The Irish slang word for house. If a teenager says they’ve a “free gaff” it usually means their parents are away/out and a party may ensue.
A picture of a traditional house with thatched roof in Ireland and an old red cart with old milk pails on it
Jammers – when someone says “it was jammers” this means the bus/pub/train was packed with people. You’ll hear Dubliners saying “town was jammers” in the run up to Christmas when the streets are full of shoppers.
Slagging – This Irish term means teasing someone or means insulting someone behind their backs.
Dose – Means a case of illness. So, to have a “bad dose” means to have a bad case of the flu or a cold.
Irish expressions for greeting someone
Howya/Hewya – “How are you” cobbled into a one-word expression.
What’s the story? – Simply means what’s happening. This is often combined with howya/hewya, especially in Dublin so you may hear “howya, what’s the story?” as a greeting between people.
Story horse? – As above, usually instead of saying something like “hi buddy, any news”.
What’s the craic? – Same as what’s the story.
Hewya, me auld segotias – An old Irish way of saying “hi my friend”.
How’s the form?
How’s she hanging?
A graphic with the word Hello in various languages
Irish slang for drunk
All of these Irish slang words can be used to describe someone who is drunk. Just substitute drunk in “he’s drunk” or “I was drunk” with one of the following words:
pissed (as a fart)
locked
shit-faced
fucked
plastered
hammered
bollixed
fluthered
langered (a very country thing to say)
paralletic
ossified
banjaxed
scuttered
in tatters
in a heap
rat-arsed
in rag order/ribbons
steaming
half cut
paralytic
legless
A picture of three pints of beers being clinked together to say Cheers
Irish swear words and insult phrases
These Irish words and phrases include swear words or insults. They can often be used in jest as well as in spite.
Feck/Friggin/Flippin – All stem from fuck and are a lesser harsh version. You’ll often hear Irish mammies say “ah feck” instead of the f-word around kids.
Bloody – Can be used instead of the f-word or its connotations above. For example, “it’s bloody freezing” means it is really, really cold.
Shite – Meaning shit, rubbish or pants. “That was shite” can means that was rubbish.
To be pissed off/fucked off – Means to be annoyed with something/someone/a situation.
Ask me arse – Usually said to someone in response to a question to do something.
Bollocks/bollix – Can be used instead of saying bullshit. It can also be used in annoyance. For instance, John spills his pint of Guinness and shouts “Bollix” in annoyance. “Ah bollix” can also be used if you have forgotten something or done something wrong. It can be subsitited for “ah feck” but not around little ears!
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. My advice is not to use them unless you are certain of their meaning and the situation is appropriate. If in doubt, don’t!
A picture of a horseshoe in shamrocks with the words "Irish slang words and phrases" written above
Cath is an Irish expat now living in Portugal. She regularly returns to Ireland to explore more of the wonderful island with her family.
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Right, our first section is dedicated to the common Irish insults that you’ll likely encounter at one point or another.
It’s here that you’ll find the ‘Dopes’ and the ‘Gobshites’. I’ll pop a little note beside the more offensive phrases and words so that you don’t end up getting yourself in trouble.
1. Tool
Ah, tool. This is one of those Irish insults that isn’t overly offensive, and it’s one that I find myself using a fair bit.
For example, “Dad – you’re after blocking me in with your car again, you tool” or “Did you hear Tony clipped the pillar when he was reversing out of the drive the other day? Ah, shtap – he’s some tool that lad”.
2. Dryshite
I haven’t heard this one used that much as of late. It was one you’d hear a lot when you were in your first few years of college, and it’s usually used when someone won’t do something / go somewhere.
For example, “Here, we’re heading for a few pints in O’Toole’s before going into the match – are you coming?” “I can’t, man, I was out last night and I’m dying” “Ah, for fu*k sake, man, you’re some dryshite”.
3. Pup
This is another relatively tame one. I use this a fair bit when describing someone that’s been a bit bold, but you’ll often hear people say it about a child that has misbehaved.
For example, “I caught him eating cake from the fridge with his hands, the little pup” or “I heard about you on Saturday night, ya pup”.
