Avast, me hearties! It be International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Aye, today be the one day o’ year me and me mates don’t sound out of the ordinary. E’eryone be talkin’ like me today.
The art o’ pirate language began to be officially recognized in 1995 when John Baur (Ol’ Chumbucket) and Mark Summers (Cap’n Slappy) created the holiday. These lads proclaimed September 19 to be the day to celebrate the golden age o’ piracy.
Originally an inside joke between the two mates, the holiday gained exposure when Ol’ Chumbucket and Cap’n Slappy sent a letter about the holiday to American syndicated humor columnist Dave Barry in 2002. Barry liked the idea and began promotin’ the holiday. And, mateys, boy did it take off. People around the globe have inserted ahoys, avasts, and arrrgs into their lives on the 19th of September.
So, me friend, are ye up for the challenge? Avast, here are some phrases to get ye started.
Ahoy! – Hello!
Avast! – Stop and give attention.
Aye! – Why yes
Arr – an exclamation
Blimey! – An exclamation of surprise
Cackle fruit – Hen’s eggs
Heave to – an interjection meaning to come to a halt
ho – used to express surprise or joy
Smartly– do something quickly
Happy National Talk Like a Pirate Day!