Slanguage: A Dictionary of Irish Slang and Colloquial English in Ireland

by Bernard Share (Author)

• New

  Paperback
  2008

  $17.87

  Drawing on a rich heritage of Irish, English, Ulster Scots, Shelta, Hindustani, Swahili and many other linguistic resources, Hiberno-English has retained both its inventiveness and its vigour in a country which now plays host to some 167 languages, suggesting that Ireland will continue to make new words for old in the spirit of its own highly distinctive idiom. From the reviews of previous editions 'This is worth its weight in gold-dust, for at last we have a proper, and often improper, dictionary of Irish slang.' - Hugh Leonard, Sunday Independent .'Joyce would have loved it.' - John Boland, The Times (London). 'The book can take its place on the shelf beside the great Eric Partridge himself and there is no greater tribute.' - Sean McMahon, Irish Independent . 'Slanguage is an exceptionally well researched work of reference.' - John Slevin, RTE Guide . 'Much of the book is a joy to read.' - Brian Griffin, International Journal of Lexicography . 'This is quite simply an outstandingly brilliant piece of Sherlock-Holmesing, characterised by both authenticity and wit.' - Aubrey Malone, Books Ireland .

• Used

  Paperback
  1997

  $3.25

  'Slanguage' is an exceptional book of reference. It is a guide to the unofficial language of the 32 counties of Ireland, the language of the streets and pubs, but also of much of Irish literature from Swift to Roddy Doyle. It is the dictionary that lists and explains the words and phrases that Irish people actually use. Each entry is explained in normal dictionary style and the origin of each word or phrase is identified where possible. Subtleties of colloquial usage are illustrated by wide-ranging examples from many recorded sources. Whether you are a decent skin or a crawthumper, a horse-protestant, a hard chaw or a strong farmer, this book is for you. 'Slanguage' is full of fun, information, devilment and crack. It is also a unique piece of scholarship that captures and celebrates the vigorous and inventive world of Irish popular speech.