How to Talk Like a Pirate

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Desperate to get ready for Talk Like a Pirate Day? No worries. We've pulled together the top six most useful (kind of) phrases and words that you should learn. Because you never know when you might need to bust out some pirate speak!

'How to... Talk like a pirate' and a pirate.
To \u2018Hang the jib\u2019 means\u2026 to pout or frown. E.g. \u201CArr, that octopus be really hanging the jib today\u201D.

So next time your ship-mate is feeling blue - or you run into a moody octopus - tell them a joke to stop them 'hanging the jib'.

To \u2018Parley\u2019 means\u2026 a discussion between two opposing sides during a dispute. E.g. \u201CYe be likin\u2019 pineapple on ye pizza yet I do not, let us parley and discuss this further.\u201D

Try calling a 'parley' when you and your crew really need to get over a disagreement peacefully and sail on.

To \u2018Run a rig\u2019 means\u2026 to play a trick. E.g. \u201CWhen the captain gets back from the loo, let\u2019s run a rig on him and hide in our hammocks!\u201D

'Running a rig' on a ship is a great way to keep spirits high, but maybe don't prank the captain or you may be heading for the plank!

To \u2018Scuttlebutt\u2019 means\u2026 to gossip. E.g.\u201D I\u2019ve been hearin\u2019 that parrot scuttlebuttin\u2019 all day\u201D.

Everyone loves a good 'scuttlebutt' now and then but remember, on a pirate ship the walls may have 'buccan-ears'.

\u2018Shiver me timbers\u2019 is\u2026 an expression of surprise or strong emotion. E.g. \u201CShiver me timbers, I can\u2019t believe what be happenin\u2019 on The Next Step!\u201D.

Fact: In heavy seas, ships would be lifted up and pounded down so hard as to "shiver" the timbers, Which would startle the sailors.

To \u2018Hornswoggle\u2019 means\u2026 to cheat. E.g. \u201CYou best not be plannin\u2019 on hornswogglin\u2019 at bingo later\u201D.

That's it then! Now you can 'hornswoggle' your way through a pirate conversation with these top phrases. Avast me hearty, and good luck out on the high seas!