The word "croppy" is a term used to describe Irish rebels who fought against British rule in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The spelling of the word is pronounced as /ˈkrɒpi/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The letter "c" is pronounced as /k/, followed by the letters "r" and "o" which are pronounced as /r/ and /ɒ/ respectively. Lastly, the letters "p" and "y" are pronounced as /p/ and /i/ respectively. The spelling of this word originates from the Irish word "crobhthaigh," meaning "crowned."
Croppy
Part of Speech: noun
Pronunciation: krop-ee
Definition:
1. (Historical) A member or supporter of the Society of United Irishmen, an Irish organization advocating for independence from British rule during the late 18th century. This term was specifically used during the period of the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The name "croppy" originated from the distinctive short-cropped haircuts of the rebellious Irish men.
2. (Informal) A derogatory term used by loyalists or unionists in Northern Ireland to refer to Irish nationalists or republicans, particularly during periods of political tension or conflict. Similar to the historical usage, it is meant to imply a lack of loyalty and acts as an insult towards those supporting Irish independence or a united Ireland. The term carries negative connotations and can be offensive when used in this context.
3. (Obsolete) A 19th-century hairstyle characterized by short, tightly curled hair. This term is no longer common in modern usage and has been replaced by other hairstyles and trends.
Synonyms: rebel, nationalist, republican, separatist, United Irishman.
Note: The term "croppy" can vary in meaning depending on the context in which it is used. It is essential to consider the historical and cultural context to fully understand the intended meaning and potential offensiveness.
The word "croppy" has its origins in Irish history. It is derived from the Irish word "craipín" or "crappie", which means "short-haired" or "cropped". The term was used in the 18th century to describe members of Irish nationalist organizations who favored a republican form of government and the abolition of British rule over Ireland.
During the Irish Rebellion of 1798, the United Irishmen, an organization seeking to unite Catholics and Protestants in Ireland against British control, had many followers from rural areas. These followers were often poorer and associated with the common tradition of wearing their hair cropped short, contrasting with the more fashionable wigs and longer-haired styles of the Anglo-Irish ruling class or British officials.
As a derogatory term, "croppy" was initially used by British loyalists to demean and mock these Irish rebels.