HeyRuaHow to say “chalice” in Irish
- Irish:
- cailís
- English:
- chalice, calyx
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KAL-eesh” /ˈkalʲiːʃ/
- Genitive singular:
- cailíse, na cailíse (e.g. bun na cailíse, the base of the chalice)
What does “cailís” mean?
“Cailís” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- chalice
- A cup, especially the sacred cup used for wine at Mass.Also: cup, goblet, communion cup.
1 other meaning: calyx
- 2calyx
- The outer ring of small leaves (sepals) that surrounds a flower.Also: sepals.
“Cailís” with the article
Here is cailís after the article (an t-alt).
“Cailís” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cailís, the Irish word for chalice.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Chalice in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for chalice?
The Irish for chalice is cailís (pronounced “KAL-eesh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean calyx.
How do you pronounce cailís in Irish?
Cailís is said like “KAL-eesh” (IPA /ˈkalʲiːʃ/).
Does cailís have a plural?
No plural form is given for cailís in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does cailís have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cailís can mean chalice or calyx, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cailís change to chailís or gcailís?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cailís becomes mo chailís (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcailís (eclipsis).
What is the difference between cailís and corn?
Cailís is a chalice, usually the sacred cup used at Mass, while corn is a drinking horn or a trophy cup, as in Corn Sam Mhig Uidhir.
