HeyRuaHow to say “key” in Irish
- Irish:
- eochair
- English:
- key, clef
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fifth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “OKH-ir” /ˈɔxəɾʲ/
- Plural:
- eochracha (keys)
- Genitive singular:
- eochrach, na heochrach (e.g. poll na heochrach, the keyhole)
- Genitive plural:
- eochracha, na n-eochracha (e.g. fáinne na n-eochracha, the key ring)
What does “eochair” mean?
“Eochair” has four alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- key
- A shaped piece of metal used to open or close a lock.Also: door key, house key.
3 other meanings: clef
- 2key
- Something that explains or gives the answer to a problem, code or puzzle, or a list explaining symbols on a map.Also: solution, answer key, legend.
- 3clef
- In music, a sign at the start of a stave that shows the pitch of the notes, or the key of a piece.Also: musical key.
- 4key
- A button on a keyboard or a lever on a musical instrument that you press.Also: keyboard key, piano key.
“Eochair” with the article
The plural of key in Irish is eochracha. Here is eochair after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Eochair” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using eochair, the Irish word for key.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Key in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for key?
The Irish for key is eochair (pronounced “OKH-ir”). It’s a feminine noun and the plural is eochracha. Depending on context it can also mean clef.
How do you pronounce eochair in Irish?
Eochair is said like “OKH-ir” (IPA /ˈɔxəɾʲ/).
What is the plural of key in Irish?
The plural of eochair is eochracha; with the article, na heochracha means “the keys”. The genitive plural is eochracha, as in fáinne na n-eochracha (the key ring).
Does eochair have more than one meaning?
Yes. Eochair can mean key or clef, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does eochair sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an eochair (the key), a heochair (her key), a n-eochair (their key), na heochracha (the keys).
How do I say 'locked' using eochair?
Say 'faoi ghlas' for locked; 'cuir an eochair sa ghlas' means put the key in the lock.
Can eochair be used figuratively like English 'key'?
Yes, 'eochair an ratha' means the key to success, and 'eochairfhocal' means keyword.
