HeyRuaHow to say “moth” in Irish
- Irish:
- leamhan
- English:
- moth, elm
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “LYOW-un” /ˈlʲaun̪ˠ/
- Plural:
- leamhain (moths)
- Genitive singular:
- leamhain, an leamhain (e.g. sciatháin an leamhain, the moth's wings)
- Genitive plural:
- leamhan, na leamhan (e.g. plá na leamhan, the plague of moths)
What does “leamhan” mean?
“Leamhan” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- moth
- A winged insect, like a butterfly, that usually flies at night and is drawn to light.Also: clothes moth, night insect.
1 other meaning: elm
- 2elm
- A large broadleaf tree, also called crann leamhain, whose wood was once used for furniture.Also: elm tree.
Other Irish words for moth: féileacán (butterfly)
“Leamhan” with the article
The plural of moth in Irish is leamhain. Here is leamhan after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Leamhan” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using leamhan, the Irish word for moth.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Moth in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for moth?
The Irish for moth is leamhan (pronounced “LYOW-un”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is leamhain. Depending on context it can also mean elm.
How do you pronounce leamhan in Irish?
Leamhan is said like “LYOW-un” (IPA /ˈlʲaun̪ˠ/).
What is the plural of moth in Irish?
The plural of leamhan is leamhain; with the article, na leamhain means “the moths”. The genitive plural is leamhan, as in plá na leamhan (the plague of moths).
Does leamhan have more than one meaning?
Yes. Leamhan can mean moth or elm, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between leamhan and féileacán?
Leamhan is a moth, usually seen at night, while féileacán is a butterfly, seen by day.
