Definition

Noun

AKA “Paddy’s Gale.”

  • A flat calm.

Origin

Probably earlier than the 19th century.

Comments

One of those terms with an ironic definition. Personally, not being an expert in the history of the British Isles or the cultural/politics Ireland, I’ve no idea why calm seas would be attributed to the Irish.

References

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.

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