HeyRuaHow to say “freedom” in Irish
- Irish:
- saoirse
- English:
- freedom, holiday
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “SEER-shuh” /ˈsˠiːɾˠʃə/
- Genitive singular:
- saoirse, na saoirse (e.g. Dealbh na Saoirse, the Statue of Liberty)
What does “saoirse” mean?
“Saoirse” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- freedom
- The state of being free, not controlled or imprisoned by anyone.Also: liberty, independence.
1 other meaning: holiday
- 2holiday
- Time off from work or school; in this sense the word is usually seen as 'saoire', which is sometimes confused with 'saoirse'.Also: leisure, time off.
“Saoirse” with the article
Here is saoirse after the article (an t-alt).
“Saoirse” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using saoirse, the Irish word for freedom.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Freedom in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for freedom?
The Irish for freedom is saoirse (pronounced “SEER-shuh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean holiday.
How do you pronounce saoirse in Irish?
Saoirse is said like “SEER-shuh” (IPA /ˈsˠiːɾˠʃə/).
Does saoirse have a plural?
No plural form is given for saoirse in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does saoirse have more than one meaning?
Yes. Saoirse can mean freedom or holiday, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does saoirse change to shaoirse?
After words like mo (my) and do (your) the first letter is lenited: mo shaoirse. After ár (our) it stays ár saoirse, because s does not take eclipsis.
What is the difference between saoirse and saoire?
Saoirse means 'freedom', while saoire means 'holiday', as in 'ar saoire' (on holiday).
What is the opposite of saoirse?
The opposite is daoirse, meaning 'bondage' or 'oppression'.
