To err is human, to arr is pirate.
Aye, today be international talk like a pirate day – yes that exists – so you officially have license to elongate your Rrrrrr’s and drink rum before 5pm.
It was started in 1995 by John Baur and Mark Summers, who felt the English language was insufficient when expressing their encouragement to one another during a game of racquetball.
And so, a phenomenon was born.
However, whilst plundering is probably a high priority today, it may not be entirely necessary.
If you sail on over to Krispy Kreme and speak the pirate tongue, you will get a free doughnut. Other establishments may just stare at you *ahem* plankly.
To quote a pirate who has trapped his wooden leg in a freezer: “Shiverrrrr me timbers, that’s a good offer!”
So in order to stop you looking like a fool or a ‘bilge rat’ (see below), here at South West Londoner we thought we’d help you out so you too can speak pirate.
“Ahoy” – Hello.
“Aye” – Yes, I agree with everything you just said.
“Aye, aye” – Yes sir, I’ll get right on that as soon as possible.
“Me beauty” – An attractive woman.
“Bilge rat” – An insult. A bilge is the lowest level of the ship and full of slimy, smelly water.
“Grog” – An alcoholic beverage, usually rum.
“Hornpipe” – A musical instrument often played on board for others to dance to. Can be used for innuendos and/or chat up lines.
“Lubber” – A land lover who avoids the sea.
“Smartly” – To do something quickly.
As a bonus, here are a few of the best jokes on the Sev’n Seas (Twitter):
Why do pirates take so long to learn the alphabet?
Because they spend too much time on the C.
How do pirates make their money?
By hook or by crook.
What grade did the pirate get in school?
High Seas.
What is a pirate’s favourite film?
Booty and the beast.
Why are pirates called pirates?
Because they arrr!
Do you have your own favourite pirate joke which would have the above walking the plank? Let us know by commenting below.
Image courtesy of Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Walt Disney Pictures via YouTube, with thanks
