HeyRuaHow to say “hair” in Irish
- Irish:
- ribe
- English:
- hair, bristle, blade
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “RIB-eh” /ˈɾˠɪbʲə/
- Plural:
- ribí (hairs)
- Genitive singular:
- ribe, an ribe (e.g. fad an ribe, the length of the hair)
- Genitive plural:
- ribí, na ribí (e.g. fad na ribí, the length of the hairs)
What does “ribe” mean?
“Ribe” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- hair
- A single strand of hair, from the head or body.Also: single hair, strand of hair, whisker, eyelash.
2 other meanings: bristle or blade
“Ribe” with the article
The plural of hair in Irish is ribí. Here is ribe after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Ribe” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using ribe, the Irish word for hair.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Hair in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for hair?
The Irish for hair is ribe (pronounced “RIB-eh”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is ribí. Depending on context it can also mean bristle or blade.
How do you pronounce ribe in Irish?
Ribe is said like “RIB-eh” (IPA /ˈɾˠɪbʲə/).
What is the plural of hair in Irish?
The plural of ribe is ribí; with the article, na ribí means “the hairs”. The genitive plural is ribí, as in fad na ribí (the length of the hairs).
Does ribe have more than one meaning?
Yes. Ribe can mean hair, bristle or blade, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between 'ribe' and 'gruaig'?
'Gruaig' is hair as a mass on the head, while 'ribe' is one single hair, often said as 'ribe gruaige'.
