Origin of the word Shoneen

[Cael]

Just wondering if anyone has any info on the origin of the word "Shoneen" and when it was first used to describe west brits? Cant find it in De Bhaldraithe or Ó Dónaill.

[Bray Head]

I think the word is Hiberno-English rather than Irish so I think you´d probably find it in TP Dolan´s ´Dictionary of Hiberno-English´

As far as I recall it technically means ´Small John´ the ´John´ referring to´John Bull´, with the use of the diminutive suggesting contempt.

[Cael]

I think the word is Hiberno-English rather than Irish so I think you´d probably find it in TP Dolan´s ´Dictionary of Hiberno-English´

As far as I recall it technically means ´Small John´ the ´John´ referring to´John Bull´, with the use of the diminutive suggesting contempt.

That makes sense. Go raibh míle maith agat, a chara.

[Macalla]

Ó Donaill gives "Seoinín" ; flunkey, toady.

[Cael]

Ó Donaill gives "Seoinín" ; flunkey, toady.

So he does, I wonder if he was trying to be politically correct by leaving out the obvious meaning of west brit?

[Cael]

Anyone know when it started to be used first? When did the term John Bull come into popular use?

[morryah]

Anyone know when it started to be used first? When did the term John Bull come into popular use?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bull

failte, a chara

[Cael]

Anyone know when it started to be used first? When did the term John Bull come into popular use?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bull

failte, a chara

Go raibh maith agat, a chara. Imagine calling Scotland "Peg," Im surprised they didnt revolt at that alone.

[32]

Isn't it ironic that a hundred odd years since the expression was first coined, we seem to have more Shoneens than ever in Ireland.

[32]

Isn't it ironic that a hundred odd years since the expression was first coined, we seem to have more Shoneens than ever in Ireland.

...and isn't it f****n scary that that happened to be my 666th post!!