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Irish pennant

noun

, Nautical Slang: Sometimes Offensive.
  1. an unwhipped rope end.
  2. any strand or rope end left hanging untidily.


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Sensitive Note

Though no longer used as a deliberate slur, this term is sometimes perceived as insulting to or by the Irish. It originated in the Royal Navy in the 1800s, during the time of sailing ships.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of Irish pennant1

First recorded in 1880–85

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