HeyRuaHow to say “mass” in Irish
- Irish:
- mais
- English:
- mass, lump
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “mash” /mˠaʃ/
- Genitive singular:
- maise, na maise (e.g. lár maise, centre of mass)
What does “mais” mean?
“Mais” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- mass
- In physics, the amount of matter in an object.Also: physical mass, amount of matter.
1 other meaning: lump
- 2lump
- A solid lump or shapeless body of material.Also: mass, bulk.
Other Irish words for mass: meall (lump)
“Mais” with the article
Here is mais after the article (an t-alt).
“Mais” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using mais, the Irish word for mass.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Mass in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for mass?
The Irish for mass is mais (pronounced “mash”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean lump.
How do you pronounce mais in Irish?
Mais is said like “mash” (IPA /mˠaʃ/).
Does mais have a plural?
No plural form is given for mais in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does mais have more than one meaning?
Yes. Mais can mean mass or lump, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does mais change to mhais?
After words like mo (my) and do (your) the first letter is lenited: mo mhais. After ár (our) it stays ár mais, because m does not take eclipsis.
Is 'mais' the same as 'meáchan'?
No. 'Mais' is the amount of matter in an object, while 'meáchan' is weight, the force of gravity on it.
Does 'mais' mean Mass in church?
No. The religious Mass is 'Aifreann'; 'mais' is mass in the physical sense.
