When you hear 'spalpeen' are you hearing English or Gaelic?

'Spalpeen' is a word borrowed from Gaelic 'spailpín'. The word entered the English language some time around 1767.

spalpeen [noun] [1767]

Rascal
Meaning: rascal.

Etymology: Irish spailpin seasonal laborer; rascal.

Topics: Society:Culture.

Origin: From Gaelic to English.

note: Originates from the Irish word spailpín which means wandering landless laborer. This term referred to itinerant or seasonal farmworkers in Ireland particularly during the 17th to early 20th centuries. The word spailp itself translates to 'turn spell or bout' suggesting the temporary nature of their work.

See 'spalpeen' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Gaelic.

See more loan words from 1700s.