HeyRuaHow to say “enemy” in Irish
- Irish:
- namhaid
- English:
- enemy, the enemy
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fifth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “nowj” /n̪ˠəudʲ/
- Plural:
- naimhde (enemies)
- Genitive singular:
- namhad, an namhad (e.g. arm an namhad, the army of the enemy)
- Genitive plural:
- naimhde, na naimhde (e.g. arm na naimhde, the enemies' army)
What does “namhaid” mean?
“Namhaid” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- enemy
- A person or group that is hostile to someone and wishes them harm.Also: foe, adversary, opponent.
1 other meaning: the enemy
- 2the enemy
- An opposing army or nation in war, often used collectively with the article.Also: enemy, enemy forces, hostile army.
“Namhaid” with the article
The plural of enemy in Irish is naimhde. Here is namhaid after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Namhaid” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using namhaid, the Irish word for enemy.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Enemy in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for enemy?
The Irish for enemy is namhaid (pronounced “nowj”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is naimhde. Depending on context it can also mean the enemy.
How do you pronounce namhaid in Irish?
Namhaid is said like “nowj” (IPA /n̪ˠəudʲ/).
What is the plural of enemy in Irish?
The plural of namhaid is naimhde; with the article, na naimhde means “the enemies”. The genitive plural is naimhde, as in arm na naimhde (the enemies' army).
Does namhaid have more than one meaning?
Yes. Namhaid can mean enemy or the enemy, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between namhaid and eascara?
Both mean enemy. Namhaid is the usual word, often for an enemy in war, while eascara (literally 'un-friend') is a personal enemy, the opposite of cara.
What does 'fuath na namhad' mean?
It is an idiom meaning intense hatred: 'Bhí fuath na namhad aige air' means he hated it passionately.
