HeyRuaHow to say “licking” in Irish
- Irish:
- líochán
- English:
- licking, flattery
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “LEE-uh-khawn” /ˈlʲiːəxɑːn̪ˠ/
Various forms
- Genitive singular:
- líocháin, an líocháin (e.g. le linn an líocháin, during the licking)
What does “líochán” mean?
“Líochán” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- licking
- The act of licking something with the tongue; it is the verbal noun of the verb 'lígh', to lick.Also: lick, lapping.
1 other meaning: flattery
- 2flattery
- Figuratively, fawning or flattering someone to win favour.Also: fawning, toadying, bootlicking.
“Líochán” with the article
Here is líochán after the article (an t-alt).
an líochán
the licking
No change after an
“Líochán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using líochán, the Irish word for licking.
Bhí an madra ag líochán a lapaí.
The dog was licking its paws.
Thug an madra líochán do m'aghaidh.
The dog gave my face a lick.
Bhí an páiste ag líochán an uachtair reoite.
The child was licking the ice cream.
Ní maith liom an líochán sin ar fad.
I don't like all that licking.
Bíonn sé i gcónaí ag líochán an bhainisteora.
He's always sucking up to the manager.
Ná bí ag líochán do mhéaracha!
Don't be licking your fingers!
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Licking in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for licking?
The Irish for licking is líochán (pronounced “LEE-uh-khawn”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean flattery.
How do you pronounce líochán in Irish?
Líochán is said like “LEE-uh-khawn” (IPA /ˈlʲiːəxɑːn̪ˠ/).
Does líochán have a plural?
No plural form is given for líochán in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does líochán have more than one meaning?
Yes. Líochán can mean licking or flattery, depending on context; the first is the most common.
How do I say 'he is licking' in Irish?
Use the verbal noun with 'ag': 'tá sé ag líochán', for example 'tá sé ag líochán an phláta'.
