Minecraft includes a fun pirate language option that changes all game text into pirate speak. This guide shows you how to get pirate language on Minecraft for both Java and Bedrock editions.
What is Pirate Language in Minecraft?
Pirate language (officially "Pirate Speak") is a language setting that translates all game text into pirate-themed vocabulary. For example, "Inventory" becomes "Booty" and zombies are called "Swabbies." Originally added as an April Fools' joke, it became so popular that Mojang kept it permanently.
How to Enable Pirate Language - Java Edition
Enabling pirate language on Java Edition takes just a few clicks:
- Open Minecraft Java Edition
- Click Options from the main menu
- Select Language... (globe icon)
- Scroll down or search for "Pirate Speak (Pirate)"
- Click on it to select
- Click Done
The change applies immediately. Your main menu will now show "Play by yerself" instead of "Singleplayer" and other pirate translations throughout the game.
How to Enable Pirate Language - Bedrock Edition
For Bedrock Edition (Windows 10/11, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, Mobile):
- Open Minecraft
- Go to Settings (gear icon)
- Select General
- Find the Language dropdown
- Scroll to "Pirate Speak"
- Select it and exit settings
The language change saves automatically and applies to all game text.
Best Pirate Translations
Here are some of the most entertaining pirate language translations:
Menu Items:
- Singleplayer → "Play by yerself"
- Multiplayer → "Crew up!"
- Options → "Settings fer landlubbers"
- Quit Game → "Abandon ship!"
Items:
- Diamond → "Shiny rock"
- Gold → "Doubloons"
- Sword → "Cutlass"
- Chest → "Treasure chest"
Mobs:
- Zombie → "Swabbie"
- Skeleton → "Bag o' bones"
- Villager → "Landlubber"
- Pillager → "Scallywag"
Messages:
- "You died" → "Ye be sleepin' with the fishes!"
- "Respawn" → "Live again!"
Using Pirate Language on Servers
Pirate language only affects your local game display. Other players on multiplayer servers will still see text in their chosen language. Your chat messages remain in normal text - only game interface elements change.
Switching Back to English
To return to regular English:
Java Edition:
- Click Options
- Select Language
- Choose "English (US)"
- Click Done
Bedrock Edition:
- Go to Settings
- Select General
- Change Language dropdown to English
- Exit settings
Fun Activities with Pirate Language
Try these pirate-themed activities:
- Build a pirate ship and dock
- Create treasure hunt maps
- Host a pirate-themed server event
- Play on September 19th (Talk Like a Pirate Day)
Conclusion
Now you know how to get pirate language on Minecraft! This fun language option adds personality to your game without affecting gameplay. Whether you're sailing the seven seas or mining for treasure, pirate speak makes everything more entertaining. Arrr!