HeyRuaHow to say “clay” in Irish
- Irish:
- créafóg
- English:
- clay, mortal remains
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KRAY-uh-fohg” /ˈkʲɾʲeːfˠoːɡ/
- Genitive singular:
- créafóige, na créafóige (e.g. boladh na créafóige, the smell of the clay)
What does “créafóg” mean?
“Créafóg” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- clay
- Soft sticky earth, or earth in general, especially the soil of a grave.Also: earth, soil, mould, grave earth.
1 other meaning: mortal remains
- 2mortal remains
- Used figuratively for the human body as dust or clay, as opposed to the soul.Also: dust, mortal clay.
Other Irish words for clay: cré (clay)
“Créafóg” with the article
Here is créafóg after the article (an t-alt).
“Créafóg” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using créafóg, the Irish word for clay.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Clay in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for clay?
The Irish for clay is créafóg (pronounced “KRAY-uh-fohg”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean mortal remains.
How do you pronounce créafóg in Irish?
Créafóg is said like “KRAY-uh-fohg” (IPA /ˈkʲɾʲeːfˠoːɡ/).
Does créafóg have a plural?
No plural form is given for créafóg in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does créafóg have more than one meaning?
Yes. Créafóg can mean clay or mortal remains, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does créafóg change to chréafóg or gcréafóg?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) créafóg becomes mo chréafóg (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcréafóg (eclipsis).
What is the difference between créafóg and cré?
Both mean clay or earth; cré is the general word, while créafóg often suggests loose earth, especially grave earth, as in 'faoin gcréafóg' (in the grave).
