HeyRuaHow to say “gift” in Irish
- Irish:
- aisce
- English:
- gift, favour
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “ASH-kuh” /ˈaʃcə/
- Plural:
- aiscí (gifts)
- Genitive singular:
- aisce, na haisce (e.g. luach na haisce, the value of the gift)
- Genitive plural:
- aiscí, na n-aiscí (e.g. bronnadh na n-aiscí, the bestowing of the gifts)
What does “aisce” mean?
“Aisce” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- gift
- Something given freely without payment; mostly heard today in the phrases 'in aisce' and 'saor in aisce'.Also: free gift, gratuity, present.
1 other meaning: favour
- 2favour
- A kindness or favour done or requested for someone.Also: request, boon.
Other Irish words for gift: bronntanas (present), tabhartas (gift), féirín (present), preasanta (present)
“Aisce” with the article
The plural of gift in Irish is aiscí. Here is aisce after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Aisce” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using aisce, the Irish word for gift.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Gift in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for gift?
The Irish for gift is aisce (pronounced “ASH-kuh”). It’s a feminine noun and the plural is aiscí. Depending on context it can also mean favour.
How do you pronounce aisce in Irish?
Aisce is said like “ASH-kuh” (IPA /ˈaʃcə/).
What is the plural of gift in Irish?
The plural of aisce is aiscí; with the article, na haiscí means “the gifts”. The genitive plural is aiscí, as in bronnadh na n-aiscí (the bestowing of the gifts).
Does aisce have more than one meaning?
Yes. Aisce can mean gift or favour, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does aisce sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an aisce (the gift), a haisce (her gift), a n-aisce (their gift), na haiscí (the gifts).
Does 'in aisce' mean free or in vain?
Both: 'saor in aisce' means free of charge, while 'turas in aisce' means a wasted trip, so context decides.
Is 'aisce' used for a birthday present?
No, use 'bronntanas' for an everyday present; 'aisce' survives mainly in 'in aisce'.
