What is a Geordie accent?
A Geordie accent is the accent and dialect of people from Newcastle upon Tyne and the surrounding Tyneside area in northeast England. People from Newcastle are also called Geordies.
The origin of the word Geordie is debated. One theory says it comes from the name George, possibly linked to support for King George during the Jacobite rebellions, or to miners who used lamps designed by George Stephenson.
The Geordie accent has roots in Old English and retains some features from the Anglo-Saxon language of Northumbria.
Words and sounds
Geordie words include howay, meaning come on, canny, meaning nice or good, and bairn, meaning child. Hinny is a term of affection.
The accent is often described as friendly and warm. Surveys have found that people consider it one of the most trustworthy British accents.
Television shows such as Byker Grove, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and Geordie Shore have made the accent well known. Celebrities such as Ant and Dec and Cheryl have Geordie accents.
The accent is distinct from neighboring Sunderland accents, known as Mackem, and the two cities have a friendly rivalry.