Prophecy in Irish (Fáistineacht): Meaning

Q: What is the Irish for prophecy?

The Irish for prophecy is fáistineacht (pronounced “FAWSH-tin-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean divination.

Q: Does fáistineacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Fáistineacht can mean prophecy or divination, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How to say “prophecy” in Irish

Irish:: fáistineacht
English:: prophecy, divination
Word type:: noun
Gender:: feminine
Pronunciation:: “FAWSH-tin-ukht” /ˈfˠaːʃtʲɪnʲəxt̪ˠ/

Various forms

Genitive singular:: fáistineachta, na fáistineachta (e.g. bua na fáistineachta, the gift of prophecy)

What does “fáistineacht” mean?

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

prophecy: A statement or prediction about what will happen in the future, especially one made by a seer or prophet.Also: prediction, prophesying, foretelling.

1 other meaning: divination

2divination: The practice of foretelling the future, for example by fortune-telling.Also: fortune-telling, soothsaying.

“Fáistineacht” with the article

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

an fháistineacht

the prophecy

Lenition: f becomes fh after an (feminine noun)

“Fáistineacht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using fáistineacht, the Irish word for prophecy.

Tháinig an fháistineacht fíor sa deireadh.

The prophecy came true in the end.

Rinne an tseanbhean fáistineacht faoin todhchaí.

The old woman made a prophecy about the future.

Bhí bua na fáistineachta ag an draoi.

The druid had the gift of prophecy.

Ní chreideann sé i bhfáistineacht ar bith.

He doesn't believe in any prophecy.

Tá cáil ar fháistineacht Choilm Cille.

Colm Cille's prophecy is famous.

Luaitear an fháistineacht sin sa scéal.

That prophecy is mentioned in the story.

Is cuid den bhéaloideas í an fháistineacht.

Prophecy is part of the folklore.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

taithíexperience comórtascompetition suísitting suísitting laghadsmallness deartháirbrother

Prophecy in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for prophecy?

The Irish for prophecy is fáistineacht (pronounced “FAWSH-tin-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean divination.

How do you pronounce fáistineacht in Irish?

Fáistineacht is said like “FAWSH-tin-ukht” (IPA /ˈfˠaːʃtʲɪnʲəxt̪ˠ/).

Does fáistineacht have a plural?

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

Does fáistineacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Fáistineacht can mean prophecy or divination, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does fáistineacht change to fháistineacht or bhfáistineacht?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) fáistineacht becomes m'fháistineacht (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bhfáistineacht (eclipsis).

What is the difference between fáistineacht and tairngreacht?

Both mean prophecy; tairngreacht is often used for biblical or religious prophecy, while fáistineacht also covers fortune-telling and divination generally.

Prophecy in Irish (Fáistineacht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage