HeyRuaHow to say “grief” in Irish
- Irish:
- léan
- English:
- grief, affliction
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “layn” /lʲeːnˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- léin, an léin (e.g. cnoc an léin, the hill of sorrow)
What does “léan” mean?
“Léan” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- grief
- Deep sorrow or anguish, especially after a loss or misfortune.Also: sorrow, anguish, woe, distress.
“Léan” with the article
Here is léan after the article (an t-alt).
“Léan” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using léan, the Irish word for grief.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Grief in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for grief?
The Irish for grief is léan (pronounced “layn”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean affliction.
How do you pronounce léan in Irish?
Léan is said like “layn” (IPA /lʲeːnˠ/).
Does léan have a plural?
No plural form is given for léan in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does léan have more than one meaning?
Yes. Léan can mean grief or affliction, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What does 'mo léan' mean?
'Mo léan' is an exclamation meaning 'alas' or 'woe is me'; 'mo léan géar' is a stronger form.
How is 'léan' different from 'brón'?
'Brón' is the everyday word for sadness, while 'léan' is stronger and more literary, suggesting anguish or calamity.
