Brogue

A brogue is a marked or distinctive accent in one's speech, often associated with a particular region or social group. It's characterized by specific pronunciations, intonations, and vocabulary choices that differ from a standard or neutral form of the language. A brogue can immediately identify a speaker's origin and can, depending on the listener's perspective, lend a sense of charm, sophistication, or even informality to their communication. The term most commonly refers to accents found in parts of Ireland and Scotland but can be used more broadly.

Brogue meaning with examples

• Despite living in London for years, the elderly gentleman retained a strong Irish brogue. His lilting cadence, the softened 'th' sounds, and frequent use of 'begorrah' marked him as undeniably from the Emerald Isle, often leading to warm interactions and fond recollections.
• The actor adopted a thick, exaggerated Scottish brogue for his stage performance, which captivated the audience. His rolled 'r's' and distinct vowel sounds transported the viewers to the Highlands, creating a palpable sense of atmosphere and drawing the crowd to his persona.
• Listening to the podcast, the American found the Australian brogue, with its flat vowels and rising intonation, quite charming. Though initially unfamiliar, it didn't take long for the host's speech to become relaxing and easily understandable, which made the subject matter easier to consume.
• Her attempt to mimic the complex, rural Yorkshire brogue, when reciting the poem at the village hall, resulted in widespread mirth. Her exaggerated vowel sounds and incorrect pronunciations inadvertently created a humorous tone, proving the difficulty of perfectly recreating regional accents.