Plastic Paddy

Plastic Paddy is a sometimes pejorative term for members of the Irish diaspora who misappropriate stereotypical aspects of Irish customs and identity. Sometimes the adopted imagery is not only inaccurate, but seen as offensive by members of Irish cultures. The term has also been applied to those with no ancestral connection to Ireland who falsely claim Irish identity or nationality. A plastic Paddy may know little of actual Irish culture, but nevertheless assert an Irish identity. The term is pejoratively used to refer to people on the basis of their perceived lack of authenticity as Irish.