HeyRuaHow to say “down” in Irish
- Irish:
- clúmhach
- English:
- down, fluff
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KLOO-wukh” /ˈkl̪ˠuːwəx/
- Genitive singular:
- clúmhaigh, an chlúmhaigh (e.g. boige an chlúmhaigh, the softness of the down)
What does “clúmhach” mean?
“Clúmhach” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- down
- Soft fine feathers or hair, such as the down on a young bird or on a person's cheek.Also: fluff, soft feathers, fine hair.
1 other meaning: fluff
- 2fluff
- Loose soft fibres or fuzz that come off cloth or gather in pockets and under furniture.Also: fuzz, lint, nap.
Other Irish words for down: clúmh (plumage)
“Clúmhach” with the article
Here is clúmhach after the article (an t-alt).
“Clúmhach” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using clúmhach, the Irish word for down.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Down in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for down?
The Irish for down is clúmhach (pronounced “KLOO-wukh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean fluff.
How do you pronounce clúmhach in Irish?
Clúmhach is said like “KLOO-wukh” (IPA /ˈkl̪ˠuːwəx/).
Does clúmhach have a plural?
No plural form is given for clúmhach in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does clúmhach have more than one meaning?
Yes. Clúmhach can mean down or fluff, depending on context; the first is the most common. Clúmhach also has its own entry as an adjective meaning downy.
Why does clúmhach change to chlúmhach or gclúmhach?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) clúmhach becomes mo chlúmhach (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gclúmhach (eclipsis).
How is clúmhach different from clúmh?
Clúmh is the usual word for down, feathers or fur, while clúmhach is a related noun often used for fluff or downy covering. In many contexts they overlap.
