HeyRuaHow to say “cap” in Irish
- Irish:
- caipín
- English:
- cap, lid, crest
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KAP-een” /ˈkapʲiːnʲ/
- Plural:
- caipíní (caps)
- Genitive singular:
- caipín, an chaipín (e.g. dath an chaipín, the colour of the cap)
- Genitive plural:
- caipíní, na gcaipíní (e.g. siopa caipíní, a cap shop)
What does “caipín” mean?
“Caipín” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- cap
- A soft head covering, often with a peak, worn on the head.Also: hat, peaked cap, beanie.
2 other meanings: lid or crest
“Caipín” with the article
The plural of cap in Irish is caipíní. Here is caipín after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Caipín” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using caipín, the Irish word for cap.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Cap in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for cap?
The Irish for cap is caipín (pronounced “KAP-een”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is caipíní. Depending on context it can also mean lid or crest.
How do you pronounce caipín in Irish?
Caipín is said like “KAP-een” (IPA /ˈkapʲiːnʲ/).
What is the plural of cap in Irish?
The plural of caipín is caipíní; with the article, na caipíní means “the caps”. The genitive plural is caipíní, as in siopa caipíní (a cap shop).
Does caipín have more than one meaning?
Yes. Caipín can mean cap, lid or crest, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does caipín change to chaipín or gcaipín?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) caipín becomes mo chaipín (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcaipín (eclipsis).
What is the difference between caipín and hata?
A caipín is a cap, usually soft and often peaked, while a hata is a hat with a crown and brim. In everyday speech caipín is also used for a lid, as in caipín buidéil.
Can caipín mean the top of a pen or bottle?
Yes, caipín is used for small screw or push-on tops, for example caipín an phinn, though claibín is also common for a lid.
