HeyRuaHow to say “greed” in Irish
- Irish:
- cíocras
- English:
- greed, eagerness
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KEE-kruss” /ˈciːkɾˠəsˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- cíocrais, an chíocrais (e.g. lucht an chíocrais, greedy people)
What does “cíocras” mean?
“Cíocras” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- greed
- A strong, hungry desire, especially for food or for more of something.Also: hunger, ravenousness, voracity.
“Cíocras” with the article
Here is cíocras after the article (an t-alt).
“Cíocras” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cíocras, the Irish word for greed.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Greed in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for greed?
The Irish for greed is cíocras (pronounced “KEE-kruss”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean eagerness.
How do you pronounce cíocras in Irish?
Cíocras is said like “KEE-kruss” (IPA /ˈciːkɾˠəsˠ/).
Does cíocras have a plural?
No plural form is given for cíocras in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does cíocras have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cíocras can mean greed or eagerness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cíocras change to chíocras or gcíocras?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cíocras becomes mo chíocras (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcíocras (eclipsis).
How is 'cíocras' different from 'saint'?
'Saint' is greed or avarice, usually for wealth, while 'cíocras' is a hungry eagerness or craving, often for food, and can be positive: 'cíocras foghlama' means a hunger for learning.
How do I say someone is eager for something?
Use 'ar' with the person: 'Tá cíocras air chun oibre' means he is eager for work.
