HeyRuaHow to say “madness” in Irish
- Irish:
- mire
- English:
- madness, quickness, spiritedness
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “MIR-uh” /ˈmʲɪɾʲə/
- Genitive singular:
- mire, na mire (e.g. taom mire, a fit of madness)
What does “mire” mean?
“Mire” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- madness
- A state of frenzy or wild, uncontrolled excitement or insanity.Also: frenzy, mania, insanity.
2 other meanings: quickness or spiritedness
- 2quickness
- Speed or rapidity of movement.Also: rapidity, speed, swiftness.
- 3spiritedness
- Liveliness, ardour or high spirits.Also: ardour, liveliness, fervour.
Other Irish words for madness: buile (madness)
“Mire” with the article
Here is mire after the article (an t-alt).
“Mire” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using mire, the Irish word for madness.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Madness in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for madness?
The Irish for madness is mire (pronounced “MIR-uh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean quickness or spiritedness.
How do you pronounce mire in Irish?
Mire is said like “MIR-uh” (IPA /ˈmʲɪɾʲə/).
Does mire have a plural?
No plural form is given for mire in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does mire have more than one meaning?
Yes. Mire can mean madness, quickness or spiritedness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does mire change to mhire?
After words like mo (my) and do (your) the first letter is lenited: mo mhire. After ár (our) it stays ár mire, because m does not take eclipsis.
How is 'mire' different from 'buile'?
Both mean madness or frenzy; 'buile' is more common in speech (ar buile, furious), while 'mire' often appears in set phrases like 'fear mire' and in literary use.
