Defence in Irish (Cúlchosaint): Meaning & Pronunciation

Q: What is the Irish for defence?

The Irish for defence is cúlchosaint (pronounced “KOOL-khos-int”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean rearguard defence.

Q: Does cúlchosaint have more than one meaning?

Yes. Cúlchosaint can mean defence or rearguard defence, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How to say “defence” in Irish

Irish:: cúlchosaint
English:: defence, rearguard defence
Word type:: noun
Gender:: feminine
Pronunciation:: “KOOL-khos-int” /ˈkuːlˌxɔsˠənʲtʲ/

Various forms

Genitive singular:: cúlchosanta, na cúlchosanta (e.g. lár na cúlchosanta, the centre of the defence)

What does “cúlchosaint” mean?

“Cúlchosaint” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

defence: The defensive part of a team in sports such as football or hurling, the backs who protect the goal.Also: back line, backs, rearguard.

1 other meaning: rearguard defence

2rearguard defence: Protection or defence from behind, such as backing or covering for someone or something.Also: back-up, cover, backing.

Other Irish words for defence: cosaint (defence)

“Cúlchosaint” with the article

Here is cúlchosaint after the article (an t-alt).

an chúlchosaint

the defence

Lenition: c becomes ch after an (feminine noun)

“Cúlchosaint” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using cúlchosaint, the Irish word for defence.

Bhí an chúlchosaint go hiontach inniu.

The defence was excellent today.

Imríonn sé sa chúlchosaint don chontae.

He plays in defence for the county.

Rinne an chúlchosaint botún mór sa dara leath.

The defence made a big mistake in the second half.

Tá laige i gcúlchosaint na foirne.

There is a weakness in the team's defence.

Bhí imreoirí na cúlchosanta tuirseach ag an deireadh.

The defenders were tired at the end.

Ní raibh cúlchosaint láidir acu i mbliana.

They didn't have a strong defence this year.

Is í mo chúlchosaint an chuid is láidre den fhoireann.

My defence is the strongest part of the team.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

caidreamhrelationship báisteachrain pointepoint straitéisstrategy bainisteoirmanager leababed

Defence in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for defence?

The Irish for defence is cúlchosaint (pronounced “KOOL-khos-int”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean rearguard defence.

How do you pronounce cúlchosaint in Irish?

Cúlchosaint is said like “KOOL-khos-int” (IPA /ˈkuːlˌxɔsˠənʲtʲ/).

Does cúlchosaint have a plural?

No plural form is given for cúlchosaint in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does cúlchosaint have more than one meaning?

Yes. Cúlchosaint can mean defence or rearguard defence, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does cúlchosaint change to chúlchosaint or gcúlchosaint?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cúlchosaint becomes mo chúlchosaint (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcúlchosaint (eclipsis).

How is 'cúlchosaint' different from 'cosaint'?

'Cosaint' is defence or protection in general, while 'cúlchosaint' refers especially to the back line or defenders of a team.

Defence in Irish (Cúlchosaint): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage