If you’ve ever been to Ireland (or even if you haven’t), you’ve probably heard Irish people chatting away in a way that made you wonder, “Wait, what did they just say?” Irish slang is packed with colourful phrases, quirky terms, and a dash of cheeky humour. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Whether you’re planning to visit the Emerald Isle or simply want to impress your Irish friends, this guide will teach you how to speak like a true Irish local.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of Irish slang.

1. What’s the Craic?

Let’s kick things off with one of the most iconic Irish words: craic. If you’re new to Ireland, this word is everywhere. It basically means “fun” or “what’s going on?” but it’s so much more than just a word. It’s the heartbeat of Irish conversation. Want to know what’s happening? Ask “What’s the craic?”

• Example: “What’s the craic?” – What’s happening? What’s the vibe?

• Example: “The craic was savage last night!” – We had an amazing time!

It’s the best way to find out what’s going on, and trust me, if you don’t use craic in Ireland, you might just miss out on half the fun.

2. Grand – Ireland’s Way of Saying ‘It’s All Good’

In Ireland, everything’s grand. And no, it doesn’t mean something is majestic or royal; it’s just a casual way of saying “everything’s fine” or “it’s okay.” You’ll hear it a LOT. It’s like the Irish version of “I’m good.”

• Example: “How are you?” – “Ah, I’m grand, thanks.” – I’m doing well.

• Example: “How’s the weather?” – “Ah, it’s grand.” – It’s fine, nothing special.

Whether you’re feeling great or just okay, saying it’s grand is the Irish way of keeping things chill.

3. Sláinte – The Irish Toast

If you’re in Ireland, you’ll definitely hear sláinte (pronounced slawn-cha) when someone raises their glass. It’s the Irish way of saying “cheers” but with a little extra charm.

• Example: “Sláinte!” – Cheers! Here’s to good health!

Next time you're in a pub, raise your pint and give a big sláinte—you’ll fit right in.

4. Deadly – When Something’s Absolutely Brilliant

In Ireland, if something is deadly, it means it’s amazing. And when something’s amazing, we don’t shy away from letting you know. So if you hear an Irish person say "That’s deadly!", just know they mean it’s top-notch.

• Example: “That concert was deadly!” – The concert was fantastic.

• Example: “This pub is deadly!” – This pub is amazing!

Now you can stop saying “cool” and start calling everything deadly instead.

5. Eejit – The Lovable Fool

Okay, so if you hear someone being called an eejit (pronounced “ee-jit”), it’s not an insult—well, not really. It’s just a playful way of calling someone a bit of a fool or being silly. And trust me, it’s all in good fun.

• Example: “You’re such an eejit!” – You’re being a bit foolish.

• Example: “Stop acting the eejit!” – Stop acting silly!

It’s lighthearted, so don’t take it to heart—it’s just part of the Irish charm.

6. Jacks – Where to Go When Nature Calls

Alright, if you need to know where the loo is in Ireland, just ask for the jacks. It’s the most common slang for the toilet, and you’ll hear it everywhere, from pubs to houses.

• Example: “Where’s the jacks?” – Where’s the bathroom?

• Example: “I need to use the jacks!” – I need to use the toilet.

So, next time you’re out and about, just ask for the jacks, and you’ll fit right in.

7. Yoke – A Thingamajig

If you’re ever at a loss for words, just use yoke. It’s a catch-all term for anything—especially when you can’t remember the name of something.

• Example: “Pass me that yoke over there.” – Pass me that thing.

• Example: “What’s that yoke called?” – What’s that thing called?

It’s the perfect word for when you’re a bit forgetful, and trust me, you’ll be using it all the time.

8. Culchie – The Country Folk

In Ireland, a culchie is someone from the countryside, and they’re often the subject of friendly teasing by those who live in the city. It’s all in good fun, though!

• Example: “Look at you, with your wellies on, you culchie!” – You’re definitely from the country if you’re wearing rubber boots.

• Example: “Ah, sure, we’re all culchies at heart!” – We all have a little bit of the countryside in us.

Being called a culchie is a badge of honour in rural Ireland, so don’t be shy if someone calls you one.

9. Gaff – Your Place, My Place, Any Place

If an Irish person invites you to their gaff, don’t be confused. It’s just another word for their house or home. So, if you hear someone say “Come to my gaff!”—well, pack your bags (or, you know, just head over for a good time).

• Example: “We’re having a party at my gaff this weekend!” – We’re having a party at my place.

It’s the ultimate hangout invitation. Be sure to say yes!

10. Langer – A Bit of a Mess

In Ireland, if you’re being a langer, you’re probably being a bit of a fool, or maybe even a bit tipsy. It’s not an insult; it’s just a playful way to call someone out when they’re acting a bit silly.

• Example: “Stop acting like a langer!” – Stop being foolish!

• Example: “He was a right langer last night after a few pints!” – He was acting a bit silly after drinking.

It’s a term of endearment, really, so don’t take it too seriously.

11. Chancer – The Risk-Taker

If you’re a chancer, you’re someone who likes to push their luck—whether it’s bending the rules or just being a bit cheeky. It’s not necessarily a bad thing; it’s just part of the Irish way of doing things.

• Example: “You’re some chancer, aren’t you?” – You’re really pushing your luck, aren’t you?

If you’re ever called a chancer, you’re either being cheeky or just taking a gamble, but in true Irish style!

12. Grant – Nothing Special, But It’ll Do

If something is grant, it’s just alright. Not great, not terrible—just fine. You’ll hear it when things are okay, but not overly exciting.

• Example: “How was work today?” – “Ah, it was grant.” – It was okay, nothing special.

It’s a nice, low-key way of saying “it’s fine.” Nothing to write home about, but not bad either.

Final Thoughts: The Charm of Irish Slang

There you have it! Irish slang is one of the most fun (and funny) ways to talk. It’s not just about the words—it’s the delivery, the humour, and the sense of community that comes with it. So whether you're planning to visit Ireland or just want to impress your Irish mates, these slang terms will have you speaking like a local in no time.

And remember: if in doubt, just ask, “What’s the craic?”