HeyRuaHow to say “baptism” in Irish
- Irish:
- baiste
- English:
- baptism, christening name
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “BASH-tyuh” /ˈbˠaʃtʲə/
- Plural:
- baistí (baptisms)
- Genitive singular:
- baiste, an bhaiste (e.g. lá an bhaiste, the day of the baptism)
- Genitive plural:
- baistí, na mbaistí (e.g. clár na mbaistí, the baptismal register)
What does “baiste” mean?
“Baiste” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- baptism
- The Christian ceremony in which a person, usually a baby, is christened with water and given a name.Also: christening, baptismal ceremony.
1 other meaning: christening name
- 2christening name
- In the phrase 'ainm baiste', the name given to a person at baptism, their first name.Also: Christian name, first name, baptismal name.
Other Irish words for baptism: baisteadh (baptism)
“Baiste” with the article
The plural of baptism in Irish is baistí. Here is baiste after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Baiste” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using baiste, the Irish word for baptism.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Baptism in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for baptism?
The Irish for baptism is baiste (pronounced “BASH-tyuh”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is baistí. Depending on context it can also mean christening name.
How do you pronounce baiste in Irish?
Baiste is said like “BASH-tyuh” (IPA /ˈbˠaʃtʲə/).
What is the plural of baptism in Irish?
The plural of baiste is baistí; with the article, na baistí means “the baptisms”. The genitive plural is baistí, as in clár na mbaistí (the baptismal register).
Does baiste have more than one meaning?
Yes. Baiste can mean baptism or christening name, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does baiste change to bhaiste or mbaiste?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) baiste becomes mo bhaiste (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár mbaiste (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'baiste' and 'baisteadh'?
'Baiste' is the noun for the baptism ceremony, while 'baisteadh' is the verbal noun of 'baist', the act of baptising or naming. You say 'ainm baiste' for a Christian name.
How do I say godfather and godmother?
Use 'athair baiste' for godfather and 'máthair bhaiste' for godmother; together they are 'cairde Críost' in some areas.
