HeyRuaHow to say “cradle” in Irish
- Irish:
- cliabhán
- English:
- cradle
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KLEE-uh-vawn” /ˈclʲiəwɑːnˠ/
- Plural:
- cliabháin (cradles)
- Genitive singular:
- cliabháin, an chliabháin (e.g. luascadh an chliabháin, rocking of the cradle)
- Genitive plural:
- cliabhán, na gcliabhán (e.g. luascadh na gcliabhán, the rocking of the cradles)
What does “cliabhán” mean?
- cradle
- A small bed for a baby, often one that can be rocked.Also: crib, cot, baby's bed.
“Cliabhán” with the article
The plural of cradle in Irish is cliabháin. Here is cliabhán after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Cliabhán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cliabhán, the Irish word for cradle.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Cradle in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for cradle?
The Irish for cradle is cliabhán (pronounced “KLEE-uh-vawn”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is cliabháin.
How do you pronounce cliabhán in Irish?
Cliabhán is said like “KLEE-uh-vawn” (IPA /ˈclʲiəwɑːnˠ/).
What is the plural of cradle in Irish?
The plural of cliabhán is cliabháin; with the article, na cliabháin means “the cradles”. The genitive plural is cliabhán, as in luascadh na gcliabhán (the rocking of the cradles).
Why does cliabhán change to chliabhán or gcliabhán?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cliabhán becomes mo chliabhán (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcliabhán (eclipsis).
Is 'cliabhán' related to 'cliabh'?
Yes, 'cliabhán' is a diminutive form linked to 'cliabh', a wicker basket or creel, since cradles were once woven like baskets.
