craic.
Enjoyable company, conversation, fun, or news. “What’s the craic?” can mean “what’s happening?” or “how are things?”
What does craic mean?
Craic is a flexible social word in Irish English. Good craic can mean a lively, enjoyable time or a person who is fun company. “What is the craic?” often asks what is going on, what the news is, or how things are with you.
It is pronounced like crack, but its social meaning should not be confused with drugs or a physical crack. There is no single translation that fits every sentence. “The craic was good” describes the atmosphere or fun; “any craic?” may simply ask for news. The meaning comes from the whole exchange, not an exotic hidden code.
See how it lands.
Original examples written for this entry, not quotations from the sources.
We stayed for another hour because the craic was good.
“What is the craic?” “Not much, just heading into town.”
The right word.
The right moment.
Use it in a natural Irish-English social context, or explain the sense when your audience may not know it. Answer a greeting normally rather than literally.
Avoid treating it as a reference to drugs or claiming every Irish person uses it in exactly the same way.
Not quite the same as…
banter
Banter is playful back-and-forth talk. Craic can include that, but also means broader fun, company, or news.
Across the Atlantic
A characteristic social expression with several context-dependent uses. Related usage also occurs in Scotland and parts of northern England.
A little backstory.
The spelling reflects Irish craic and a history connected with English and Scots crack meaning conversation or fun. Its history is more complex than a claim that it is an ancient unchanged English word.
Supported by Wiktionary contributors
Still wondering?
How do you pronounce craic?
Like the English word crack. The spelling does not signal a different English syllable.
What should I say to “what’s the craic?”
A normal update or greeting response is fine: “Not much, how are you?” or a brief account of what is happening.
Sources & checks
Meaning and factual notes are informed by the references below. Examples and usage advice are original editorial writing. A source documents use; it does not measure current popularity.
- craic — English entry ↗Wiktionary contributors · checked 19 Oct 2026Supports: meaning; usage