HeyRuaHow to say “humour” in Irish
- Irish:
- greann
- English:
- humour, fun, affection
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “gran” /ɟɾʲan̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- grinn, an ghrinn (e.g. fear grinn, clown, comedian)
What does “greann” mean?
“Greann” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- humour
- The quality of being funny, or the ability to see and enjoy what is funny.Also: fun, comedy, wit.
2 other meanings: fun or affection
- 2fun
- Joking, jesting or merriment done for amusement rather than seriously.Also: joking, jest, mirth, amusement.
- 3affection
- Fondness or love for someone, as in having a liking for a person.Also: fondness, love, liking.
Other Irish words for humour: giúmar (mood)
“Greann” with the article
Here is greann after the article (an t-alt).
“Greann” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using greann, the Irish word for humour.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Humour in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for humour?
The Irish for humour is greann (pronounced “gran”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean fun or affection.
How do you pronounce greann in Irish?
Greann is said like “gran” (IPA /ɟɾʲan̪ˠ/).
Does greann have a plural?
No plural form is given for greann in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does greann have more than one meaning?
Yes. Greann can mean humour, fun or affection, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does greann change to ghreann or ngreann?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) greann becomes mo ghreann (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngreann (eclipsis).
How do I say 'sense of humour' in Irish?
The usual phrase is 'féith an ghrinn', for example 'Tá féith an ghrinn ann' (He has a sense of humour).
What is the difference between 'greann' and 'greannmhar'?
'Greann' is the noun meaning humour or fun, while 'greannmhar' is the adjective meaning funny, as in 'scéal greannmhar' (a funny story).
