HeyRuaHow to say “hunger” in Irish
- Irish:
- ocras
- English:
- hunger, want, craving
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “UK-russ” /ˈokɾˠəsˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- ocrais, an ocrais (e.g. pianta ocrais, pangs of hunger)
What does “ocras” mean?
“Ocras” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- hunger
- The feeling of needing or wanting food.Also: hungry, starvation, appetite.
2 other meanings: want or craving
- 2want
- A state of poverty or scarcity, especially lack of food.Also: poverty, scarcity, need.
- 3craving
- A strong desire or longing for something.Also: strong desire, longing, hunger.
Other Irish words for hunger: cíocras (greed)
“Ocras” with the article
Here is ocras after the article (an t-alt).
“Ocras” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using ocras, the Irish word for hunger.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Phrases with “ocras”
Hunger in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for hunger?
The Irish for hunger is ocras (pronounced “UK-russ”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean want or craving.
How do you pronounce ocras in Irish?
Ocras is said like “UK-russ” (IPA /ˈokɾˠəsˠ/).
Does ocras have a plural?
No plural form is given for ocras in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does ocras have more than one meaning?
Yes. Ocras can mean hunger, want or craving, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does ocras sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-ocras (the hunger), a hocras (her hunger), a n-ocras (their hunger).
How do I say 'I am hungry' in Irish?
Irish uses 'ar' with the noun: 'Tá ocras orm', literally 'hunger is on me'.
What is the difference between ocras and gorta?
'Ocras' is hunger felt by a person, while 'gorta' means famine, as in 'An Gorta Mór'.
