HeyRuaHow to say “childhood” in Irish
- Irish:
- leanbaíocht
- English:
- childhood, childishness, dotage
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, third declension
- Pronunciation:
- “LAN-ub-ee-ukht” /ˈlʲanˠəbˠiːəxt̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- leanbaíochta, na leanbaíochta (e.g. laethanta na leanbaíochta, the days of childhood)
What does “leanbaíocht” mean?
“Leanbaíocht” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- childhood
- The time of life when a person is a child; infancy.Also: infancy, early years.
2 other meanings: childishness or dotage
- 2childishness
- Behaving in a silly or immature way, like a child.Also: puerility, immaturity, acting childishly.
- 3dotage
- The weakened, childlike state of mind some people reach in old age.Also: second childhood, senility.
Other Irish words for childhood: óige (youth)
“Leanbaíocht” with the article
Here is leanbaíocht after the article (an t-alt).
“Leanbaíocht” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using leanbaíocht, the Irish word for childhood.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Childhood in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for childhood?
The Irish for childhood is leanbaíocht (pronounced “LAN-ub-ee-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean childishness or dotage.
How do you pronounce leanbaíocht in Irish?
Leanbaíocht is said like “LAN-ub-ee-ukht” (IPA /ˈlʲanˠəbˠiːəxt̪ˠ/).
Does leanbaíocht have a plural?
No plural form is given for leanbaíocht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does leanbaíocht have more than one meaning?
Yes. Leanbaíocht can mean childhood, childishness or dotage, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between leanbaíocht and óige?
Óige is the usual word for youth or childhood in general, while leanbaíocht stresses early childhood and can also mean childishness or dotage.
