HeyRuaHow to say “provocation” in Irish
- Irish:
- greannú
- English:
- provocation, ruffling
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- greannaigh, to provoke (ag greannú, provoking)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “GRAN-oo” /ɟɾʲanˠuː/
- Genitive singular:
- greannaithe, an ghreannaithe (e.g. cúis an ghreannaithe, the cause of the provocation)
What does “greannú” mean?
“Greannú” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- provocation
- The act of annoying or provoking someone; it is the verbal noun of the verb 'greannaigh'.Also: irritation, annoyance, provoking, vexation.
1 other meaning: ruffling
- 2ruffling
- The act of ruffling or roughening a surface, such as water or hair.Also: roughening, ruffle.
“Greannú” as a verbal noun
After ag, greannú means provoking: it is the verbal noun of the verb greannaigh (to provoke). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Greannú” with the article
Here is greannú after the article (an t-alt).
“Greannú” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using greannú, the Irish word for provocation.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Provocation in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for provocation?
The Irish for provocation is greannú (pronounced “GRAN-oo”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean ruffling.
How do you pronounce greannú in Irish?
Greannú is said like “GRAN-oo” (IPA /ɟɾʲanˠuː/).
Does greannú have a plural?
No plural form is given for greannú in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does greannú have more than one meaning?
Yes. Greannú can mean provocation or ruffling, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does greannú change to ghreannú or ngreannú?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) greannú becomes mo ghreannú (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngreannú (eclipsis).
Is 'greannú' related to 'greann' (fun)?
They look alike, but 'greannú' means provocation or irritation, not humour; for fun use 'greann' or 'spraoi'.
