HeyRuaHow to say “brain” in Irish
- Irish:
- inchinn
- English:
- brain, brains
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “IN-ih-hin” /ˈinʲɪhɪnʲ/
- Genitive singular:
- inchinne, na hinchinne (e.g. cuid den inchinn, galar inchinne, part of the brain, brain disease)
What does “inchinn” mean?
“Inchinn” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- brain
- The organ inside the head that controls thought, feeling and the body.Also: brains, cerebrum.
1 other meaning: brains
- 2brains
- Intelligence or mental ability, as in having a good head.Also: intelligence, intellect.
“Inchinn” with the article
Here is inchinn after the article (an t-alt).
“Inchinn” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using inchinn, the Irish word for brain.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Brain in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for brain?
The Irish for brain is inchinn (pronounced “IN-ih-hin”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean brains.
How do you pronounce inchinn in Irish?
Inchinn is said like “IN-ih-hin” (IPA /ˈinʲɪhɪnʲ/).
Does inchinn have a plural?
No plural form is given for inchinn in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does inchinn have more than one meaning?
Yes. Inchinn can mean brain or brains, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does inchinn sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an inchinn (the brain), a hinchinn (her brain), a n-inchinn (their brain).
What is the difference between inchinn and intinn?
Inchinn is the physical brain, while intinn is the mind or intention, as in 'tá sé ar intinn agam' (I intend).
