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Lovableness in Irish (Geanúlacht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘geanúlacht’ also means: loveliness · decency

The Irish for lovableness is geanúlacht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “lovableness” in Irish

Irish:
geanúlacht
English:
lovableness, loveliness, decency
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“GYAN-oo-lukht”  /ˈɟanˠuːl̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
geanúlachta, na geanúlachta (e.g. duine lán geanúlachta, a person full of charm)

What does “geanúlacht” mean?

“Geanúlacht” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

lovableness
The quality of being lovable, likeable or endearing.Also: amiability, likeableness, endearing quality.
2 other meanings: loveliness or decency
2loveliness
Pleasing attractiveness or comeliness, especially in a person's face or manner.Also: comeliness, attractiveness, charm.
3decency
Kindness and decent, honourable behaviour towards others.Also: kindness, good nature.

“Geanúlacht” with the article

Here is geanúlacht after the article (an t-alt).

an gheanúlacht
the lovableness
Lenition: g becomes gh after an (feminine noun)

“Geanúlacht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using geanúlacht, the Irish word for lovableness.

Bhí geanúlacht ag baint léi ón gcéad lá.
She had a lovable quality from the first day.
Thaitin geanúlacht an linbh le gach duine.
Everyone liked the child's sweetness.
Is iontach an gheanúlacht atá ina gháire.
There's a wonderful charm in his smile.
Labhair sé le geanúlacht faoina sheanmháthair.
He spoke fondly about his grandmother.
Níl geanúlacht ar bith ag baint leis an áit sin.
There's nothing lovely about that place.
Chonaic mé geanúlacht ina súile.
I saw warmth in her eyes.
Is mór an rud an gheanúlacht i gcara.
Kindness is a great thing in a friend.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Lovableness in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for lovableness?

The Irish for lovableness is geanúlacht (pronounced “GYAN-oo-lukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean loveliness or decency.

How do you pronounce geanúlacht in Irish?

Geanúlacht is said like “GYAN-oo-lukht” (IPA /ˈɟanˠuːl̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/).

Does geanúlacht have a plural?

No plural form is given for geanúlacht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does geanúlacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Geanúlacht can mean lovableness, loveliness or decency, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does geanúlacht change to gheanúlacht or ngeanúlacht?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) geanúlacht becomes mo gheanúlacht (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngeanúlacht (eclipsis).

What adjective is geanúlacht formed from?

It comes from geanúil, meaning lovable, decent or comely, which itself is related to gean, affection.

How does geanúlacht differ from áilleacht?

Áilleacht is beauty in general, while geanúlacht suggests an endearing, likeable charm or decency of character.

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