cannt
The Gaelic word for slang is cannt.
cannt is a noun used to refer to unconventional language or slang.
Meaning: unconventional language (noun)
Did you know?
- Historically, cannt functioned as a deliberate code to allow people to discuss private matters safely in front of strangers or enemies.
- The term can sometimes overlap with the idea of 'cant', a word used in English to describe the specialized language of particular social groups or thieves.
- While cannt covers unconventional speech, Gaelic uses the term blàs to describe a regional 'flavor' or 'taste' of language.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a new song on the radio.
- IslaHamish, dè tha iad ag ràs an seo?Hamish, what are they saying here?
- HamishTha iad a' cleachdadh cannt ùr.They are using new slang.
- IslaTha e glè dhiughail dhomh.It is very strange to me.
- HamishIs e cannt an t-samhradh a th' ann.It is the slang of the summer.
