HeyRuaHow to say “name” in Irish
- Irish:
- ainm
- English:
- name, noun, reputation
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “AN-im” /ˈanʲəmʲ/
- Plural:
- ainmneacha (names)
- Genitive singular:
- ainm, an ainm (e.g. litriú an ainm, the spelling of the name)
- Genitive plural:
- ainmneacha, na n-ainmneacha (e.g. liosta na n-ainmneacha, the list of names)
What does “ainm” mean?
“Ainm” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- name
- The word or words by which a person, place or thing is known.Also: first name, title.
2 other meanings: noun or reputation
- 2noun
- In grammar, a word that names a person, place or thing.Also: substantive.
- 3reputation
- The name or reputation someone has for some quality, good or bad.Also: repute, good name.
Other Irish words for name: ainmnigh (name)
“Ainm” with the article
The plural of name in Irish is ainmneacha. Here is ainm after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Ainm” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using ainm, the Irish word for name.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Phrases with “ainm”
Name in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for name?
The Irish for name is ainm (pronounced “AN-im”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is ainmneacha. Depending on context it can also mean noun or reputation.
How do you pronounce ainm in Irish?
Ainm is said like “AN-im” (IPA /ˈanʲəmʲ/).
What is the plural of name in Irish?
The plural of ainm is ainmneacha; with the article, na hainmneacha means “the names”. The genitive plural is ainmneacha, as in liosta na n-ainmneacha (the list of names).
Does ainm have more than one meaning?
Yes. Ainm can mean name, noun or reputation, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does ainm sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-ainm (the name), a hainm (her name), a n-ainm (their name), na hainmneacha (the names).
How do I say 'my name is' in Irish?
Say 'Máire is ainm dom' or, especially in Ulster and Connacht, 'Máire atá orm'.
What is the difference between 'ainm' and 'sloinne'?
'Ainm' is a name generally, often the first name, while 'sloinne' is specifically the surname.
