What Do You Call An Irish Spider? The Origins and Meanings Behind This Classic St. Patrick’s Day Joke

St. Patrick’s Day is a festive time to celebrate all things Irish What better way to get into the Irish spirit than by telling some classic Irish jokes? One of the most well-known Irish jokes asks “What do you call an Irish spider?” The traditional punchline is “Paddy Long Legs!” This lighthearted joke pokes fun at common Irish stereotypes. But where did this joke come from and what is the meaning behind it?

The History and Origins of the Joke

The “Irish spider” joke has been around for many years. It plays upon typical stereotypes about the Irish being fond of drinking and having distinctive accents and names.

The name “Paddy” in the punchline is a common Irish nickname for “Patrick.” It references the Irish patron saint, St Patrick. “Paddy” is typically used as a somewhat derogatory term for an Irishman, similar to “Mick.” So the play on words equating a spider to a clumsy Irishman named “Paddy” is meant to be humorous

The joke appears in published books dating back to the early 1900s. An early iteration was included in the 1910 book “Juggling Tricks and How to Do Them” by Edwy Searles Brooks. It reads:

“What do you call an Irish spider? Patty long legs.”

Over the years, the name changed from Patty to Paddy. But the structure of equating an Irishman with a spider has remained.

Breaking Down the Stereotypes Behind the Joke

When looking at this joke through a modern lens, it does play on Irish stereotypes that some find outdated or offensive. However, in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, it is generally taken as a lighthearted and silly attempt at humor. Here is a breakdown of the meaning behind the different parts of the joke:

“Irish” spider – Implies a connection to Ireland or Irish culture. References common practice of assigning Irish nationality to things on St. Patrick’s Day.

“Paddy” – Irish shorthand for “Patrick.” Has connotation of implying a working class Irishman as opposed to more formal “Patrick.”

“Long legs” – Draws upon idea of Irish people being lanky or gangly. May also reference tendency toward heavy drinking.

So the joke essentially pokes fun at the Irish by comparing them to a clumsy, long-legged spider with an Irish name. The thick Irish accent saying “Paddy Long Legs” is what gives it that comedic punch.

The Enduring Popularity of the Joke

While some of the connotations behind the joke are a bit outdated, it endures as a St. Patrick’s Day favorite due to its simplicity and innocent humor. The absurd imagery of imagining an actual Irish spider named Paddy Long Legs makes people laugh in the spirit of the holiday.

The joke has crossed over into pop culture and media throughout the decades. In 1971, an Australian children’s TV series called “Paddy the Pelican” aired an episode titled “Paddy Long Legs.” An Irish singer named John McDermott recorded a song called “Paddy Long Legs” in 2010. And references to an “Irish spider called Paddy Long Legs” have appeared in numerous books and articles over the years.

Part of the appeal is that the joke is family-friendly and accessible to all ages. Young kids love the silly phrase “Paddy Long Legs.” And adults get a kick out of the subtle Irish stereotypes and wordplay. It’s the type of harmless fun that St. Patrick’s Day is all about.

So when March 17th rolls around, don’t be afraid to let this lighthearted joke crawl out. Your friends and family are sure to crack a smile at the mention of that humorous Irish spider named Paddy Long Legs!

Tell It With an Irish Brogue for Added Laughs

Part of the joke’s appeal is the way it’s told. For best results, use your best Irish accent and say the punchline slowly, savoring each word:

“What do ye call an Oirish spider?”

(Dramatic pause)

“Paaaaddy Looooong Legs!”

Drawing out the Os and elongating the words pokes fun at the classic Irish brogue. Saying it quickly as “Paddy Long Legs” does not have quite the same effect. The exaggerated Irish accent makes the punchline even more comical.

Other Versions and Variations

The classic “Paddy Long Legs” version is the most well-known take on this joke. But people have riffed on it over the years by using different Irish names or attributes in the punchline.

Some other versions include:

• What do you call an Irish spider who drinks too much? O’Paddy Long Legs
• What do you call an Irish spider on the ceiling? Seamus Long Legs
• What do you call an Irish spider with freckles? Paddy O’Dotted Legs

So feel free to get creative and put your own spin by using other quintessentially Irish names or qualities! The basic framework allows for some fun variations.

The “What do you call an Irish spider?” joke is a lighthearted St. Patrick’s Day staple that endures thanks to its innocence and instantly recognizable punchline. It pokes gentle fun at Irish stereotypes through the absurd imagery of a clumsy long-legged spider named Paddy. Told in an exaggerated Irish accent for maximum effect, it’s guaranteed to get a chuckle out of both kids and adults alike. So don’t be afraid to let this funny Irish spider joke crawl out of your repertoire this March 17th!