HeyRuaHow to say “calf” in Irish
- Irish:
- lao
- English:
- calf, darling
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “lay” /l̪ˠeː/
- Plural:
- laonna (calves)
- Genitive singular:
- lao, an lao (e.g. cloigeann an lao, the calf's head)
- Genitive plural:
- laonna, na laonna (e.g. praghas na laonna, the price of the calves)
What does “lao” mean?
“Lao” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- calf
- A young cow or bull, especially one in its first year.Also: young cow, young bull, bullock calf.
“Lao” with the article
The plural of calf in Irish is laonna. Here is lao after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Lao” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using lao, the Irish word for calf.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Calf in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for calf?
The Irish for calf is lao (pronounced “lay”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is laonna. Depending on context it can also mean darling.
How do you pronounce lao in Irish?
Lao is said like “lay” (IPA /l̪ˠeː/).
What is the plural of calf in Irish?
The plural of lao is laonna; with the article, na laonna means “the calves”. The genitive plural is laonna, as in praghas na laonna (the price of the calves).
Does lao have more than one meaning?
Yes. Lao can mean calf or darling, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why do people say 'a lao' to a child?
'A lao' (literally 'O calf') is an affectionate address meaning 'my dear' or 'darling', often used to children, as in 'Tar anseo, a lao'.
