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sassenach

Sassenach is a Scottish Gaelic-derived word that Scots (and Irish) have used for centuries to refer to English people or, sometimes, Lowland Scots who've abandoned Highland culture.

ˈsæs.ə.næk109 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

Sassenach is a Scottish Gaelic-derived word that Scots (and Irish) have used for centuries to refer to English people or, sometimes, Lowland Scots who've abandoned Highland culture. It literally means 'Saxon' and carries centuries of cultural friction — though today it ranges from a genuine put-down to playful teasing. Widely popularized by the TV series Outlander, where it's used as an affectionate nickname, the word has gone from niche insult to something many non-Scots now recognize and even embrace.

The pub went quiet when the sassenach opened his mouth and his accent gave him away immediately.
Origin: From Scottish Gaelic 'Sasannach' and Irish 'Sasanach', both derived from 'Saxon', referring to the Anglo-Saxon settlers of lowland Britain. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(Scotland, pejorative) A Lowland Scot.

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#3·Apr 27, 2026

(Scotland, pejorative) An English person.

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