HeyRuaHow to say “humming” in Irish
- Irish:
- crónán
- English:
- humming, drone
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KROH-nawn” /ˈkɾˠoːn̪ˠaːn̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- crónáin, an chrónáin (e.g. fuaim an chrónáin, the sound of the humming)
What does “crónán” mean?
“Crónán” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- humming
- A low, continuous murmuring sound, such as a person humming a tune or a cat purring.Also: hum, croon, purr, murmur.
1 other meaning: drone
- 2drone
- A steady low buzzing or droning sound, as of bees, an engine or bagpipes.Also: buzz, droning, buzzing.
“Crónán” with the article
Here is crónán after the article (an t-alt).
“Crónán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using crónán, the Irish word for humming.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Humming in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for humming?
The Irish for humming is crónán (pronounced “KROH-nawn”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean drone.
How do you pronounce crónán in Irish?
Crónán is said like “KROH-nawn” (IPA /ˈkɾˠoːn̪ˠaːn̪ˠ/).
Does crónán have a plural?
No plural form is given for crónán in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does crónán have more than one meaning?
Yes. Crónán can mean humming or drone, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does crónán change to chrónán or gcrónán?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) crónán becomes mo chrónán (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcrónán (eclipsis).
How do I say someone is humming a tune?
Use 'ag crónán', for example 'Bhí sé ag crónán ceoil', he was humming a tune. The same phrase is used of a cat purring: 'tá an cat ag crónán'.
Is 'crónán' different from 'dordán'?
Both mean a low droning sound; 'dordán' is especially used for buzzing insects or a deep hum, while 'crónán' is the usual word for humming or purring.
