HeyRuaHow to say “ashes” in Irish
- Irish:
- luaith
- English:
- ashes, dust
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, third declension
- Pronunciation:
- “loo-ih” /l̪ˠuəh/
- Genitive singular:
- luatha, na luatha (e.g. dath na luatha, the colour of the ashes)
What does “luaith” mean?
“Luaith” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- ashes
- The grey powdery remains left after something has been burned, especially in a fire or hearth.Also: ash, cinders, embers.
1 other meaning: dust
- 2dust
- Something reduced to fine powder or ruin, used figuratively as in 'burned to ashes'.Also: ruin, ashes.
Other Irish words for ashes: luaithreach (ashes)
“Luaith” with the article
Here is luaith after the article (an t-alt).
“Luaith” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using luaith, the Irish word for ashes.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Ashes in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for ashes?
The Irish for ashes is luaith (pronounced “loo-ih”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean dust.
How do you pronounce luaith in Irish?
Luaith is said like “loo-ih” (IPA /l̪ˠuəh/).
Does luaith have a plural?
No plural form is given for luaith in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does luaith have more than one meaning?
Yes. Luaith can mean ashes or dust, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between luaith and luaithreach?
Both mean ashes; luaithreach is very common and appears in Céadaoin an Luaithrigh (Ash Wednesday), while luaith is the shorter, somewhat more literary word.
Does luaith mean the ash tree?
No, the ash tree is fuinseog; luaith only means the ashes left by fire.
