irie
adj/ˈaɪɹi/
English Definition
Everything is good; feeling positive, peaceful, or alright.
Patois Definition
Don't worry yuhself — everything irie.
Etymology
- (Attested from the 20th century. Of uncertain and disputed origin. Theories include alteration from 19th century eerie (“hearty”); blend of I + free or merry in Iyaric; or perhaps from English all right.)
Cultural Context
A cornerstone Rastafari expression that crossed into mainstream reggae tourism and global pop culture from the 1970s roots era.
Examples
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"Don't worry yuhself — everything irie."
Everything's going great.
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"Everyting irie."
Reggae music has brought so many people from around the world to Jamaica, so that they can have a great time and change their perspective on life. […]
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"“Reggae mek so many people from all over the world can visit Jamaica, fi come hol' a irie vibes and hol' a different meditation. […]”"