HeyRuaHow to say “little stick” in Irish
- Irish:
- cipín
- English:
- little stick, match
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “kip-EEN” /cɪˈpʲiːnʲ/
- Plural:
- cipíní (little sticks)
- Genitive singular:
- cipín, an chipín (e.g. ceann an chipín, the head of the match)
- Genitive plural:
- cipíní, na gcipíní (e.g. bosca na gcipíní, the matchbox)
What does “cipín” mean?
“Cipín” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- little stick
- A small thin piece of wood, such as a twig or a kindling stick.Also: twig, small stick, kindling.
1 other meaning: match
- 2match
- A small stick with a tip that lights when struck, used to make a flame.Also: matchstick.
“Cipín” with the article
The plural of little stick in Irish is cipíní. Here is cipín after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Cipín” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cipín, the Irish word for little stick.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Little stick in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for little stick?
The Irish for little stick is cipín (pronounced “kip-EEN”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is cipíní. Depending on context it can also mean match.
How do you pronounce cipín in Irish?
Cipín is said like “kip-EEN” (IPA /cɪˈpʲiːnʲ/).
What is the plural of little stick in Irish?
The plural of cipín is cipíní; with the article, na cipíní means “the little sticks”. The genitive plural is cipíní, as in bosca na gcipíní (the matchbox).
Does cipín have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cipín can mean little stick or match, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cipín change to chipín or gcipín?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cipín becomes mo chipín (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcipín (eclipsis).
What is the difference between cipín and lasán?
Both can mean a match: cipín (or cipín solais) is very common in speech, while lasán is also widely used and standard.
What does 'ar cipíní' mean?
Bheith ar cipíní means to be on tenterhooks, very anxious or on edge.
