HeyRuaHow to say “little child” in Irish
- Irish:
- leanbán
- English:
- little child, darling
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “LAN-uh-bawn” /ˈlʲanˠəbˠɑːnˠ/
- Plural:
- leanbáin (little children)
- Genitive singular:
- leanbáin, an leanbáin (e.g. gáire an leanbáin, the little child's laugh)
- Genitive plural:
- leanbán, na leanbán (e.g. éadaí leanbán, little children's clothes)
What does “leanbán” mean?
“Leanbán” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- little child
- A small child or baby, often used affectionately.Also: baby, infant, small child, babe.
1 other meaning: darling
- 2darling
- A term of endearment for a loved child or person.Also: pet, dear.
“Leanbán” with the article
The plural of little child in Irish is leanbáin. Here is leanbán after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Leanbán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using leanbán, the Irish word for little child.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Little child in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for little child?
The Irish for little child is leanbán (pronounced “LAN-uh-bawn”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is leanbáin. Depending on context it can also mean darling.
How do you pronounce leanbán in Irish?
Leanbán is said like “LAN-uh-bawn” (IPA /ˈlʲanˠəbˠɑːnˠ/).
What is the plural of little child in Irish?
The plural of leanbán is leanbáin; with the article, na leanbáin means “the little children”. The genitive plural is leanbán, as in éadaí leanbán (little children's clothes).
Does leanbán have more than one meaning?
Yes. Leanbán can mean little child or darling, depending on context; the first is the most common.
How is 'leanbán' different from 'leanbh'?
'Leanbán' is a diminutive of 'leanbh' (child), so it means a little child and carries an affectionate tone, as in 'a leanbáin' (my darling).
