What Language Do They Speak In The Shetland Islands?

Let’s dive into the unique language of Shetland, shall we? Hiyi, noo den, whit lik’ is a common greeting in Shetland, and you’ll likely hear variations of it. The dialect is a fascinating blend of influences, so let’s break down this friendly hello.

“Hiyi” is a shortened form of “How do you do?” It’s a casual way to greet someone, similar to “How are you?” in other parts of the world. “Noo den” translates to “Now then,” a friendly way to acknowledge someone’s presence. And finally, “Whit lik'” means “What like?” which is a playful inquiry about what’s going on or what’s new.

You’ll find that Shetland’s dialect, called Shetlandic, has a unique rhythm and sound, and it’s quite common to hear different pronunciations of these greetings depending on the speaker and region. Shetlandic has roots in Old Norse and Scottish Gaelic, and its vocabulary includes a fascinating mix of words from those languages, as well as English and Dutch. If you’re looking to truly connect with the local community, learning a few common phrases in Shetlandic is a great way to do it. So, the next time you find yourself in Shetland, try using “Hiyi, noo den, whit lik'” to start a conversation and you’ll be greeted with a warm Shetland welcome.

Shetland and Orkney became part of Scotland over 550 years ago, on February 20, 1472. Denmark, at the time, was focused on its economic interests in the east. King Christian I was eager to relinquish his islands in the west. At the same time, James III of Scotland was keen to acquire them. This historical event solidified the islands’ connection to Scotland, marking a turning point in their political and cultural landscape.

The transfer of sovereignty from Denmark to Scotland was not simply a matter of political expediency. It was driven by a confluence of factors, including economic considerations, strategic interests, and the desire to secure stability in the North Sea region. For Denmark, relinquishing the islands freed up resources and attention to focus on its core interests in the east, where it was actively engaged in trade and expansion. For Scotland, the acquisition of Orkney and Shetland provided access to valuable fishing grounds and strategic maritime routes, bolstering its naval power and economic prosperity.

This historical event had a lasting impact on the cultural and linguistic landscape of the islands. While Shetland and Orkney have their unique traditions and dialects, they are undeniably part of the Scottish cultural tapestry. The islands are often referred to as “the Northern Isles” and share a strong sense of Scottish identity, evident in their shared history, language, and cultural heritage. Over time, the islands have assimilated into the broader Scottish culture, but their unique characteristics and heritage continue to thrive, making them a fascinating and integral part of the Scottish landscape.

The native language of Shetland today is Scots, a northern form of English that comes from Lowland Scotland and Northumbria. Shetland was never part of the Gaelic-speaking Scotland, so unless someone moved to the islands from the Highlands and Islands recently, they wouldn’t speak Gaelic.

It’s important to understand that Shetland has a rich and unique linguistic history. While Gaelic was never widely spoken in Shetland, the islands have their own distinct dialect of Scots, known as Shetland Scots. This dialect is heavily influenced by Old Norse, reflecting the islands’ Viking heritage. Shetland Scots is still spoken by many people today, particularly in rural areas, and it’s considered an important part of the islands’ cultural identity.

Over the years, Shetland Scots has evolved alongside English, with both languages contributing to the unique linguistic landscape of the islands. While English is now the dominant language in Shetland, Shetland Scots remains a vibrant part of the islands’ cultural heritage and a testament to the islands’ rich and complex history.

Shetlanders speak Shetlandic, a unique dialect with a rich history. It’s a blend of Old Scots and Norse, showing how the islands were influenced by both Scotland and Scandinavia. You might even hear a hint of Norn, an extinct language spoken in Shetland until the 18th century.

Shetlandic is full of unique words and phrases, making it sound quite different from standard Scottish English. For example, “da” is used for “the,” and “guid” means “good.” But it’s not just the words, it’s the way they are pronounced that makes Shetlandic so special. The accent is quite strong, with a melodic rhythm and a distinct “burr” in the “r” sounds.

This distinct accent is a reminder of Shetland’s fascinating past. The Norse influence is clear in words like “fjørd” (fjord), “skål” (cheers), and “bú” (farm). And the connection to Old Scots is seen in words like “hauf” (half) and “lang” (long). Shetlandic is a living testament to the island’s unique heritage, a language that’s evolved over centuries and continues to be spoken today. It’s a vibrant part of Shetland culture, adding a distinctive flavor to the islands.

People from Shetland are Shetlanders. People from Orkney are Orcadian. Both these island groups are proud of their unique Norse heritage and have a strong sense of identity. They are not simply “Scottish” but have their own distinct culture and traditions.

