HeyRuaHow to say “lapwing” in Irish
- Irish:
- pilibín
- English:
- lapwing, small person
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “PIL-ih-been” /ˈpʲilʲəbʲiːnʲ/
- Plural:
- pilibíní
- Genitive singular:
- pilibín, an philibín (e.g. nead an philibín, the lapwing's nest)
- Genitive plural:
- pilibíní, na bpilibíní (e.g. ealta na bpilibíní, the flock of lapwings)
What does “pilibín” mean?
“Pilibín” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- lapwing
- A wading bird with a crest and greenish-black and white plumage, known for its 'peewit' call.Also: peewit, green plover, plover.
1 other meaning: small person
- 2small person
- A very small or puny person or thing.Also: little thing, puny person.
“Pilibín” with the article
The plural of lapwing in Irish is pilibíní. Here is pilibín after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Pilibín” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using pilibín, the Irish word for lapwing.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Lapwing in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for lapwing?
The Irish for lapwing is pilibín (pronounced “PIL-ih-been”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is pilibíní. Depending on context it can also mean small person.
How do you pronounce pilibín in Irish?
Pilibín is said like “PIL-ih-been” (IPA /ˈpʲilʲəbʲiːnʲ/).
What is the plural of lapwing in Irish?
The plural of pilibín is pilibíní; with the article, it is na pilibíní. The genitive plural is pilibíní, as in ealta na bpilibíní (the flock of lapwings).
Does pilibín have more than one meaning?
Yes. Pilibín can mean lapwing or small person, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does pilibín change to philibín or bpilibín?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) pilibín becomes mo philibín (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bpilibín (eclipsis).
What is the difference between pilibín and feadóg?
Pilibín is the lapwing, while feadóg is the plover; both are wading birds and pilibín is sometimes called a green plover in English.
