HeyRuaHow to say “point” in Irish
- Irish:
- cúilín
- English:
- point, little nook
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KOO-leen” /ˈkuːlʲiːnʲ/
- Plural:
- cúilíní (points)
- Genitive singular:
- cúilín, an chúilín (e.g. luach an chúilín, the value of the point)
- Genitive plural:
- cúilíní, na gcúilíní (e.g. líon na gcúilíní, the number of points)
What does “cúilín” mean?
“Cúilín” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- point
- In hurling and Gaelic football, a score of one point, made by sending the ball over the bar.Also: score, point in hurling, point in football.
“Cúilín” with the article
The plural of point in Irish is cúilíní. Here is cúilín after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Cúilín” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cúilín, the Irish word for point.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Point in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for point?
The Irish for point is cúilín (pronounced “KOO-leen”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is cúilíní. Depending on context it can also mean little nook.
How do you pronounce cúilín in Irish?
Cúilín is said like “KOO-leen” (IPA /ˈkuːlʲiːnʲ/).
What is the plural of point in Irish?
The plural of cúilín is cúilíní; with the article, na cúilíní means “the points”. The genitive plural is cúilíní, as in líon na gcúilíní (the number of points).
Does cúilín have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cúilín can mean point or little nook, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cúilín change to chúilín or gcúilín?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cúilín becomes mo chúilín (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcúilín (eclipsis).
What is the difference between cúl and cúilín in GAA scores?
A cúl is a goal, worth three points, while a cúilín is a point scored over the bar. A score like 2-7 is read 'dhá chúl agus seacht gcúilín'.
