arr
Arr (intj) means an exclamation used to imitate the way pirates supposedly talk, often as a stand-in for "yes" or a growl of agreement. Example: “Arr, that be the captain's ship," the actor growled.”
How to use arr
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe classic cartoonish "pirate yes" — more a bit of costume-party fun than a real, everyday word.
Almost always used jokingly or in pirate-themed contexts, not in serious writing or speech.
Word forms
arred past tense, arrs singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"_____, that be the captain's ship," the actor growled.
Etymology
The word grew out of a West Country English dialect pronunciation of "yes," but it became famous worldwide as stereotypical "pirate speak" after actor Robert Newton used it heavily playing Long John Silver and Blackbeard in 1950s films.
Rhymes for arr
See all rhymes for arr →Frequently asked questions
What does “arr” mean?
The word “arr” means an exclamation used to imitate the way pirates supposedly talk, often as a stand-in for "yes" or a growl of agreement. In plain terms, the classic cartoonish "pirate yes" — more a bit of costume-party fun than a real, everyday word.
How do you pronounce “arr”?
“Arr” is pronounced ah (/ɑɹː/ in IPA).
How do you use “arr” in a sentence?
Here is “arr” used in a sentence: “"Arr, that be the captain's ship," the actor growled.”
What part of speech is “arr”?
“Arr” is an intj.
Where does the word “arr” come from?
The word “arr” dates back to around 1950.