4. Huair/Hoor (an Irish insult with both an offensive and a playful meaning)
I love the word ‘huair’ although I’m never sure whether or not it’s spelt ‘Huair’ or ‘Hoor‘. Anyway, this can be hugely offensive or it can be tame, depending on the context and who it’s being said to.
The word huair is often used to describe a promiscuous woman and is deemed to be severely offensive.
You’ll also hear it used when someone refers to a person as ‘a cute huair’, which loosely means the person is a bit of a rogue, but also pretty clever. This use isn’t seen to be offensive.
For example, “I heard you managed to wiggle your way into that concert on Friday, you cute huair. How’d you manage that? It’s been sold out for weeks”.
5. Wagon
This is another one that’s often used to describe women. Now, personally I’ve only ever really heard my girl mates use this when talking about other women.
For example, “Your one Deirdre got with Sarah’s boyfriend the other night. She’s a little wagon that one”.
6. Thick
In some countries, like the UK, you’ll hear someone being referred to as ‘thick’ as a way of describing them as stupid.
In Ireland, at times, you’ll hear someone being referred to as ‘a thick’ or ‘the thick’. You can also say ‘an awful thick’. It’s used to describe someone stupid, also, but for whatever reason, we throw in a ‘the’ or an ‘a’ before it.
7. Gobshite (a much-loved Irish insult)
Another one for describing someone that’s done something stupid or for using against someone that you just don’t like. This Irish insult is arguably one of the best known, thanks to its use in the magnificent Father Ted series.
For example, “That Maura one is some gobshite. She’s only after putting diesel in her aul one’s petrol car. The things f*cked”.
8. Bollocks
So, the word ‘Bollocks’ is Irish slang for, eh, testicles. I can safely say I never thought I’d be writing a guide that included the word ‘testicles’…
You can use the word ‘bollocks’ in a number of different ways.
‘Bollocks’ as an Irish insult is usually used like this, “You’re some thick bollocks, Martin. Why on earth would you get sick on the kitchen door, when you could have opened the fu*king thing”.
You can also use it to describe a frustrating situation, for example, “I’ve a pain in my bollocks with the dog, man. He keeps biting me. Constantly. He’s also pissing everywhere.”
9. Dope
You can’t bate the word ‘Dope’.
This is another Irish insult for someone that’s either 1, a bit dense or 2, has done something a bit dense.
For example, “That dope Conor’s after calling in sick. He says he has to mind his Mam. Apparently she’s after getting food poisoning from some dodgy chicken. Now, I know Conor’s Ma. And she’s a fu*king vegetarian.”
10. Gombeen (an old Irish insult)
This is a weird one. And I’ve only actually heard it used in Ireland once.
I was in a quiet little pub in Allihies in West Cork. As I was on my own, I was sat at the bar, chatting to the bloke behind it.
At one point, a fella came in and the two exchanged words at the end of the bar. After a minute, the fella left and the barman walked back up to me, referring to the chap as ‘Some Gombeen’.
When I asked him who he was he replied that the man was the local salesman for a whiskey company who kept trying to sell them bottles of whiskey.
A Gombeen is an old Irish insult/word that’s used to describe someone shady, or someone that’s a bit of a del-boy/wheeler-dealer-looking-to-make-a-quick-profit.
11. Eejit
Another one for describing someone that’s a bit dense.
For example, “That eejit is after locking his keys inside the house again. I’m going to have to go over there with a clothes hanger and try and get the door open”.
12. Sap
Ah, sap. My dad has been calling me this since I was about 5. It’s at the point now where it’s nearly a term of endearment.
The word ‘sap’ is usually used to describe someone you dislike – “That sap Karen was here again on Tuesday. She’s the most ignorant huair you’ll ever come across”.
13. Geebag
Right. This is another one that you need to be careful with. This is used solely for women and it can vary in offensiveness depending on the person.
What does it mean? God only knows. But it’s usually used to describe someone that’s being irritating. For example, “Some geebag spilt her drink all over me and then had the cheek to say that I knocked into her!”
14. Langer
A word used in Cork to describe someone dense. There’s a lot of Irish insults to describe someone stupid…
For example, “Johnny’s little brother was seen last week riding that bike with no fu*king lights, the langer. I was tempted to clip him with the wing mirror to teach him a lesson”.
15. Lickarse
Ah. Another favourite. The word ‘lickarse’ is an insult that’s often used in schools and the workplace.
