HeyRuaHow to say “engraving” in Irish
- Irish:
- greanadh
- English:
- engraving, shapeliness
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- grean, to engrave (ag greanadh, engraving)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “GRAN-oo” /ˈɟɾʲanˠə/
- Genitive singular:
- greanta, an ghreanta (e.g. uirlis greanta, engraving tool)
What does “greanadh” mean?
“Greanadh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- engraving
- Verbal noun of the verb grean: the act of cutting designs or letters into a hard surface such as metal, wood or stone.Also: carving, incising, etching.
1 other meaning: shapeliness
- 2shapeliness
- A fine, well-formed shape or figure, especially of a person or thing that looks finely made.Also: shape, figure, form.
“Greanadh” as a verbal noun
After ag, greanadh means engraving: it is the verbal noun of the verb grean (to engrave). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Greanadh” with the article
Here is greanadh after the article (an t-alt).
“Greanadh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using greanadh, the Irish word for engraving.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Engraving in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for engraving?
The Irish for engraving is greanadh (pronounced “GRAN-oo”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean shapeliness.
How do you pronounce greanadh in Irish?
Greanadh is said like “GRAN-oo” (IPA /ˈɟɾʲanˠə/).
Does greanadh have a plural?
No plural form is given for greanadh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does greanadh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Greanadh can mean engraving or shapeliness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does greanadh change to ghreanadh or ngreanadh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) greanadh becomes mo ghreanadh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngreanadh (eclipsis).
Is 'greanadh' the same as 'eitseáil'?
Not quite: greanadh is engraving by cutting, while eitseáil is etching with acid.
What does 'greanta' mean as an adjective?
Greanta, the past participle, means engraved, and also shapely or finely made, as in 'cailín greanta'.
