What Do You Call an Irish Spider? The Origin and Humor Behind the “Paddy Long Legs” Joke

Around St. Patrick’s Day, people love to tell Irish-themed jokes and puns. One classic example asks “What do you call an Irish spider?” with the punchline being “Paddy long legs!” This lighthearted joke pokes fun at Irish culture while referencing a common creepy crawly. Let’s explore the meaning and humor behind this quirky riddle.

The Joke Itself

The full joke goes:

“What do you call an Irish spider? Paddy long legs!”

The humor lies in merging “daddy long legs,” a nickname for a spider with lengthy legs, and “Paddy,” a stereotypical Irish first name.

The silly wordplay highlights the whimsical nature of puns by connecting two seemingly unrelated concepts. The unexpected answer gives the joke an element of surprise and absurdity.

Origins and History

The roots of this joke are difficult to pinpoint precisely. However, the basic idea has clearly been around for decades.

References to an “Irish spider” named Paddy long legs appear in print as early as the 1960s. Often these first instances were not formal jokes, but simply clever punning references.

The quip likely gained wide circulation as a St. Patrick’s Day joke thanks to oral retellings, email forwards, and social media shares. It has all the hallmarks of classic Irish American humor.

Why It’s Considered Humorous

But why does this simple pun elicit laughs? There are a few reasons it tickles people’s funny bones:

• Play on words – Puns humorously manipulate language. Rhyming “Paddy” with “daddy” is unexpected.

• Stereotyping – “Paddy” comically plays into Irish cliches. However, some consider this offensive.

• Imagery – Picturing an actual Irish spider with long legs is bizarre and silly.

• Cultural connection – St. Patrick’s Day makes Irish references more resonant.

While fairly nonsensical, the joke captures the playful spirit of the holiday. The absurd mental image gives readers a laugh.

Variations on the Joke

Like any popular quip, many variations on the original “Paddy long legs” pun have emerged:

• What do you call an Irish spider with erectile dysfunction? A floppy O’Driscoll!

• What do you call an Irish spider who loves soda bread? Soda Paddy long legs.

• What do you call an Irish spider who weaves fishing nets? Paddy by the sea long legs.

• What do you call an Irish spider on a German football team? O’Legsander.

Part of the appeal is coming up with new spins on the basic joke template. The sillier, the better!

Is It Offensive?

Some take issue with the joke’s use of cultural stereotypes. “Paddy” can be seen as offensive when used mockingly. Making people the butt of a joke based solely on race or nationality is questionable humor.

However, most Irish folks recognize the pun as good natured. When told playfully, without mean undertones, the joke incites groans and chuckles rather than outrage. But it’s wise to consider your audience before telling.

While no comedic masterpiece, the “Paddy long legs” joke and its many variations have tickled funny bones for decades. These types of short punny riddles are staples of St. Patrick’s Day humor. Though nonsensical, the mental image of an Irish spider with gangly legs makes people giggle and groan. Just be conscious of potentially offensive stereotypes when telling it. With the right playful delivery, this quirky pun can give people a laugh whether they’re Irish or not!