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Paddling in Irish (Lapadaíl): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘lapadaíl’ also means: lapping

The Irish for paddling is lapadaíl, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “paddling” in Irish

Irish:
lapadaíl
English:
paddling, lapping
Word type:
noun (verbal noun)
Gender:
feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“LAP-uh-deel”  /ˈl̪ˠapˠəd̪ˠiːlʲ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
lapadaíola, na lapadaíola (e.g. fuaim na lapadaíola, the sound of the paddling)

What does “lapadaíl” mean?

“Lapadaíl” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

paddling
The act of splashing or paddling about in water, verbal noun of the verb lapadaigh.Also: splashing, wading, dabbling.
1 other meaning: lapping
2lapping
The gentle lapping or splashing sound of water or waves.Also: lap of waves, splash.

“Lapadaíl” with the article

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

an lapadaíl
the paddling
No change after an

“Lapadaíl” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using lapadaíl, the Irish word for paddling.

Bhí a gcosa ag lapadaíl san uisce fionnuar.
Their feet were splashing about in the cool water.
Is breá leis na páistí a bheith ag lapadaíl.
The children love paddling.
Chuala mé lapadaíl na dtonn ar an trá.
I heard the lapping of the waves on the beach.
Bhí na lachain ag lapadaíl sa lochán.
The ducks were dabbling in the pond.
Thug fuaim na lapadaíola suaimhneas dom.
The sound of the lapping water calmed me.
Chuamar ag lapadaíl cois farraige inné.
We went paddling by the sea yesterday.
Ná bí ag lapadaíl sa lathach, a stór.
Don't be splashing about in the mud, love.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Paddling in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for paddling?

The Irish for paddling is lapadaíl (pronounced “LAP-uh-deel”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean lapping.

How do you pronounce lapadaíl in Irish?

Lapadaíl is said like “LAP-uh-deel” (IPA /ˈl̪ˠapˠəd̪ˠiːlʲ/).

Does lapadaíl have a plural?

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

Does lapadaíl have more than one meaning?

Yes. Lapadaíl can mean paddling or lapping, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Is lapadaíl related to lapa?

Yes, it comes from lapa, a paw or flipper, so ag lapadaíl suggests paddling about with your feet or hands in water.

How is lapadaíl usually used?

Mostly with ag as a progressive: bhí siad ag lapadaíl san uisce, they were paddling in the water.

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