It’s used to describe someone that’s falling about the place trying to impress a figure of authority.
For example, “He’s such a lickarse. He was in here at half 4 this morning preparing that report, the prick”.
16. Lazy Hole
Unsurprisingly enough, this one is used to describe someone that’s afraid of doing a bit of work.
For example, “Get out of the bed, lazy hole – we need to clean the gaff after the party last night. There’s shit everywhere”.
17. Pox bottle
When I was a kid there were several Irish curses that my dad used to use (before I got to an age that he’d curse in front of me).
Pox bottle was always one of them. To this day I’ve absolutely no idea what it means and it’s one you don’t tend to hear used that often.
Rolls off the tongue nicely, though… Pox. Bottle.
18. Narkey Hole
Ah, narkey hole. I fell like I’ve been using this one forever.
Although this falls into the Irish phrase/insult category, I’ve only ever really used it with friends, in a reasonably tame manner.
It’s used to describe someone that’s in a bit of a mood. For example, “Come on narkey hole – if you don’t hurry up and get ready we won’t get a seat.”
Related read: Check out our guide to 101 Irish slang words and phrases: a locals guide.
irish curse words and phrases guide
@ Tourism Ireland photographed by Tom Archer
Longer Offensive Irish Phrases and Insults
There’s a load of longer Irish phrases and insults that you can use to describe a variety of people and use in a number of situations.
Some of the below are playful enough, while others are reasonably offensive. I’ll add a little note to the more offensive ones so you know before you use them.
19. He could peel an orange in his pocket
In Ireland, we’ve many different ways to describe someone that’s cheap (tight with money).
This is one of my personal favourites – “Tom fu*ked off again without buying his round. Ah, shtap. Sure that lad could peel an orange in his pocket”.
20. He’s as thick as shite and only half as handy
The only two people that I know who use this are lads from Mayo, so this is possibly a west of Ireland insult.
Unsurprisingly enough, this ones used to describe a lad or lassie that’s a little bit dense. For example, “Carol’s young one was in working with us last week.” “Ah, she was on the same shift as me a few months back. She charged some lad 2 grand instead of 200 Euro. She’s as thick as shite and only half as handy – if even.”
21. If work was the bed he’d sleep on the floor
Another one for lazy fu*kers.
This is probably fairly obvious, but this Irish insult is basically describing how far a certain person would go to avoid doing a hard days work.
For example, “I asked Declan to take that bin out twice now, but it’s still there. If work was the bed, that lazy bollocks would sleep on the floor”.
22. Tighter than a camels hole in a sandstorm
This is another Irish phrase you can use to describe someone that’s tight with their money.
For example, ” That lad has owed me a tenner for the past 3 years. He’s tighter than a camels hole/arse in a sandstorm”.
23. An apple through a tennis racket
This Irish insult is fairly offensive. If you have a think about it for a second, you’ll probably be able to guess the facial feature that it makes fun of.
This is usually used when someone is referring to a person with fairly large front teeth. For example, “He has some chompers on him that fella – he’d have no bother knawing an apple through a tennis racket”.
24. The sea wouldn’t give him a wave
I’m laughing while typing this one as I haven’t heard it in years.
This is another one that could be fairly offensive, but the only time I’ve ever heard it used is between lads when they’re slagging each other.
It’s basically saying that the person isn’t attractive. Another similar Irish phrase that you hear used is “Sure the tide wouldn’t take him out”.
25. The head on you/ye/ya (multi-functional Irish phrase)
There are a million different ways to use “The head on ya” and while some are in no way offensive, others are. It all depends on the context.
For example, “Good God the head on you. How many pints did you have last night?” This is the non-offensive use of the phrase and you’ll hear it used when someone hungover walks into a room.
Another example (more offensive) would be, “The big thick head on your one over there.”
26. Face like a smacked arse
You tend to head this one used a fair bit to describe someone with a bright red face, either from physical excursion or embarrassment.
For example, “He’s been playing wrestling in the living room with his brother for the past hour. The state of him. He has a face like a smacked arse”.
27. The bleedin’ state of ye
This is a very North Dublin insult and one that I used to hear used a lot when I was a kid.
