HeyRuaHow to say “birds” in Irish
- Irish:
- éanlaith
- English:
- birds, fowl
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “AYN-luh” /ˈeːnˠl̪ˠə/
- Genitive singular:
- éanlaithe, na héanlaithe (e.g. ceol na héanlaithe, the singing of the birds)
What does “éanlaith” mean?
“Éanlaith” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- birds
- Birds considered together as a group; a collective noun for birds.Also: bird life, birdlife, flock of birds.
1 other meaning: fowl
- 2fowl
- Domestic birds such as hens, ducks and geese kept on a farm.Also: poultry, domestic fowl.
“Éanlaith” with the article
Here is éanlaith after the article (an t-alt).
“Éanlaith” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using éanlaith, the Irish word for birds.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Birds in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for birds?
The Irish for birds is éanlaith (pronounced “AYN-luh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean fowl.
How do you pronounce éanlaith in Irish?
Éanlaith is said like “AYN-luh” (IPA /ˈeːnˠl̪ˠə/).
Does éanlaith have a plural?
No plural form is given for éanlaith in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does éanlaith have more than one meaning?
Yes. Éanlaith can mean birds or fowl, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does éanlaith sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an éanlaith (the birds), a héanlaith (her birds), a n-éanlaith (their birds).
What is the difference between 'éan' and 'éanlaith'?
'Éan' is a single bird, with the plural 'éin', while 'éanlaith' is a collective noun meaning birds as a group or fowl.
Is 'éanlaith' singular or plural in grammar?
It is grammatically a singular feminine noun, so you say 'an éanlaith' and adjectives are lenited, as in 'éanlaith chlóis'.
