Norn Iron Part IV

Craig's had a busy day. You know, putting fires out and all in KCK. The real ones. But he's found time for one more blog because he cares about you... and about you not getting your arse kicked in Northern Ireland (or vice versa).

So you are in a pub and the bartender says “what are ye havin or whats yours?” he is asking, what would you like to drink. You can ask for a glass (1/2 pint, which a woman would order “ye big pansie”) or a pint (a man’s drink).

If you are in someone’s home and they ask “would you like a wee drop in your hand?” they are asking if you would like a cup of tea.


If they ask, would you like a “bickie” this is slang for biscuit which in turn is a cookie.


Soda is a bread.


Veda is a dark brown bread.


Bap is a roll or a bun (like hamburger bun)


Chips are fries


Crisps are potato chips

So let’s talk about the most popular conversation subject in Norn Iron, the weather. If someone says its “lashing outside,” they are telling you it’s raining very hard. Or they might say “it’s a good day for the wellies.”


If they say it’s “Baltic,” that means it is very cold and you should maybe be wearing a coat.


If they tell you they are “sweating like a gladiators jock strap,” that means that it is very warm outside.

These are just a few Norn Iron sayings that will help you survive when travelling as you will be able to get something to drink, something to eat, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Craig