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Prosperity in Irish (Rath): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘rath’ also means: use · grace

The Irish for prosperity is rath, a masculine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “prosperity” in Irish

Irish:
rath
English:
prosperity, use, grace
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“rah”  /ɾˠah/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
ratha, an ratha (e.g. comhartha ratha, a sign of prosperity)

What does “rath” mean?

“Rath” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

prosperity
Success, thriving or good fortune, as when something goes well and flourishes.Also: success, good fortune, luck, thriving.
2 other meanings: use or grace
2use
Benefit or usefulness that comes from something.Also: benefit, usefulness, good.
3grace
Blessing or bounty, especially God's favour.Also: blessing, bounty.

Other Irish words for prosperity: bail (prosperity), rathúnas (prosperity)

“Rath” with the article

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

an rath
the prosperity
No change after an

“Rath” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using rath, the Irish word for prosperity.

Go n-éirí an t-ádh agus an rath leat.
May luck and success be with you.
Bhí rath ar an ngnó ón tús.
The business prospered from the start.
Níl rath ar bith ar an obair sin.
That work is no good at all.
Chuir sé rath ar an bhfeirm.
He made the farm prosper.
Ní raibh rath ar a chuid airgid riamh.
His money never did him any good.
Is comhartha ratha é sin.
That is a sign of prosperity.
Rath Dé ort!
God bless you!

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Prosperity in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for prosperity?

The Irish for prosperity is rath (pronounced “rah”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean use or grace.

How do you pronounce rath in Irish?

Rath is said like “rah” (IPA /ɾˠah/).

Does rath have a plural?

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

Does rath have more than one meaning?

Yes. Rath can mean prosperity, use or grace, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How do you say something prospered using rath?

Use 'bhí rath ar', for example 'Bhí rath ar an ngnó', the business prospered. 'Níl rath air' means it is no good.

Is rath the same as ráth (ring fort)?

No. 'Rath' with a short vowel means prosperity, while 'ráth' with a fada is an ancient ring fort.

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