HeyRuaHow to say “grace” in Irish
- Irish:
- altú
- English:
- grace, thanksgiving
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “AL-too” /ˈal̪ˠt̪ˠuː/
- Genitive singular:
- altaithe, an altaithe (e.g. am an altaithe, the time for grace)
What does “altú” mean?
“Altú” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- grace
- A short prayer of thanks said before or after a meal.Also: grace before meals, mealtime prayer, blessing.
1 other meaning: thanksgiving
- 2thanksgiving
- The act of giving thanks, especially to God; the verbal noun of the verb altaigh.Also: giving thanks, thanks, benediction.
Other Irish words for grace: grásta (grace)
“Altú” with the article
Here is altú after the article (an t-alt).
“Altú” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using altú, the Irish word for grace.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Grace in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for grace?
The Irish for grace is altú (pronounced “AL-too”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean thanksgiving.
How do you pronounce altú in Irish?
Altú is said like “AL-too” (IPA /ˈal̪ˠt̪ˠuː/).
Does altú have a plural?
No plural form is given for altú in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does altú have more than one meaning?
Yes. Altú can mean grace or thanksgiving, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does altú sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-altú (the grace), a haltú (her grace), a n-altú (their grace).
How do I say 'say grace' in Irish?
Use 'an t-altú a rá', for example 'Abair an t-altú'. You may also hear 'altú a dhéanamh'.
What is the Irish for Thanksgiving?
The holiday is 'Lá an Altaithe', literally 'the day of thanksgiving'.
