HeyRuaHow to say “handkerchief” in Irish
- Irish:
- naipcín
- English:
- handkerchief, napkin, kerchief
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “NAP-keen” /ˈnapʲcɪːnʲ/
- Plural:
- naipcíní (handkerchiefs)
- Genitive singular:
- naipcín, an naipcín (e.g. cúinne an naipcín, the corner of the handkerchief)
- Genitive plural:
- naipcíní, na naipcíní (e.g. cúinní na naipcíní, the corners of the handkerchiefs)
What does “naipcín” mean?
“Naipcín” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- handkerchief
- A small square of cloth used for wiping the nose or face.Also: hanky, hankie.
2 other meanings: napkin or kerchief
- 2napkin
- A small piece of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the mouth and hands.Also: serviette, table napkin.
- 3kerchief
- A square of cloth worn around the neck or on the head.Also: neckerchief, headscarf.
Other Irish words for handkerchief: ciarsúr (handkerchief)
“Naipcín” with the article
The plural of handkerchief in Irish is naipcíní. Here is naipcín after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Naipcín” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using naipcín, the Irish word for handkerchief.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Handkerchief in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for handkerchief?
The Irish for handkerchief is naipcín (pronounced “NAP-keen”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is naipcíní. Depending on context it can also mean napkin or kerchief.
How do you pronounce naipcín in Irish?
Naipcín is said like “NAP-keen” (IPA /ˈnapʲcɪːnʲ/).
What is the plural of handkerchief in Irish?
The plural of naipcín is naipcíní; with the article, na naipcíní means “the handkerchiefs”. The genitive plural is naipcíní, as in cúinní na naipcíní (the corners of the handkerchiefs).
Does naipcín have more than one meaning?
Yes. Naipcín can mean handkerchief, napkin or kerchief, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between naipcín and ciarsúr?
Both can mean handkerchief; ciarsúr is the usual word for a nose handkerchief in many areas, while naipcín also covers a table napkin and a kerchief.
