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General

jackeen

What does jackeen mean?

What culchies (rural Irish) call Dubliners. Originally proper derogatory — the 'Jack' is said to come from the Union Jack, painting Dubs as too cosy with the British during the colonial era. Now mostly slung in the GAA banter sense rather than serious abuse.

"Typical jackeen, thinks the country ends at the M50."

Origin

Likely from 'Jack' (Union Jack) + diminutive '-een', mocking 19th-century Dubliners seen as pro-British.

Frequently asked questions

What does jackeen mean?
It's a mildly mocking term for a Dubliner.
How do you use jackeen in a sentence?
"Ah, don't mind him, he's just a jackeen who's never been west of the Shannon."
Is jackeen offensive?
It's mildly mocking rather than a serious insult, often used with a teasing or affectionate edge, especially by people from outside Dublin.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.