What Are Irish Twins?

Everest Saric

“Irish twins” are siblings born within a year of each other. Three siblings born within three years of each other are called “Irish triplets.” Today, these phrases are considered outdated and derogatory stereotypes of poor Irish Catholic families having lots of kids in close proximity.

The term is confusing, the siblings are not actually twins because they are not born during the same gestational period. Irish twins are simply siblings who are close in age. There are risks to having back-to-back pregnancies, and doctors actually recommend waiting for a minimum of six months after delivery before getting pregnant again, ideally 18 months.

The phrase “Irish twins” originated in the late 19th century as a belittling term associated with Irish immigration to the United States. This association that siblings in these large Irish Catholic families were close-in-age became a negative moniker. It was very common for Irish families to have children close in age due to following the Church’s strict rules regarding contraception. When people used the phrase, it was to stereotype the Irish and imply that they were uneducated, poor, and lacked self-control.

In the present, the term is no longer used as an insult but much rather as a way to classify siblings. For example, some families might be proud to use the term. However, you need to be cautious when using the term because it can offend Irish culture and people.