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Domination in Irish (Forlámhas): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘forlámhas’ also means: usurpation

The Irish for domination is forlámhas, a masculine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “domination” in Irish

Irish:
forlámhas
English:
domination, usurpation
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, first declension
Pronunciation:
“FOR-lawv-uhs”  /ˈfɔɾˠl̪ˠaːwəsˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
forlámhais, an fhorlámhais (e.g. deireadh an fhorlámhais, the end of the domination)

What does “forlámhas” mean?

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

domination
Control or power held over others, often by force or without right.Also: dominance, ascendancy, supremacy.
1 other meaning: usurpation
2usurpation
The seizing or holding of power or authority that one has no right to.Also: despotism, tyranny.

“Forlámhas” with the article

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

an forlámhas
the domination
No change after an

“Forlámhas” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using forlámhas, the Irish word for domination.

Bhí forlámhas ag an Impireacht ar an tír.
The Empire had dominion over the country.
Throid siad in aghaidh an fhorlámhais iasachta.
They fought against foreign domination.
Níor ghlac an pobal leis an bhforlámhas sin.
The people did not accept that domination.
Tháinig deireadh le forlámhas na dtiarnaí talún.
The landlords' ascendancy came to an end.
Bhí siad faoi fhorlámhas an rí ar feadh blianta.
They were under the king's rule for years.
Is fuath liom forlámhas de chineál ar bith.
I hate domination of any kind.
Bhain sé forlámhas amach sa chomhlacht go tapa.
He gained control in the company quickly.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Domination in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for domination?

The Irish for domination is forlámhas (pronounced “FOR-lawv-uhs”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean usurpation.

How do you pronounce forlámhas in Irish?

Forlámhas is said like “FOR-lawv-uhs” (IPA /ˈfɔɾˠl̪ˠaːwəsˠ/).

Does forlámhas have a plural?

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

Does forlámhas have more than one meaning?

Yes. Forlámhas can mean domination or usurpation, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does forlámhas change to fhorlámhas or bhforlámhas?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) forlámhas becomes m'fhorlámhas (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bhforlámhas (eclipsis).

How is 'forlámhas' different from 'smacht'?

'Smacht' is general control or discipline, while 'forlámhas' suggests dominating or oppressive power, often unjustly taken, as in 'forlámhas Shasana'.

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