UNEARTHING SLANG MEANING

The Luck Of The Irish: 10 Popular Sayings From The Emerald Isle

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According to the latest census, more than 31.5 million residents in the US claim to have Irish ancestry. Large states such as New York, California, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania have the largest percentage of Irish Americans. So, even if you’ve never been to Ireland, you’ve probably heard one of these expressions at least once. But, do you know exactly what they mean or where they come from? Don’t worry, we've got you covered. Here are 10 of the most popular Irish slang words and phrases and their meanings.

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The literal meaning of this phrase is "The best part of the morning to you" and is used as a greeting to wish somebody a good day. If that’s not sounding Irish enough, you should know that the traditional response for it is: "And the rest of the day to yourself".

This phrase was commonly used in all of the UK in the Victorian Era but fell out of use only to be revived later as a stereotypical Irish expression. Although it may have originated in Ireland, you probably won’t find a single Irish person saying it today. Maybe Hollywood had something to do with transforming it into a cliched Irish-ism?

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Every March 17th when we prepare to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day we dust off the famous phrase "Erin go bragh". But do you know exactly what it represents? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Erin go bragh today means "Ireland forever". However, the original Irish expression was Erin go brách (or go bráth), which translates as "Ireland until eternity" or "Ireland till doomsday."

This popular statement originated during the 18th-century Irish rebellion against the British and was used to convey loyalty and devotion to the land. Later, a group of Irish volunteers joined the Mexican side in the Mexican–American War waving about a green flag with a harp and the motto Erin Go Bragh. In the decades following, similar flags have been used at different times to express Irish nationalism. So now you know the real story behind this historic expression!

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Depending on the tone, this phrase can sound harsh or affectionate. Stop acting the maggot is an informal expression used to describe someone who is acting rowdy, lazy, or foolishly. If a friend or relative —especially the littlest ones— is not doing what they are supposed to and they are getting on your nerves, you can say "cop on" which also means stop "acting the maggot".

Like with many other slang terms or idioms, it is hard to trace the origin of this one. How such a disgusting creature as a maggot made its way into an expression used for decades is a mystery. However, it is a popular saying you’ll hear often in Ireland. You’ll also even find it printed on t-shirts and mugs!

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You’ll frequently find the word craic in songs and other pop culture references. The truth is, craic became a staple in Irish slang, now used to describe a good time or a fun experience. The term comes from the Old English word "cracian" which meant an abrupt sound or sharp noise.

With time, the word came to convey general noise or commotion, and by the 20th century, it had morphed into a more positive term meaning enjoyable experiences. It’s pronounced like "crack" and you’ll probably hear it in the famous phrase What's the craic?, that is, "What’s happening?" or "Is there anything going on?".

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This one is another St. Patrick’s classic and a pub staple. If you ever had a drink —or five— with Irish people, you most certainly have heard the expression Sláinte!

Commonly used when lifting a glass to toast, this interjection literally translates to "Good Health". The word derives from the Old Irish word slán, meaning "healthy" or "safe" and it's pronounced slawn-sha. In other words, it is the Irish version of the English Cheers!

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This expression is a colloquial way to indicate a long period of time, similar to saying "for ages" or "for a very long time". Although it is believed to have originated in British English in the early 20th century, it is a very popular phrase in Ireland. Commonly used when you are not sure about an exact amount of years, it likely comes from the idea that donkeys live a long time compared to other animals, for example, horses.

Another plausible explanation is that it is a pun on the long ears of donkeys. In this case, the origin may have more to do with rhyming slang, taking advantage of homophones, that is, the similar pronunciation between the two words.

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The term yoke originated in Northern Ireland and has deep roots in the local culture. It is commonly used to refer to anything, person, or object when you don’t want to specify its actual name or title. The word yoke is likely derived from the Old English word geoc, which refers to a wooden frame used to harness animals.

Either as a placeholder when used to refer to an object or as a funny way of invoking a memorable event, yoke is an incredibly versatile word that can be applied in different situations. Specifically, the expression You're some yoke! is used to address someone affectionately, meaning something similar to "You're pretty awesome".

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If you are ever in Ireland and in need of a restroom just ask anyone: Where's the jacks?According to the legend, the first-ever multi-cubicle toilet was invented in 1806 by an Irish man called Jack Power. He is said to have had 38 children, so no wonder he was in desperate need of some privacy.

Although he patented his system, people insisted on calling it "Jacks". The more angry he became with him being associated with going to the toilet, the more people continued to address it this way. By popular belief, Jack eventually changed his name and moved to the UK. Urban myth or not, for the Irish, a toilet will always be referred to as "the Jacks".

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Feeling tired and worn out? Has your car broken down? Then you are in need of the Irish slang word banjaxed. This term is widely used in Ireland to describe something —or someone— that is not working properly. It derives from the verb banjax, meaning "to damage or smash", although the exact origin of the word is not known.

Despite its defeatist connotation, it is an expression that is used colloquially and even humorously. So don't be afraid to drop a banjax here and there if you ever feel frustrated. It will take the weight off any problem!

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We didn’t want to end this article without saying goodbye —unlike the Irish! Well, to be honest, that’s a bit of a stretch. It’s not clear what is particularly Irish about the so-called Irish exit, meaning making a sneaky departure from a gathering without saying goodbye first. According to Dictionary.com, the expression can be traced back to Boston, Massachusetts, a city with a large Irish-American population.

