Wan

n.

Heard in Waterford, Mayo, Wexford, Longford, Kildare, Dublin and Donegal

A phonetic representation of the number one, reflecting regional accent.

In use

Wan tew tree fowar, marching down the country lane la!

Posh English

One two three four, proceeding in formation down the rural lane.

Same phrase, other counties

  • TewA phonetic spelling of the number two, reflecting traditional local pronunciation.
  • Aul wanOne's mother, or an affectionate yet irreverent term for an older woman.
  • Auld wanOne's mother or an elderly woman.
  • Bowl wanMother.
  • Dirty owl wanA thoroughly damp, miserable and wet day.
  • Do you wan your go boyAn aggressive challenge meaning "would you like to fight?"