doone n also doonaneen, doonee. Epithet for member of a group of settlers originally from Kilkenny.
   1863 PEDLEY 295 Two great Irish factions had established themselves [c1815] in St John's [one of which] was composed of 'Doonees,' or Kilkenny boys. 1895 PROWSE 402 The Tipperary 'clear airs,' the Waterford 'whey bellies' and the Cork 'dadyeens' were arrayed against the 'yallow belly' faction—the 'Doones' or Kilkenny boys, and the Wexford 'yallow-bellies.' 1976 MURPHY 30 The 'Daydeens' from Cork [were always] ready to fight at the drop of a hat against the 'doonaneens' from Kilkenny and the 'Yellow Bellies' from Wexford.

Go Back