Holiness in Irish (Naofacht): Meaning & Pronunciation

Q: What is the Irish for holiness?

The Irish for holiness is naofacht (pronounced “NEE-fukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean sacredness.

Q: Does naofacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Naofacht can mean holiness or sacredness, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How to say “holiness” in Irish

Irish:: naofacht
English:: holiness, sacredness
Word type:: noun
Gender:: feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:: “NEE-fukht” /ˈn̪ˠiːfˠəxt̪ˠ/

Various forms

Genitive singular:: naofachta, na naofachta (e.g. cáil na naofachta, a reputation for holiness)

What does “naofacht” mean?

“Naofacht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

holiness: The quality of being holy or saintly, especially of a person living a devout life.Also: sanctity, saintliness, piety.

1 other meaning: sacredness

2sacredness: The sacred character of a place or thing that is set apart for God or worship.Also: sanctity, holiness.

“Naofacht” with the article

Here is naofacht after the article (an t-alt).

an naofacht

the holiness

No change after an

“Naofacht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using naofacht, the Irish word for holiness.

Bhí naofacht ag baint leis an seanmhanach sin.

There was a holiness about that old monk.

Labhair an sagart faoin naofacht sa tseanmóir.

The priest spoke about holiness in the sermon.

Bhí cáil na naofachta uirthi ar fud na tíre.

She was famous for her holiness throughout the country.

Mhothaigh mé naofacht na háite nuair a chuaigh mé isteach.

I felt the sacredness of the place when I went in.

Is beag duine a shroicheann an naofacht sin.

Few people reach that degree of holiness.

Chaith sé a shaol ag lorg naofachta.

He spent his life seeking holiness.

Tá naofacht ar leith ag baint leis an tobar beannaithe.

The holy well has a special sanctity.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

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Holiness in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for holiness?

The Irish for holiness is naofacht (pronounced “NEE-fukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean sacredness.

How do you pronounce naofacht in Irish?

Naofacht is said like “NEE-fukht” (IPA /ˈn̪ˠiːfˠəxt̪ˠ/).

Does naofacht have a plural?

No plural form is given for naofacht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does naofacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Naofacht can mean holiness or sacredness, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How is the Pope addressed in Irish?

He is called 'a Naofacht an Pápa', His Holiness the Pope, using naofacht as a title.

What is the difference between naofacht and beannacht?

Naofacht means holiness or sanctity as a quality, while beannacht means a blessing given or received.

Holiness in Irish (Naofacht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage