General
culchie
What does culchie mean?
A person from the Irish countryside or a rural town, especially outside Dublin.
"He's a culchie from Mayo, sound as a pound."
Origin
Hiberno-English, possibly from 'agricultural' or from the County Mayo town Kiltimagh (Coillte Mach). Origin is disputed; it's used both as a jibe by city folk and proudly by rural Irish.
Frequently asked questions
What does culchie mean in Irish slang?
It means someone from rural Ireland, often used by Dubliners to tease country people, but also worn with pride.
Is culchie an insult?
It can be mildly teasing, but many rural Irish people reclaim it proudly. Tone decides whether it stings.
What's the opposite of a culchie?
A 'jackeen' — the rural term for a Dubliner, the two being friendly rivals.
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