The Norse influence in the islands is evident in many aspects of life. The language, the landscape, the food, and the traditions all bear the mark of the Vikings who settled there centuries ago. The Shetland dialect of Scots is heavily influenced by Old Norse. Norn, an archaic language spoken in the islands until the 18th century, was closely related to Old Norse.

Shetland and Orkney are both part of Scotland, but they have a distinct cultural identity. Shetlanders and Orcadians are proud of their heritage and their unique way of life.

Shetland is known for its stunning natural beauty. The clean air and wild landscape make it a haven for nature lovers. You can explore moorlands, lochs, and seacliffs, all teeming with diverse birdlife. In spring and fall, you might even spot rare migratory birds stopping for a break during their long journeys.

Shetland’s natural beauty is a huge draw for visitors. The archipelago’s rugged terrain and dramatic coastline offer breathtaking views. You can hike through rolling hills, explore ancient archaeological sites, or simply relax and soak in the stunning scenery. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. You can even spot puffins nesting on the cliffs during the summer months. With its unspoiled natural beauty, Shetland offers a unique and memorable experience for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

It’s true that living in Shetland can be more expensive than the UK average. The Shetland Islands Council estimates that the cost of living is between 20 and 65 percent higher. However, it’s important to consider what factors contribute to this higher cost of living and how these expenses might be balanced by other aspects of life in Shetland.

Transportation costs are a significant factor. The remote location of the islands means most goods have to be shipped in, adding to the price. Fuel costs are also typically higher in Shetland, impacting the price of transporting goods and driving personal vehicles.

Housing costs are another factor to consider. While the average house price in Shetland is lower than in some parts of the UK, rent and mortgage payments can still be a substantial expense. However, the beautiful natural surroundings and peaceful island life can make the higher cost of housing worthwhile for many residents.

Food and groceries can also be more expensive in Shetland due to transportation costs. However, local shops and markets offer a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce, which can be more affordable than imported goods.

Utilities like electricity and gas can also be more expensive in Shetland, due to the challenges of supplying energy to a remote location.

While the higher cost of living in Shetland may be a concern, it’s important to consider the unique benefits that come with life on these islands. The stunning scenery, strong sense of community, and opportunities for outdoor adventure can be a real draw for many people. Ultimately, whether living in Shetland is “cheap” is a personal decision that depends on your individual financial situation and priorities.

People in Shetland speak Shetland dialect, a unique regional dialect. It’s closely related to Scots and English, but its roots are firmly rooted in Shetland’s Scandinavian past.

The origins of Shetland dialect can be traced back to around 850 AD when Norse settlers arrived in Shetland. The Norse influence is clear in the language, with many words and phrases coming directly from Old Norse. The dialect has also been influenced by contact with Scots and English over the centuries.

Shetland dialect is a vibrant and unique language that is spoken by many people in Shetland. It is a valuable part of Shetland’s cultural heritage, and it’s a fascinating example of how language can change and evolve over time.

Some examples of the Norse influence in Shetland dialect include words like:

“bret” (meaning “bread”)
“hus” (meaning “house”)
“skúla” (meaning “school”)

Shetland dialect also has a number of unique grammatical features, such as:

The use of the “in” suffix to form the plural of nouns (e.g. “house” becomes “houses”, but “man” becomes “men in”).
The use of the “t” ending on past tense verbs (e.g. “I went” becomes “I went t”).

Shetland dialect is a living language, and it’s still spoken by many people in Shetland. It’s a vital part of the islands’ cultural heritage, and it’s a fascinating example of how language can change and evolve over time.

Shetlandic, or the Shetland dialect, is a unique version of Scots with a strong Norse influence. You could say it’s like Old Scots, which is related to Middle English, with a lingering flavor of Norn. Norn was a North Germanic language spoken in Shetland until the 18th century. Shetlandic is possibly the most distinctive version of Scots, reflecting the islands’ long and fascinating history.

Think of it this way: Imagine a delicious dish with a unique blend of flavors. Old Scots is the main ingredient, providing the base of the dish. But then, Norn adds a special, lingering touch, a “waageng” as the Shetlanders say, making the dish truly special.

Norn, the language of the Vikings who settled in Shetland centuries ago, left its mark on Shetlandic. Words like “fjar” (far), “bein” (bone), and “skóg” (shoe) are direct descendants of Norn. These words, along with unique grammatical structures, give Shetlandic its distinctive character. It’s like a living bridge connecting the past to the present, reminding us of the Vikings’ enduring legacy in Shetland.

