HeyRuaHow to say “hell” in Irish
- Irish:
- ifreann
- English:
- hell, hell (torment)
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “IF-ran” /ˈɪfʲɾʲən̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- ifrinn, an ifrinn (e.g. pianta an ifrinn, the pains of hell)
What does “ifreann” mean?
“Ifreann” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- hell
- In Christian belief, the place of eternal punishment for the damned after death.Also: inferno, underworld, damnation.
1 other meaning: hell (torment)
- 2hell (torment)
- A very unpleasant or painful situation or experience, used figuratively.Also: hell, torment, misery, ordeal.
“Ifreann” with the article
Here is ifreann after the article (an t-alt).
“Ifreann” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using ifreann, the Irish word for hell.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Hell in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for hell?
The Irish for hell is ifreann (pronounced “IF-ran”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean hell (torment).
How do you pronounce ifreann in Irish?
Ifreann is said like “IF-ran” (IPA /ˈɪfʲɾʲən̪ˠ/).
Does ifreann have a plural?
No plural form is given for ifreann in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does ifreann have more than one meaning?
Yes. Ifreann can mean hell or hell (torment), depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does ifreann sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-ifreann (the hell), a hifreann (her hell), a n-ifreann (their hell).
What is the opposite of 'ifreann'?
Heaven is 'neamh' or 'na flaithis'; 'purgadóir' is purgatory.
How do I say 'go to hell' in Irish?
Say 'Imigh go hifreann!', with h- before the vowel after 'go'.
