HeyRuaHow to say “alms” in Irish
- Irish:
- déirc
- English:
- alms, charity
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “DAYRK” /dʲeːɾʲc/
- Genitive singular:
- déirce, na déirce (e.g. ag iarraidh déirce, begging for alms)
What does “déirc” mean?
“Déirc” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- alms
- Money, food or other help given freely to poor people, especially to beggars.Also: charity, handout, almsgiving.
1 other meaning: charity
- 2charity
- The act or virtue of giving to those in need, often in a religious sense.Also: almsgiving, generosity.
“Déirc” with the article
Here is déirc after the article (an t-alt).
“Déirc” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using déirc, the Irish word for alms.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Alms in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for alms?
The Irish for alms is déirc (pronounced “DAYRK”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean charity.
How do you pronounce déirc in Irish?
Déirc is said like “DAYRK” (IPA /dʲeːɾʲc/).
Does déirc have a plural?
No plural form is given for déirc in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does déirc have more than one meaning?
Yes. Déirc can mean alms or charity, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does déirc change to dhéirc or ndéirc?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) déirc becomes mo dhéirc (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndéirc (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'déirc' and 'carthanacht'?
'Déirc' is alms, the actual gift given to the poor, while 'carthanacht' is charity as a virtue or a charitable organisation.
What does 'is mór an déirc é' mean?
It is an idiom meaning 'he is a pitiful sight' or 'it is a great pity about him'.
