The shades

n.

Heard in Longford, Westmeath, Tipperary and Donegal

The police. Also known as the Guards.

In use

I was stopped by the shades last night." "Run the shades are coming." "Skirt lads the shades are coming." "Run! Here come the shades.

Posh English

I was stopped by the police last night. Run, the constabulary are approaching. Skirt around them lads, the constabulary are approaching. Run! Here come the constabulary.

Same phrase, other counties

  • Donegal
  • Westmeath (not in the dictionary)
  • Tipperary (not in the dictionary)