irish

Irish refers to things relating to Ireland, including its people, language, and culture. It can describe someone from the island of Ireland, whether they are a citizen of the Republic of Ireland or a resident of Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Globally, people of Irish descent form large diaspora communities, especially in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

The Irish language, or Gaeilge, is a Goidelic language native to the island. It is one of the official languages of the Republic of Ireland, alongside English, and is taught in schools and used in public life in various contexts. In Northern Ireland, Gaelic is recognized as a minority language with educational and cultural support.

Irish culture encompasses traditional music, dance, literature, folklore, and sports such as Gaelic games (hurling and Gaelic football). The modern state emerged after a long history of change, culminating in the establishment of the Republic of Ireland in 1949; Northern Ireland remains part of the United Kingdom after partition in the early 1920s. The island’s history includes ancient Celtic roots, Viking and Norman influences, and substantial emigration during the 19th century.

Symbols associated with Ireland include the tricolor flag and the harp. The Republic uses the euro, while Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling. The term “Irish” is also used in international contexts to denote citizenship or cultural affiliation with Ireland.