Ah, Scotland – the country of breathtaking scenery, rich history, mouthwatering food that makes your taste buds dance, and... wait, what did that guy just say?

As you travel through Scotland on a HAGGiS trip, you’ll soon discover that we Scots like to speak using loads of slang words that you might’ve never even heard of! With this wee pocket guide to Scottish slang and phrases, you’ll be set to jump into the craic (that means fun!) with the locals and make sense of those quirky expressions you’re sure to encounter. So, ready to sound like a local? Let’s gie it laldy!

1. Aye, Naw

Words you’re sure to encounter wherever you go, “aye” (yes) and “naw” (no) will come in handy whether you’re ordering coffee or deciding if you should have another helping of haggis (and we all know the answer to that one – aye!).

2. Bonnie

A popular Scottish word you’ll often hear used to describe people or landscapes is “bonnie.” It means “pretty” or “beautiful,” so don’t shy away if someone calls you bonnie, it’s a compliment! Even Scotland itself is lovingly referred to as Bonnie Scotland!

3. Wee

In Scotland, everything is “wee” (even if it’s not)! “Wee” means small or little, and it’s widely used in everyday language. Whether it’s a wee dram of whisky or a wee walk, you’ll surely get familiar with the word “wee.”

4. Tattie

Ever heard of neeps and tatties? Tatties are potatoes, and we Scots absolutely love them! If neeps and tatties with a side of haggis isn’t your thing, you should try a tattie scone with your breakfast. This potato flatbread is often served with sausage and tucked into a breakfast roll.

5. Lassie and Lad

When chatting about someone in a friendly way, the words "lassie" or "lass" and "lad" or “laddie” are often used. "Lassie" or "lass" refers to a girl, and "lad" refers to a boy. So, if someone calls you a "bonnie lass" or a "bonnie lad," you'll know exactly what they mean!

6. Scran

"Ye after some scran?" A casual word that means food, you’ll definitely hear this one while strolling the streets looking for a bite to eat or when your tummy starts rumbling on tour. Scotland has some downright delicious and traditional scran!

7. Coo

If you’re visiting Scotland, you’ve probably heard of our most famous locals, the hairy coos! Hairy coos are Highland cows, and they’re truly iconic animals that represent Scotland. So, when you hear someone shout “coo!”, be sure to head in that direction if you’re hoping to spot these laid-back animals.

8. Cannae

Who needs to speak using full words? Not the Scots! “Cannae” is a classic example of this and simply means “can’t”. You’ll hear this word often in everyday conversations.

9. Braw

This is a positive one! “Braw” means either “lovely” or “good” and can be used to describe things like people, weather, or a place.

10. Blether

"Blether" means a "chat," and Scots absolutely love it! This word is widely used in everyday language and in various situations, so don’t be surprised if you’re invited for a wee blether at a local pub during your tour!

Now that you’ve picked up a few essential Scots words, you’re one step closer to fitting in like a true Highlander! When you join one of our tours of Scotland, don't hesitate to show-off with your new vocabulary to your driver guide or the friendly Hairy Coos, it’s a surefire way to win their hearts (and maybe a laugh or two)! If you're still looking for more in-depth vocabulary you could give the Dictionary of the Scots Language a try, too. Now off ye go, find a buddy to have a wee blether with!