HeyRuaHow to say “custom” in Irish
- Irish:
- gnáth
- English:
- custom, haunt
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “gnaw” /ɡn̪ˠɑː/
- Plural:
- gnátha (customs)
- Genitive singular:
- gnáith, an ghnáith (e.g. in aghaidh an ghnáith, against custom)
- Genitive plural:
- gnáth, na ngnáth (e.g. de réir na ngnáth, according to the customs)
What does “gnáth” mean?
“Gnáth” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- custom
- Something that is usually or habitually done; a usual practice or usage.Also: usage, habit, usual practice, norm.
1 other meaning: haunt
- 2haunt
- A place someone frequents or habitually goes to.Also: resort, frequented place.
Other Irish words for custom: nós (custom), traidisiún (tradition), cleachtas (practice), béas (habit)
“Gnáth” with the article
The plural of custom in Irish is gnátha. Here is gnáth after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Gnáth” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using gnáth, the Irish word for custom.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Custom in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for custom?
The Irish for custom is gnáth (pronounced “gnaw”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is gnátha. Depending on context it can also mean haunt.
How do you pronounce gnáth in Irish?
Gnáth is said like “gnaw” (IPA /ɡn̪ˠɑː/).
What is the plural of custom in Irish?
The plural of gnáth is gnátha; with the article, na gnátha means “the customs”. The genitive plural is gnáth, as in de réir na ngnáth (according to the customs).
Does gnáth have more than one meaning?
Yes. Gnáth can mean custom or haunt, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does gnáth change to ghnáth or ngnáth?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) gnáth becomes mo ghnáth (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngnáth (eclipsis).
How do I say 'usually' in Irish?
Use the phrase 'de ghnáth', as in 'Éirím go luath de ghnáth' (I usually get up early).
What is the difference between 'gnáth' and 'gnách'?
'Gnáth' is the noun (custom, the usual) and also a prefix 'gnáth-' meaning ordinary, while 'gnách' is the adjective 'usual', as in 'mar is gnách' (as usual).