It’s used in a variety of ways and tends to be used by people who can’t muster the creativity to come up with a proper insult.
“The state of ye” is normally used to describe someone with a scruffy physical appearance, but you can also hear it used when one person is trying to hit someone with a hurtful insult but can’t think of one.
28. If she was any longer she’d be late
This Irish insult is used to describe someone that’s very tall.
For example, “The height of your man over there – if he was any longer he’d be late”. “That’s Tommy Monaghan’s young fella. They’re all big huairs in that family”.
29. If he had brains he’d be dangerous
This is another one for describing someone that’s stupid/after doing something stupid.
“That tool Michael Carthy was caught up in Cronin’s yard last Monday night with young Tony Slattery. The pair of them sniffing glue and drinking gin.”
“Young Slattery’s like his aul lad. If either of them had brains they’d be dangerous”.
30. He wouldn’t give you the steam off of his piss
A slightly more vulgar Irish insult up next that’s used to describe someone that’s cheap/tight with their money.
For example, “I got a taxi home with Shane last Friday. It was 70 poxy Euro and he only told me when he was getting out that he had no money with him.” “He’s a miserable f*cker that lad – wouldn’t give you the steam off of his piss”.
31. Scarlet for your ma for having you
This is a Dublin insult that’s generally pronounced, “SCAR-LEEEEH FOR YER MAH FER HAVIN YEEEE”.
I haven’t heard this one used in a while, but it’s generally used on someone that’s done something embarrassing or stupid.
For example, “I heard you got sick all over Sheamus Morrisey’s front door last night, you mess. Scarlet for your ma for havin ye. You’d want to avoid his Mother for the next few months.”
32. He’s a Stingy bollocks
Good God there’s a lot of Irish phrases for describing someone that’s tight with cash. Right, this is another one.
For example, “That stingy bollocks tried to get a discount on the Toyota we have out back. Sure I’ve already knocked 2 grand off of the asking price”.
33. She’s minus craic
‘Minus craic’ and ‘dry shite’ are both fine ways to describe someone that’s being boring.
For example. “Will you stop being minus craic and come out for a few pints. You can’t sit in here all night like a dry shite”.
Irish curses and insults
Creamy pints from the 2018 markets
What Irish curse words and insulting Irish phrases have we missed?
Have something that you think we should add?
Pop a comment into the comments section below and I’ll take a look!
Keith O'Hara
Howaya! Thanks for visiting the Irish road trip! This site exists to inspire and guide you on an Irish adventure that’ll give birth to a lifetime of memories (sounds very arsey altogether, I know!) You'll find everything from things to do in Ireland to where to stay in Ireland (unique and unusual places) if you have a nosey around!
6 COMMENTS
Jarmo Hautakoski January 7, 2020 At 7:45 pm
Many thanks for this you tool.
Reply
Irish steve February 3, 2020 At 4:01 pm
You forgot
Dickweed
Ballbag
Best part of ye ran down yer ma”s leg
Soup drinker
Reply
Christopher April 9, 2020 At 5:25 am
‘Prick’ is an oft used term in my family. A ‘prick’ is someone you don’t like, or if someone calls you out on something. Especially if it’s someone you know… almost a term of endearment in our house.
You coming for pints?
No.
Prick.
Also, you left out ‘I willin’mehole’… (I won’t)
Will you go to the shops for groceries?
I willin’mehole
Reply
Maree December 5, 2020 At 9:12 pm
Where I’m from (Clare), ‘wagon’ has a double meaning similar to ‘hoor’ (never seen that spelled any other way, BTW)
1) An insult, as in the example you gave above: ‘She’s a little wagon, that one.’
2) An expression of admiration, much like ‘Shut uuup’: ‘You paid only only 5 euro for that dress? You wagon!’
Reply
Ewan April 3, 2021 At 1:35 am
Ya forgot one saying…… they look like a bulldog eating a wasp. Meaning a sour puss on there face
Reply
Annemarie Killeen September 8, 2021 At 5:56 pm
I don’t know how to spell it, but I love the word ‘galpín”, or in Ulster Scots “gulpin”. Also “loother” (again, phonetic spelling), a favourite of Pat Shortt’s character in Killinaskully
If'n u r easily offended, move on, please!
It is Well with My Soul