"homely"

[autofocus]

We just came back from a two week holiday in Ireland, and it's always fun to here the words and expressions used by other cultures. One that stuck out in my mind was the word "homely," and their meaning, or use of the word. Here in the US, if you told someone or a group of people that they were homely, it would be considered quite an insult as homely here means someone or something that is very much rather unattractive. (or downright butt ugly) In Ireland, apparently it takes on a totally different meaning...as best as I could determine it means someone who is very friendly and accommodating. So referring to someone in Ireland as being "homely" would be considered a positive comment.

[SusanH1970]

Every time I go over to your house I find you and Cathy to be quite homely.

[Jim Poor]

1 (of a person) unattractive in appearance.
2 Brit. (of a place or surroundings) simple but cozy and comfortable, as in one's own home : a modern hotel with a homely atmosphere.
• unsophisticated and unpretentious : homely pleasures.

[autofocus]

Originally Posted by SusanH1970

Every time I go over to your house I find you and Cathy to be quite homely.

That's "grand" Susan. While in Ireland, we stayed with Cathy's cousin in Roscommon. He is a singer songwriter and had some interesting stories to share with us. He had told us about an Irish singer who was doing a US tour, and in front of a group of thousands he proceeded to tell the US fans how homely they all were. You could only image the reaction of those in the audience to his comment!

[scootermcq]

hmmm. All these years I thought people were talking about my apperance.

Now, what does' "a face for radio" mean in Ireland?

[autofocus]

For those interested, this is Michael's (Banahan) band "Rig the Jig." He also has performed as "The Baileys" and also some solo albums. This song is a cover of a Radiohead song.

YouTube - Rig the Jig - High and Dry

[gturner]

Originally Posted by scootermcq

hmmm. All these years I thought people were talking about my apperance.

Now, what does' "a face for radio" mean in Ireland?

the same thing....

(I have one of those and been on radio in Ireland!!)

[candidrachel]

I thought homely meant cozy, quaint or comfortable. More of an opinion of someone's house or abode. My mothers house is very homely and you can feel right at home there. I wouldn't call a person that though. Seems a little strange to me but then maybe its just an Irish saying.

ps yes Jim Poor hit the nail on the head!

[Jim Poor]

I can see how the Brit usage could easily morph into "hospitable."

[SwissJon]

Originally Posted by scootermcq

hmmm. All these years I thought people were talking about my apperance.

Now, what does' "a face for radio" mean in Ireland?

Terry Wogan