HeyRuaHow to say “cheek” in Irish
- Irish:
- leiceann
- English:
- cheek, side
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “LEK-un” /ˈlʲecən̪ˠ/
- Plural:
- leicne (cheeks)
- Genitive singular:
- leicinn, an leicinn (e.g. lasadh an leicinn, the flush of the cheek)
- Genitive plural:
- leiceann, na leiceann (e.g. luisne na leiceann, the glow of the cheeks)
What does “leiceann” mean?
“Leiceann” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- cheek
- The side of the face below the eye.Also: side of the face, jowl.
“Leiceann” with the article
The plural of cheek in Irish is leicne. Here is leiceann after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Leiceann” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using leiceann, the Irish word for cheek.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Cheek in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for cheek?
The Irish for cheek is leiceann (pronounced “LEK-un”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is leicne. Depending on context it can also mean side.
How do you pronounce leiceann in Irish?
Leiceann is said like “LEK-un” (IPA /ˈlʲecən̪ˠ/).
What is the plural of cheek in Irish?
The plural of leiceann is leicne; with the article, na leicne means “the cheeks”. The genitive plural is leiceann, as in luisne na leiceann (the glow of the cheeks).
Does leiceann have more than one meaning?
Yes. Leiceann can mean cheek or side, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between 'leiceann' and 'grua'?
Both mean cheek; 'leiceann' is the everyday word, while 'grua' is more literary and often used of the cheek's colour, as in 'grua dhearg'.