Some suggest it has to do with Irish hospitality and the fact that their parties tend to go on for a long time, so it’s just easier to sneak out. Others associate it with the reserved personality of the Irish, who preferred not to draw attention to themselves. We’ll never know for sure, but if you ever find yourself feeling a bit tipsy it is okay to make an Irish exit to avoid revealing how drunk you really are!

GHOSTS AMONG US

Discover The 10 Most Spooky Haunted Places In The World!

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Fear lurks around every corner, even where you least expect it. While we have all squirmed in our seats watching movies about ghostly, possessed houses, nothing beats the thrill of exploring real-life haunted places. And our planet hosts sites that could send even the bravest souls running for cover!

Come with us to visit the 10 most haunted locations in the world, where many venture, but few dare to return. Are you ready? Join us if you are brave enough!

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The majestic Stanley Hotel opened its doors in Colorado in 1909. With its colonial style, large spaces and facilities, 140 rooms, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, the hotel's picturesque setting is ideal for supernatural tales.

Both guests and staff members have reported objects inexplicably moving, voices or screams echoing through the halls, and ephemeral apparitions that vanish into thin air.

In the 1970s, American famous writer Stephen King and his wife Tabitha spent a night at the hotel. This visit served as the inspiration for King's novel "The Shining." You can imagine the spooky experiences that may have fueled the author’s mind.

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Picture an island full of tall trees from which hundreds of old dolls hang, damaged by the passage of time and inclement weather.

Well, this place exists in real life. The Island of the Dead Dolls in Mexico (in Spanish, La Isla de las Muñecas) is one of the creepiest places on Earth. Legend has it that the ghost of a little girl roams the island, and numerous visitors have reported hearing the dolls speaking or giggling.

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Besides its pleasant atmosphere and diverse menu, this renowned New York restaurant holds a mysterious attraction: the presence of ghosts.

Or at least that's what the legends say. According to them, the spirits of the site's former owners, Aaron Burr and his daughter Theodosia, still haunt the place. Rumors abound of employees encountering various paranormal phenomena, from whistling noises to disembodied voices, flickering lights, and unexplained cold spots.

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Poveglia is an island near Venice, Italy. But this island stands in stark contrast to the romantic and picturesque image associated with Venice. Once inhabited, the island was abandoned in the 14th century. From the 18th century onwards, it served as a quarantine site for those afflicted with the plague. Later, in the 20th century, it became a mental health facility, which shut its doors in 1968. Since then, it has been empty.

Some people who were able to enter the island claim that all kinds of screams and paranormal occurrences take place at this site. Today, visits to Poveglia are forbidden, adding a touch of suspicion and intrigue to its already ominous history.

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The St. Augustine Lighthouse, erected at the end of the 19th century, holds a couple of tales that will give you chills.

Like many lighthouses, it is veiled in mystery. Among its well-known legends is the tragic tale of the keeper who fell from the tower while painting it. Locals and visitors claim to have witnessed his spectral figure, and some even speak of encountering his wife's ghost wandering within the lighthouse's confines.

Today, the site houses a museum that delves into its history since its inception. Are you brave enough to explore it?

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Built atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle's exact origins remain a mystery, with some experts tracing its construction to the 11th century. Over its extensive history, this fortress has accumulated countless ghost tales and myths.

With its beginnings as a royal residence and later mutation into a prison in the 17th century, this dark and gloomy castle's history has influenced its atmosphere.

Stories from guests say that the souls of those who perished within its walls, including former prisoners, linger within Edinburgh Castle, making their presence known to visitors.

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Abandoned sites often carry a weird aura, but few match the chilling reputation of Bhangarh Fort in India. Built in the 17th century, this huge complex served as both a royal residence and fortress, and it now stands as one of the most haunted places in the world.

According to local legends, Bhangarh Fort was cursed centuries ago by a powerful sorcerer, sealing its fate and prompting its abandonment. To this day, many people who visit it claim to feel, hear, and see paranormal events triggered by the ancient spell.

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Operating from 1829 to 1971, this former prison housed some of the world's most notorious criminals, including Al Capone. Left abandoned for over 20 years after its closure, the penitentiary's towering walls and dim interiors contribute to its creepy aura.

Today, the site serves as a museum, and during visits, tourists learn about the terrible stories that happened within its walls and the paranormal events they unleashed. It's said that the lingering spirits of past convicts may still roam the premises, scaring those who dare to enter the place.

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Himeji Castle is one of the most famous castles in the world and one of the best preserved in Japan, boasting a rich history dating back to its origins as a 14th-century fort. Over the centuries, its design and construction evolved into the magnificent structure you can see today. Situated on a hilltop, the imposing castle boasts grandeur and complexity with over 80 rooms and intricate defensive features.

Local folklore tells that inside the castle, a worker was unjustly accused and condemned to death. His restless spirit is said to linger, manifesting in mysterious sounds of clinking dishes and glasses.

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Originally built in the 18th century and further enhanced in the 19th century, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a fortress located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, which covers an area of about 16 acres.

Throughout its long history, this site has witnessed numerous conflicts and military engagements, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's past. But, in addition to its rich historical significance, the Halifax Citadel is renowned for its intriguing tales of ghostly sightings, purportedly of soldiers from bygone eras.

Are you brave enough to embark on a visit? You'd better go with your best armor.