HeyRuaHow to say “compass” in Irish
- Irish:
- compás
- English:
- compass, compasses, range
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KUM-pawss” /ˈkʊmˠpˠɑːsˠ/
- Plural:
- compáis (compasses)
- Genitive singular:
- compáis, an chompáis (e.g. snáthaid an chompáis, the compass needle)
- Genitive plural:
- compás, na gcompás (e.g. snáthaidí na gcompás, the needles of the compasses)
What does “compás” mean?
“Compás” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- compass
- An instrument with a magnetic needle that shows the direction of north.Also: magnetic compass, mariner's compass.
2 other meanings: compasses or range
- 2compasses
- A drawing instrument with two hinged legs used for drawing circles.Also: pair of compasses, drawing compass.
- 3range
- The extent, limit or circumference of something, as in the phrase 'i gcompás' (within the bounds of).Also: limit, circumference, bounds.
“Compás” with the article
The plural of compass in Irish is compáis. Here is compás after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Compás” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using compás, the Irish word for compass.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Compass in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for compass?
The Irish for compass is compás (pronounced “KUM-pawss”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is compáis. Depending on context it can also mean compasses or range.
How do you pronounce compás in Irish?
Compás is said like “KUM-pawss” (IPA /ˈkʊmˠpˠɑːsˠ/).
What is the plural of compass in Irish?
The plural of compás is compáis; with the article, na compáis means “the compasses”. The genitive plural is compás, as in snáthaidí na gcompás (the needles of the compasses).
Does compás have more than one meaning?
Yes. Compás can mean compass, compasses or range, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does compás change to chompás or gcompás?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) compás becomes mo chompás (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcompás (eclipsis).
What does 'as compás' mean?
'As compás' means out of order or off course, and can also mean excessive or exorbitant, for example 'praghas as compás'.
Is the same word used for the drawing instrument and the navigation compass?
Yes, 'compás' covers both, though for the drawing tool you will often see the plural 'compáis' or 'péire compás'.