The influence of Norn isn’t just about individual words. It’s also reflected in the way Shetlandic people use language. For instance, they might use the possessive pronoun “min” (my) instead of the Scots “ma”. They might also use the past tense “var” (was) instead of the Scots “wis.” These subtle differences, like sprinkles of Norn on a base of Scots, give Shetlandic its special flavor.

Shetland dialect wasn’t taught in schools, which had a big impact on its use by older generations. However, the dialect thrived outside of the classroom.

Shetlanders were exposed to standard English at home, thanks to the arrival of mass media. But this didn’t stop them from speaking the dialect with each other. In fact, the dialect was often used in informal settings, like family gatherings and community events.

Think about it – imagine having a conversation with your grandmother, who used the Shetland dialect all her life. Even though she might have watched television shows in standard English, she still spoke the dialect with you, passing it down to the next generation. The same could be said about friends and neighbors getting together for a chat, or sharing stories at a local pub. The dialect was alive and well in these social settings.

While the presence of mass media undeniably introduced standard English to Shetland homes, it didn’t completely silence the dialect. The dialect lived on in these informal settings, serving as a strong foundation for its survival. This shows that the dialect was deeply rooted in Shetland life, even amidst the influence of standard English. The dialect was more than just a language; it was a connection to heritage, a symbol of community, and a way of life that continued to thrive, despite its absence from the school curriculum.

John Graham wanted to preserve the Shetland dialect. He wrote down words and expressions he heard people using. This way, future generations could learn about the unique language of the Shetland Islands.

Graham’s book wasn’t intended to be a complete dictionary. However, it’s a treasure trove for anyone interested in the dialect. It provides a glimpse into the everyday speech of the islanders, capturing their unique way of speaking. The book is a valuable resource for understanding the history and culture of Shetland.

Imagine living on a remote archipelago, surrounded by a distinct culture and language. This is the world John Graham knew. He understood the importance of preserving this unique way of speaking. The Shetland dialect wasn’t just a collection of words; it was a living, breathing part of the community. It reflected their history, their traditions, and their everyday lives.

Graham’s work wasn’t just about documenting words. It was about capturing the essence of Shetland’s identity. He wanted to ensure that future generations could connect with their heritage, even as the world around them changed. His book serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing us to understand the rich tapestry of language and culture that makes Shetland so special.

‘Recognisable yet strange’: a guide to Shetlandic dialect

It’s a waageng (aftertaste) of Norn, an extinct North Germanic language spoken in Shetland until the 18th century. It is arguably the most distinctive variant of Scots, reflecting the islands’ British Council

What is Shetland dialect? | Shetland.org

Today, the language spoken by Shetlanders is a regional dialect of the English or Scots language but its roots are firmly bedded in Shetland’s Scandinavian Shetland.org

John J Graham’s Shetland Dictionary :: Shetland

Welcome to the online version of The Shetland Dictionary by John J. Graham (1921-2008). First published in 1979, The Shetland Dictionary went into its third edition in 1993 and was last revised in 2009. Shetland ForWirds

Modern Shetlandic Scots language and alphabet

Modern Shetlandic Scots (MSS) is a variety of Insular Scots with Norn (Norroena) influences spoken in Shetland. It is variously known as Shetlandic, “da dialect”, Shetland dialect, Shetland, Shetlan or Broad Omniglot

Shetland ForWirds – Promoting and Celebrating the Shetland Dialect

Shetland ForWirds promotes and celebrates Shetland dialect. This unique dialect, with both Nordic and Scottish roots, is a valued and essential element of Shetland’s Shetland ForWirds

Language in Shetland; the dialect, it’s usage and challenges

Blog about the Clearances in Shetland, as referred to in Rhoda Bulter’s poem. Shetland For Wirds, a group that promotes and preserves Shetland dialect. shetlandwithlaurie.com

Changes in Shetland dialect | Shetland.org

Without doubt, the Shetland dialect is one of the islands’ defining characteristics. In its essentials, it’s a form of Scots, but is noticeably influenced by Norn, the language brought by the Vikings Shetland.org

Shetland dialect | ICH Scotland Wiki

Some Shetland vowel sounds are common in Scandinavia, the most obvious being ö. There are differences in pronunciation throughout the isles, mainly with vowels. The ichscotland.org

Norn but not forgotten on Shetland – BBC News

The dialect of the Shetland Islands is one of the most distinctive spoken within the British isles, heavily accented and studded with words left over from the now BBC